The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Essex, MD for 2023
Essex is a small unincorporated community just 19 minutes from downtown Baltimore. The city has a population of just over 40,500, with 15% ages 65 and older. With a low cost of living and tax breaks for retirees, the city is an option for seniors looking for an affordable place for assisted living. There are also four distinctive seasons for seniors who enjoy the outdoors.
Assisted living communities provide housing for seniors who need customized levels of medical and personal care. These types of adult living facilities have different types of living spaces, including apartments, individual rooms, homes and shared living quarters. This home-like atmosphere encourages seniors to remain independent for as long as possible. Assisted living communities in Essex cost an average of $5,000 per month, which is comparable to the state average but is slightly more than the national average.
This guide describes assisted living in Essex and provides an overview of the costs of assisted living throughout the state. The guide also covers the other types of care available and a list of free and low-cost resources to seniors in the area.
Directory of Assisted Living Facilities in Essex, MD
Charter Senior Living of Towson
We toured Charter Senior Living of Towson. I liked the person that did the interview, she was wonderful and a very compassionate person. The location was a little too far for me to travel to visit, bu
… (read more)
We toured Charter Senior Living of Towson. I liked the person that did the interview, she was wonderful and a very compassionate person. The location was a little too far for me to travel to visit, but I liked the place and everything it had to offer. They had a variety of doctors available, more than other places did. While most places only have a doctor and a podiatrist, they had many services available. They also had a salon, and they had many different activities to keep the resident busy.
(read less)
We toured Charter Senior Living of Towson. I liked the person that did the interview, she was wonderful and a very compassionate person. The location was a little too far for me to travel to visit, bu
… (read more)
We toured Charter Senior Living of Towson. I liked the person that did the interview, she was wonderful and a very compassionate person. The location was a little too far for me to travel to visit, but I liked the place and everything it had to offer. They had a variety of doctors available, more than other places did. While most places only have a doctor and a podiatrist, they had many services available. They also had a salon, and they had many different activities to keep the resident busy.
(read less)
The Cottages of Perry Hall
When I first began my search for Assisted Living for my dad I placed a call to The Cottages of Perry Hall and got the most pleasant voice on the other end of my phone, the Sales Director Missy. She wa
… (read more)
When I first began my search for Assisted Living for my dad I placed a call to The Cottages of Perry Hall and got the most pleasant voice on the other end of my phone, the Sales Director Missy. She was patient and kind and full of knowledge. I could truly tell that her heart is in her job at The Cottages. She made what was such an overwhelming process to me so much easier. After our conversation I felt a sense of peace and I felt much calmer. I visited The Cottages the next day and Missy was even more pleasant in person. I was able to interact with some residents that came by Missys office and all seemed so very happy to be there. Everyone knows everyone’s name, it is a smaller place but that makes it all the better in my opinion. I would choose The Cottages over and over again. My dad will be moving in next week.
(read less)
When I first began my search for Assisted Living for my dad I placed a call to The Cottages of Perry Hall and got the most pleasant voice on the other end of my phone, the Sales Director Missy. She wa
… (read more)
When I first began my search for Assisted Living for my dad I placed a call to The Cottages of Perry Hall and got the most pleasant voice on the other end of my phone, the Sales Director Missy. She was patient and kind and full of knowledge. I could truly tell that her heart is in her job at The Cottages. She made what was such an overwhelming process to me so much easier. After our conversation I felt a sense of peace and I felt much calmer. I visited The Cottages the next day and Missy was even more pleasant in person. I was able to interact with some residents that came by Missys office and all seemed so very happy to be there. Everyone knows everyone’s name, it is a smaller place but that makes it all the better in my opinion. I would choose The Cottages over and over again. My dad will be moving in next week.
(read less)
College Manor
College Manor was a beautiful facility. There were some very beautiful furniture. I thought it was a really large place. It just didn’t seem to be as well kept as some of the other ones we looked at.
… (read more)
College Manor was a beautiful facility. There were some very beautiful furniture. I thought it was a really large place. It just didn’t seem to be as well kept as some of the other ones we looked at. The staff seemed OK.
(read less)
College Manor was a beautiful facility. There were some very beautiful furniture. I thought it was a really large place. It just didn’t seem to be as well kept as some of the other ones we looked at.
