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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Fort Lauderdale, FL for 2024

Fort Lauderdale has lots to offer to its older population and has been a popular retirement spot for decades. Seniors aged 65 and older make up a significant 18.1% of the city’s nearly 182,000 residents. Fort Lauderdale’s ideal year-round weather complements the many senior-friendly activities in this lovely coastal city just down the road from Miami. Florida’s tax-friendliness makes Fort Lauderdale an affordable option for seniors, including those interested in assisted living.

Aging adults needing help with daily activities, including personal care but minimal nursing care, may find assisted living an ideal solution. Assisted living also provides many opportunities for socialization seniors might not get living alone. Expect to pay an average cost of $4,385 for assisted living in Fort Lauderdale, which is slightly higher than the state average but just under the national average. 

This guide provides an overview of assisted living in Fort Lauderdale, including cost comparisons with nearby cities and alternate senior care options. It also lists some benefits and drawbacks of retiring in Fort Lauderdale and provides details on free resources for aging-related assistance in the city. 

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Assisted Living Facilities in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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What to Consider About Assisted Living in Fort Lauderdale

The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration’s Division of Health Care Policy and Oversight protects citizens of Fort Lauderdale and the entire state through oversight of health care providers. It licenses and/or certifies and regulates 40 different types of health care providers, including assisted living communities. The Delray Beach Field Office performs on-site surveys in Fort Lauderdale.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Fort Lauderdale

  • Although Fort Lauderdale’s cost of living is more than 18% higher than the national average, retirees in Florida benefit from living in a tax-friendly state that doesn’t collect income taxes. Seniors collecting Social Security benefits or retirement income from any source can keep more of their money because they won’t owe any state income taxes.
  • Sales taxes are also relatively low in Florida because the state doesn’t allow cities or counties to collect local sales taxes. Thus, Fort Lauderdale’s combined sales tax equals the state tax of 6%. Furthermore, essential items seniors might regularly need, including groceries and prescription and non-prescription medications, are tax-exempt. Fort Lauderdale’s sales tax is lower than 91.5% of other cities and counties in Florida.
  • Seniors may not enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s humidity, but the city’s overall climate is comfortable year-round. Temperatures rarely rise above 90 degrees in the hottest summer month or fall below freezing in the winter. It doesn’t get any snow that could cause slip hazards and boasts 246 sunny days each year, more than the national average of 205 days.
  • Fort Lauderdale joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network in 2017 to do more for its older population. The city collaborates with the Aging Council and various community groups to plan programs and events for seniors and improve ADA accessibility in public spaces and parks to make it easier for aging adults to enjoy these facilities. Currently, the city’s overall Livability Index Score is 51, one point above the national average.
  • Seniors in Fort Lauderdale have access to numerous top hospitals in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area, including Holy Cross Health in Fort Lauderdale. This general medical and surgical hospital ranked No. 8 in Miami-Fort Lauderdale and high-performing in treating heart attack, heart failure, diabetes, stroke, kidney failure, hip and knee replacement and COPD. Other health care facilities in Fort Lauderdale include Broward Health Medical Center and Broward Health Imperial Point.
  • Although Fort Lauderdale’s cost of living is more than 18% higher than the national average, retirees in Florida benefit from living in a tax-friendly state that doesn’t collect income taxes. Seniors collecting Social Security benefits or retirement income from any source can keep more of their money because they won’t owe any state income taxes.
  • Sales taxes are also relatively low in Florida because the state doesn’t allow cities or counties to collect local sales taxes. Thus, Fort Lauderdale’s combined sales tax equals the state tax of 6%. Furthermore, essential items seniors might regularly need, including groceries and prescription and non-prescription medications, are tax-exempt. Fort Lauderdale’s sales tax is lower than 91.5% of other cities and counties in Florida.
  • Seniors may not enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s humidity, but the city’s overall climate is comfortable year-round. Temperatures rarely rise above 90 degrees in the hottest summer month or fall below freezing in the winter. It doesn’t get any snow that could cause slip hazards and boasts 246 sunny days each year, more than the national average of 205 days.
  • Fort Lauderdale joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network in 2017 to do more for its older population. The city collaborates with the Aging Council and various community groups to plan programs and events for seniors and improve ADA accessibility in public spaces and parks to make it easier for aging adults to enjoy these facilities. Currently, the city’s overall Livability Index Score is 51, one point above the national average.
  • Seniors in Fort Lauderdale have access to numerous top hospitals in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area, including Holy Cross Health in Fort Lauderdale. This general medical and surgical hospital ranked No. 8 in Miami-Fort Lauderdale and high-performing in treating heart attack, heart failure, diabetes, stroke, kidney failure, hip and knee replacement and COPD. Other health care facilities in Fort Lauderdale include Broward Health Medical Center and Broward Health Imperial Point.

