Chico is in northern central California, roughly 90 minutes north of the state capital Sacramento. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Chico is home to an estimated 102,338 people, with 12.5% of them 65 years of age or over. Its somewhat remote location puts it far from major cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, so Chico’s older residents get the full benefit of California’s exceptionally sunny weather without the downside of the state’s notorious urban congestion and high cost of living.
Seniors who feel prepared to move from independent living situations but don’t need the level of care available from a nursing home may find that assisted living is the best option. Here, seniors can receive support with their day-to-day activities while still retaining as much independence as their health allows. The average monthly cost for residence in a Chico assisted living facility is $5,106.
This guide to assisted living in Chico explores some of the benefits and drawbacks of calling it home and includes a cost comparison between Chico and other California cities. It concludes with a short list of government agencies and nonprofit organizations tasked with supporting the older population in the area.