… (read more)
College Manor was a beautiful facility. There were some very beautiful furniture. I thought it was a really large place. It just didn’t seem to be as well kept as some of the other ones we looked at. The staff seemed OK.
(read less)
Angelic Care
I was nervous about finding a place for my mother, but when I found this one, I was so glad I did ! . Not only was my mother well cared for here, but the staff and owner of the facility made me feel v
… (read more)
I was nervous about finding a place for my mother, but when I found this one, I was so glad I did ! . Not only was my mother well cared for here, but the staff and owner of the facility made me feel very welcome . They were also very helpful in keeping me updated on my mom, who I visited frequently and who was in wonderful hands. They host alot of activities , game nights and they even go out some time to keep the residents busy . If you’re looking for a place to call home for a member of your family, I would absolutely recommend this location. Thank you Mrs.Kim !!
(read less)
I was nervous about finding a place for my mother, but when I found this one, I was so glad I did ! . Not only was my mother well cared for here, but the staff and owner of the facility made me feel v
… (read more)
I was nervous about finding a place for my mother, but when I found this one, I was so glad I did ! . Not only was my mother well cared for here, but the staff and owner of the facility made me feel very welcome . They were also very helpful in keeping me updated on my mom, who I visited frequently and who was in wonderful hands. They host alot of activities , game nights and they even go out some time to keep the residents busy . If you’re looking for a place to call home for a member of your family, I would absolutely recommend this location. Thank you Mrs.Kim !!
(read less)
The Woodlands
Woodlands Assisted Living was very clean, very ornate, and very fancy on the inside, as far as the foyer went. It was very nice. The apartment was very clean and small. The good thing was it had its o
… (read more)
Woodlands Assisted Living was very clean, very ornate, and very fancy on the inside, as far as the foyer went. It was very nice. The apartment was very clean and small. The good thing was it had its own bathroom and shower, which was very nice. The staff during the tour was very professional, provided a lot of information, and answered all my questions. The dining area was very nice, very neat, orderly, and very well-managed. They had a salon, a library, and other activities to play.
(read less)
Woodlands Assisted Living was very clean, very ornate, and very fancy on the inside, as far as the foyer went. It was very nice. The apartment was very clean and small. The good thing was it had its o
… (read more)
Woodlands Assisted Living was very clean, very ornate, and very fancy on the inside, as far as the foyer went. It was very nice. The apartment was very clean and small. The good thing was it had its own bathroom and shower, which was very nice. The staff during the tour was very professional, provided a lot of information, and answered all my questions. The dining area was very nice, very neat, orderly, and very well-managed. They had a salon, a library, and other activities to play.
(read less)
Symphony Manor at Roland Park
My brother-in-law was at Symphony Manor for almost 2 years. EVERYDAY he got extraordinary care at every level. This is a place where staff took the time to get to know him (He had had a stroke), found
… (read more)
My brother-in-law was at Symphony Manor for almost 2 years. EVERYDAY he got extraordinary care at every level. This is a place where staff took the time to get to know him (He had had a stroke), found out his needs, and loved him. He made special relationships there and I will forever be grateful for the way that Symphony treated someone I loved.
(read less)
My brother-in-law was at Symphony Manor for almost 2 years. EVERYDAY he got extraordinary care at every level. This is a place where staff took the time to get to know him (He had had a stroke), found
… (read more)
My brother-in-law was at Symphony Manor for almost 2 years. EVERYDAY he got extraordinary care at every level. This is a place where staff took the time to get to know him (He had had a stroke), found out his needs, and loved him. He made special relationships there and I will forever be grateful for the way that Symphony treated someone I loved.
(read less)
Loving Care Assisted Living
Loving Care Assisted Living was great. This is the one that I would like to send my mother to. Jasmine was wonderful. She had a wonderful set-up. My mother enjoyed the people and staff that were there
… (read more)
Loving Care Assisted Living was great. This is the one that I would like to send my mother to. Jasmine was wonderful. She had a wonderful set-up. My mother enjoyed the people and staff that were there, including the residents. She had a great time. I loved it.