Paying for Assisted Living in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Assisted Living costs in Fort Lauderdale start around $4,140 per month on average, while the nationwide average cost of assisted living is $4,000 per month, according to the latest figures from Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey.

It’s important to note that assisted living rates in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding suburbs can vary widely based on factors such as location, the level of care needed, apartment size and the types of amenities offered at each community.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Inflation has dramatically increased assisted living expenses in Fort Lauderdale by nearly 9.6% from $6,350 to $6,957 over the 2022-2023 period. However, costs are projected to increase 7.7% from current prices in 2024. Also, the state average may experience a 9.1% increase (from $4,067 to $4,802), while the national average is expected to jump approximately 7.6% in 2024. Most popular cities in Florida are significantly more affordable than Fort Lauderdale but have experienced similar inflationary pressure. Between 2022-2024, assisted living prices may see an increase of approximately 18% in Miami, Orlando and Tampa.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Fort Lauderdale$6,350$6,957$7,492
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Florida$3,727$4,067$4,438
Miami$2,168$2,375$2,558
Tampa$3,259$3,571$3,846
Orlando$4,185$4,585$4,938

Cities in Florida

Fort Lauderdale

$4,140

US

$4,000

Plantation

$3,857

Davie

$3,765

Lauderhill

$3,715

Lauderdale Lakes

$3,500

Hollywood

$3,024

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior care in Fort Lauderdale varies due to many factors, such as staffing, accommodation sizing and services offered. Assisted living often provides many amenities and daily assistance from staff, leading to a high monthly cost of $6,957, compared to just $3,903 for independent living. Memory care averages $7,646, typically due to the need for specialized training and a higher staff-to-resident ratio.

Assisted Living

$6,957

Memory Care

$7,646

Independent Living

$3,903

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale seniors who meet income guidelines may apply for special government-funded programs that can help them cover the cost of assisted living. Currently, there are three programs available, including Florida's 1915(b) Managed Long-Term Care programMedicaid Assistive Care Services and Supplemental Security Income

Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Florida page.

Financial Assistance in Florida

More Ways to Pay for Assisted Living

While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:

  • Veterans Benefits
  • Life Insurance Policy
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgage

For more information about different ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in Florida page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Fort Lauderdale,FL

There are many resources in Fort Lauderdale,FL that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.

For information about statewide resources and those in nearby cities, go to Caring’s Florida state page.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Fort Lauderdale seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Mission for God's Disciples Food Pantry954-244-6381Mission for God's Disciples is a food pantry operating in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The pantry is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, allowing needy individuals in the community to shop for fresh, canned and boxed food items.
Pantry of Broward954-358-1481Food-insecure seniors in Broward County can receive food assistance from the Pantry of Broward, located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The pantry serves low-income seniors aged 60 and up and grandparents of any age raising grandchildren. Food distribution includes a monthly food box of perishable and nonperishable items. In addition, the organization helps patrons of the food bank apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and other services.

Free Used Medical Equipment

Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Fort Lauderdale collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Online Loan Locker Donation Center888-722-6400The Center for Independent Living of Broward helps promote independence and mobility with an Online Loan Locker Donation Center with durable medical equipment. Items offered include standard, motorized and travel wheelchairs, canes and walkers. Reachers, shower benches and home automation systems may be available as well.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Fort Lauderdale seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Legal Aid Service of Broward County954-765-8950Low-income seniors who need legal help may receive free or low-cost services through the Legal Aid Service of Broward County. Some options may include assistance with fair housing or bankruptcies in addition to special projects. Services are offered on a sliding scale and income limits may apply.

Home Repair and Modifications

Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Fort Lauderdale have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Rebuilding Together - Broward County954-772-9945Rebuilding Together Broward offers critical repair services to help seniors improve the comfort and safety of their homes. Services include gap and crack sealing, fixes to kitchens and bathrooms, and the installation of handrails, ramps and grab bars, among others.

