The 5 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Joplin, MO for 2023

 

Located in the Four-State Area, Joplin is a vibrant city with over 200 restaurants and many exciting cultural attractions, such as the Joplin Little Theatre. With its boutique shops and convenient public transportation services, the city can be a prime location for seniors to spend their golden years and entertain visiting family members. Approximately 18.1% of Joplin's 52,518 residents are aged 65+.

Many seniors in Joplin live in assisted living communities that provide services, such as personal care, housekeeping, meals and transportation, to help seniors live life to the fullest. While individuals with reduced physical function are most likely to benefit from this type of care, some people also choose assisted living for its social atmosphere to help reduce isolation. Monthly costs for assisted living in Joplin average $2,805, which is relatively cheap compared to the state average of $3,000 and over $1,600 less than the national average.

This guide discusses the benefits and drawbacks of living in Joplin, MO. It also compares assisted living costs with nearby areas and includes free and low-cost resources for further information and support.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services regulates assisted living communities in Joplin. The agency is responsible for ensuring that care meets the legal and ethical standards outlined by the state, and it performs regular inspections to check compliance.

 

• Joplin's low cost of living may help seniors reduce expenses and improve their quality of life. The overall cost is 74.6 on a 100-point index where the national average is 100. Accordingly, local prices are 25.4% lower than many other cities throughout the United States.
• The sales tax rate in Joplin is 8.1%, which is slightly higher than the U.S. average of 7.3%. The income tax rate is 1.3% higher than the national average. However, Joplin's inexpensive assisted living prices and low cost of living can still make it a highly affordable place to retire.
• Crime rates are quite high across Missouri, and Joplin is no exception. Violent crimes are ranked at 30.6 on a 100-point scale, whereas the U.S. average is 22.7. Property crimes are widespread at 95.1 versus 35.4 nationally. Fortunately, many assisted living facilities have camera surveillance and on-site security personnel, so seniors can feel comfortable and safe within their homes. 
• Health care is very accessible in the region as there are 285 physicians per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 210. The city has several local medical centers and hospitals, such as Freeman Hospital East.
• Public transportation options are available throughout Joplin, making it easier for seniors to dine out and run errands. Individuals aged 60+ are eligible for reduced fares that make travel more affordable.
• Joplin's climate makes it a relatively comfortable place throughout the year. The region typically only sees 10 inches of snow a year compared to the national average of 28 inches. It has 211 sunny days a year, somewhat higher than the U.S. average of 205.
• Joplin has hiking trails, public parks, waterfalls and other beautiful outdoor spaces, such as the Wildcat Glade conservation area, providing spots for seniors to exercise and view nature.

 

Assisted living averages $2,805 per month in Joplin depending on the facility's amenities and services.

Rates for assisted living are quite inexpensive throughout Missouri, but the $2,805 average cost in Joplin is still nearly $200 cheaper. It's also highly competitive compared to the national average of $4,500. When comparing prices in nearby locations, Kansas City is one of the most expensive at $4,585. St. Louis is also less affordable than Joplin at $4,100. Columbia has a comparable rate of $2,800, and Jefferson is substantially cheaper at $2,075 per month.

Assisted living is a good fit for many seniors, but individuals who prefer to live at home or need specialized medical care may find other services more suitable. In-home care costs $4,481 for personal aid and housekeeping services similar to assisted living. In contrast, home health care costs the same but provides medical services, such as medication management and wound care. Nursing facilities are the most expensive option at $5,658 but offer 24-hour skilled nursing for frail seniors.

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 Missouri page.