Everything is in that one facility. They don’t have it closed off for memory care and assisted living. It was a full assisted living facility. They just had special locks on the doors for wandering, so that they couldn’t get them open. I felt comfortable because my mother wanders.
The staff members were friendly and kind. They were laughing, and they could relate to my mother. They were talking to her, and she was talking to them. It was just a good conversation. Everyone was wonderful.
(read less)
Loving Care Assisted Living was great. This is the one that I would like to send my mother to. Jasmine was wonderful. She had a wonderful set-up. My mother enjoyed the people and staff that were there
… (read more)
Loving Care Assisted Living was great. This is the one that I would like to send my mother to. Jasmine was wonderful. She had a wonderful set-up. My mother enjoyed the people and staff that were there, including the residents. She had a great time. I loved it.
Everything is in that one facility. They don’t have it closed off for memory care and assisted living. It was a full assisted living facility. They just had special locks on the doors for wandering, so that they couldn’t get them open. I felt comfortable because my mother wanders.
The staff members were friendly and kind. They were laughing, and they could relate to my mother. They were talking to her, and she was talking to them. It was just a good conversation. Everyone was wonderful.
(read less)
Lighthouse Senior Living at Hopkins Creek
I toured and it was spacious. They only offered me a studio apartment, which isn’t big enough. The facility looked excellent, and the staff was very informative. They had different types of rooms to o
… (read more)
I toured and it was spacious. They only offered me a studio apartment, which isn’t big enough. The facility looked excellent, and the staff was very informative. They had different types of rooms to offer, but the only one she showed me was a studio. In terms of activities, some people were playing cards. Some people were in the TV room watching TV. They had fruit and snacks available 24 hours a day. The place was very clean. They have a small courtyard. Their exercise equipment is limited. It’s not really in a room-room; it’s like in the hallway. I didn’t try any of the meals. They have a restaurant-style dining area where you sit down, and they’ll take your order, and they’ll bring it to you.
(read less)
I toured and it was spacious. They only offered me a studio apartment, which isn’t big enough. The facility looked excellent, and the staff was very informative. They had different types of rooms to o
… (read more)
I toured and it was spacious. They only offered me a studio apartment, which isn’t big enough. The facility looked excellent, and the staff was very informative. They had different types of rooms to offer, but the only one she showed me was a studio. In terms of activities, some people were playing cards. Some people were in the TV room watching TV. They had fruit and snacks available 24 hours a day. The place was very clean. They have a small courtyard. Their exercise equipment is limited. It’s not really in a room-room; it’s like in the hallway. I didn’t try any of the meals. They have a restaurant-style dining area where you sit down, and they’ll take your order, and they’ll bring it to you.
(read less)
Angel Core Home of Care
I liked the fact that Angel Core Home of Care is small and that they only have five residents. Each person would have their own room, so there won’t be any shared rooms. All three meals a day are prov
… (read more)
I liked the fact that Angel Core Home of Care is small and that they only have five residents. Each person would have their own room, so there won’t be any shared rooms. All three meals a day are provided. They even have a refrigerator for little snacks and a TV in their rooms. So, I was quite impressed with that.
It’s been kept clean. The community room was spacious and they had two sets of dining room tables which would be appropriate for five people. There’s a stairlift for those who live on the second level. There’s a great big yard outside and a porch area. Everything is fenced-in, so no one can wander off.
They go out two days a week to an adult daycare center where they would mingle with other people and do activities. You’re not forced to go, but if they would like to go, it’s available. The lady asked me what my brother liked at the moment, and I said that he was interested in bowling, and they were hoping to restart that program. The people I met there (the person who was cooking the meals and the owner) were very friendly and very knowledgeable about the questions that I would ask.
(read less)
I liked the fact that Angel Core Home of Care is small and that they only have five residents. Each person would have their own room, so there won’t be any shared rooms. All three meals a day are prov
… (read more)
I liked the fact that Angel Core Home of Care is small and that they only have five residents. Each person would have their own room, so there won’t be any shared rooms. All three meals a day are provided. They even have a refrigerator for little snacks and a TV in their rooms. So, I was quite impressed with that.
It’s been kept clean. The community room was spacious and they had two sets of dining room tables which would be appropriate for five people. There’s a stairlift for those who live on the second level. There’s a great big yard outside and a porch area. Everything is fenced-in, so no one can wander off.