Senior Centers

Senior centers in Fort Lauderdale bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Poitier Williams Senior Center954-714-3500Poitier Williams Senior Center in Fort Lauderdale, FL, offers a wide range of classes, events and trips for local older adults ages 60+. It's open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with programming scheduled daily. There are arts and crafts activities, wellness programs, recreational activities, social events, luncheon outings and trips to local attractions. Transportation is provided to and from the center, and a noontime nutritional program and health support services are available.
Tamarac Senior Center954-694-1100Tamarac Senior Center supports the well-being of local elderly residents through a full schedule of activities and events. Trained and licensed staff members help create a welcoming atmosphere and provide free transportation to and from the center. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are served daily. Programming includes Zumba, meditation, stretching and exercise classes to keep seniors active, plus games such as dominoes, bingo and arts and crafts to express their creativity. There's also a full-service beauty salon on-site.
The Volen Center561-395-8920The Volen Center is a nonprofit community center that offers a variety of free and low-cost programs to help seniors stay active, healthy and engaged in the community. The center administers two emergency aid programs for low-income seniors who need help covering food, medical and housing costs, and care managers are available to assist with long-term care planning. There are also adult day care and low-cost lunch programs and caregiver support groups.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Fort Lauderdale help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Broward County Elderly Services954-831-4000Set in the "Venice of America," Broward County Senior Services provides care services to adults 60 years of age and older throughout Fort Lauderdale, FL. Broward County Senior Services specializes in personal and respite care, emergency alert response and adult day care. Caregivers are available to assist with personal hygiene, dressing, bathing, meal preparation and light housekeeping. A sliding scale copayment is determined by income, and services may be covered by Medicaid or Long-Term Care Insurance.
Holy Cross Health Alzheimer's Support Group954-491-2499On the first and third Saturdays of each month at 10 a.m., families and caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's meet at the Holy Cross Zachariah Family Pavilion's multipurpose room at the Holy Cross Hospital. This gives families a chance to connect and receive the support they need. It can also serve as a sounding board to learn about services available to senior loved ones.
Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Meeting888-740-6834On the first Wednesday of each month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., caregivers for seniors with Alzheimer's meet at the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale for a support group. Alzheimer's Caregiver Support also provides counseling and respite help for individuals and families who are affected by dementia. Telephone help is available for those who need it.
Elderly Tech Classes954-484-7117Operated by the South Florida Institute on Aging, the SoFia Tech program helps elderly adults learn how to use technology to keep in better contact with loved ones and reduce social isolation. Free virtual tech classes start from the beginner level with no previous experience necessary.
Alzheimer's Association Southeast Florida Chapter - Fort Lauderdale800-272-3900The Southeast Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association supports those impacted by dementia through educational programs, support groups and caregiver resources. The organization operates a 24/7 helpline that seniors, families and caregivers can call for free, confidential support from specialists and highly-trained clinicians. In Florida, the Alzheimer's Association also operates a statewide outreach initiative known as Brain Bus, which helps raise awareness about dementia.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Fort Lauderdale help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Fort Lauderdale Social Security Office 33309800-772-1213Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working.

Tax Assistance

Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Fort Lauderdale resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Property Tax Benefits - Broward County Property Appraiser954-357-6830Floridians aged 65+ can get an additional homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The real estate must have a just value of no more than $250,000 and be the applicant's permanent residence for a minimum of 25 years.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Fort Lauderdale retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Fort Lauderdale954-357-5025The federally-funded program contributes towards energy costs for residents on low incomes up to three times per year (depending on monies available). The local program provider pays the utility company directly.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Florida are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Florida page for more information about these laws.

Laws and Regulations in Florida

Reviews of Communities Nearby

Assisted Living

Sus

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of The Meridian at Waterways

A member of my family lives at Meridian. The apartments are well designed and convenient to all parts of the service space. It is clean and well maintained with a friendly and helpful staff....

Provider response

Thank you for your review!

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Assisted Living

Reviewer#AT0104

I visited this facility

Review of The Meridian at Waterways

I went to The Meridian at Waterways. Because the land that they built on was so small, everything was small. The rooms as well as the hallways are small. It has a beautiful view of the Intracoastal...

Provider response

Thank you so much for your review!

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Assisted Living

Denis

I visited this facility

Review of Belmont Village Fort Lauderdale

Belmont Village Fort Lauderdale was beautiful because it's relatively new and it was high-end. I met a couple of staff and they were knowledgeable, friendly, and very good. This facility was...

Provider response

Thank you for taking the time to leave such a kind and detailed review of your visit. If you have any unanswered questions after your visit, please reach out to our Community Relations team.

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Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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