They go out two days a week to an adult daycare center where they would mingle with other people and do activities. You’re not forced to go, but if they would like to go, it’s available. The lady asked me what my brother liked at the moment, and I said that he was interested in bowling, and they were hoping to restart that program. The people I met there (the person who was cooking the meals and the owner) were very friendly and very knowledgeable about the questions that I would ask.
(read less)
Optimum Care Homes LLC
My mother has stayed there now for almost a year. Clean environment. Friendly staff. Happy we were able to get her in this place.
My mother has stayed there now for almost a year. Clean environment. Friendly staff. Happy we were able to get her in this place.
Up & About Care
Up & About Care was really clean. The backyard was pretty big, so if they want to do activities there is plenty of space. The only downfall I didn’t like was how far off it was. If a person got on
… (read more)
Up & About Care was really clean. The backyard was pretty big, so if they want to do activities there is plenty of space. The only downfall I didn’t like was how far off it was. If a person got on the bus and they go to meet their loved ones, they’ve got to walk kind of far from the bus to get to the place. The staff was good, they’re really respectful and helpful. They answered any questions I had as far as payments and different things of that nature, so that was really good. The whole house is clean: the room, the living room, the dining room, and kitchen. Everything was clean, including the shower.
(read less)
Up & About Care was really clean. The backyard was pretty big, so if they want to do activities there is plenty of space. The only downfall I didn’t like was how far off it was. If a person got on
… (read more)
Up & About Care was really clean. The backyard was pretty big, so if they want to do activities there is plenty of space. The only downfall I didn’t like was how far off it was. If a person got on the bus and they go to meet their loved ones, they’ve got to walk kind of far from the bus to get to the place. The staff was good, they’re really respectful and helpful. They answered any questions I had as far as payments and different things of that nature, so that was really good. The whole house is clean: the room, the living room, the dining room, and kitchen. Everything was clean, including the shower.
(read less)
Serenity Garden Manor
I went to Serenity Garden Manor and visited the assisted living, but they also provided memory care. I liked everything about it. I liked the neighborhood and how they had things set up. I had no nega
… (read more)
I went to Serenity Garden Manor and visited the assisted living, but they also provided memory care. I liked everything about it. I liked the neighborhood and how they had things set up. I had no negative things to say about the place. It was clean and everyone looked like they had been taken care of. On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, I would give it a 10.
They have a great sitting room with access to the outdoors where they’re able to stretch their legs and get some air. They also have a nice-sized backyard for gatherings and I liked that. They weren’t cooped up in their rooms and doing nothing.
(read less)
I went to Serenity Garden Manor and visited the assisted living, but they also provided memory care. I liked everything about it. I liked the neighborhood and how they had things set up. I had no nega
… (read more)
I went to Serenity Garden Manor and visited the assisted living, but they also provided memory care. I liked everything about it. I liked the neighborhood and how they had things set up. I had no negative things to say about the place. It was clean and everyone looked like they had been taken care of. On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, I would give it a 10.
They have a great sitting room with access to the outdoors where they’re able to stretch their legs and get some air. They also have a nice-sized backyard for gatherings and I liked that. They weren’t cooped up in their rooms and doing nothing.
(read less)
Ebenezer House LLC
We toured Ebenezer House. It was clean and bright. It was kind of tight but roomy enough for the residents. The level of care seemed to be okay. They only had one caretaker there for like eight people
… (read more)
We toured Ebenezer House. It was clean and bright. It was kind of tight but roomy enough for the residents. The level of care seemed to be okay. They only had one caretaker there for like eight people. The staff was very friendly and pleasant. She took me on a tour, and she explained everything. It was a residential home, so there was not too much they can offer in the form of amenities. They had a nice backyard, and they could have a barbecue back there. The bedroom sizes were adequate.
(read less)
We toured Ebenezer House. It was clean and bright. It was kind of tight but roomy enough for the residents. The level of care seemed to be okay. They only had one caretaker there for like eight people
… (read more)
We toured Ebenezer House. It was clean and bright. It was kind of tight but roomy enough for the residents. The level of care seemed to be okay. They only had one caretaker there for like eight people. The staff was very friendly and pleasant. She took me on a tour, and she explained everything. It was a residential home, so there was not too much they can offer in the form of amenities. They had a nice backyard, and they could have a barbecue back there. The bedroom sizes were adequate.
(read less)
See Pricing for
is a Caring Star Community
Earning a Caring Star means this community is among the best Senior Living commuities in America.
What to Consider About Assisted Living in Essex
Assisted living in Maryland is regulated by the Office of Health Care Quality, which is a division of the Maryland Department of Health. These regulations cover everything from the levels of care to staffing.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Essex
- Essex is an affordable city in Maryland with a cost of living that is lower than the national average and the state average. Seniors can expect to pay less than the national average for groceries and healthcare.
- Summers in Essex are hot with July highs around 89 degrees, but with 210 sunny days per year, Essex provides plenty of opportunities for exploring the outdoors. The city gets around 15 inches of snow each year, which is ideal for seniors who appreciate colder temperatures as well.
- Seniors living in Essex can keep more of their money in comparison to other states because Maryland is moderately tax-friendly towards retirees. The state doesn’t tax social security income and withdrawals from retirement accounts are only partially taxed. Public pension is also only partially taxed.
- Seniors who need transportation services in Essex can use Connect-A-Ride (CAR) for medical appointments, errands and other outings. The service links seniors with public, private and volunteer services. It is funded by the Montgomery County Government and is available Monday through Friday.
- For illness and injury, there are several hospitals in the Essex area. These facilities include MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and the Baltimore Medical System.
Paying for Assisted Living in Essex
At $5,000 per month, assisted living in Essex is the same as the state average. It’s $700 more than the national average of $4,300.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities
According to Genworth’s 2020 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Cumberland is $4,665 per month and in Hagerstown, seniors pay around $4,500, $500 less than Essex. Salisbury is one of the more expensive cities for assisted living at $5,500 per month — $500 more than Essex.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Assisted living is just one type of long-term care option for seniors in Essex. Adult day health is the least expensive option, at $1,896, for seniors who need supervision during the day. Homemaker services at $4,671 and home health care at $4,957 are ideal for those who prefer to age in place. A nursing home is the most expensive option for those who need round-the-clock care. A semiprivate room costs around $11,984 per month and a private room costs around $12,805.
Note: Care cost data for Essex was not available, so data for the closest city, Baltimore, was used instead.
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Essex
Seniors in Maryland who are eligible for Social Security payments, or would be except for their income, may be able to access financial assistance through the Optional State Supplement (OSS). Residents of small assisted living facilities may also be able to get help from the state’s Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidy.
Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Maryland page.
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 Maryland page.
Free Assisted Living Resources in Essex
Essex has many different resources to offer seniors in the area. These services range from low-cost help to free resources and benefits that focus on health and well-being.
Resource
Contact
Service
(410) 887-0267
The Essex Senior Center serves seniors in Baltimore County. It provides a safe and secure environment for recreational activities like games and parties and fitness and health activities, including exercise classes. The center offers arts and crafts, social groups, dances and scheduled outings.
(410) 887-2594
MAP helps seniors get information, referrals and options counseling for services and benefits. The group also provides brochures and booklets on a variety of topics involving aging, guest speakers for community organizations, information and assistance for loved ones and helps seniors obtain loans for medical equipment. It can also help low-income individuals obtain financial benefits to pay for care.
(410) 887-2594
The Baltimore County Department of Aging serves as the Area Agency on Aging. It provides program information and services for older adults and their caregivers. Through the Department of Aging, seniors have access to available services, including mobility assistance programs, meal plans, help with housing, individual counseling, respite care and supplemental services.
(866) 635-2948
Maryland Legal Aid helps seniors by offering free limited legal services by phone and in person. Help involves topics like debt collection, elder abuse, landlord/tenant information and other civil matters.
(410) 260-3838
The Baltimore Department of Veterans Affairs helps prior military obtain and identify available services and benefits. Once benefit, the aid and attendance benefit helps veterans pay for home and community-based services in long-term care. The agency can also assist with housing, medical care and counseling.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Essex
Essex-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Maryland are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Maryland page for more information about these laws.
