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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Columbus, OH for 2024

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Assisted Living Facilities in Columbus, Ohio

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What to Consider About Assisted Living in Columbus

Assisted living residences in Columbus are called residential care facilities. They are licensed and regulated by the Ohio Department of Health, Bureau of Regulatory Operations, in accordance with RCF administrative rules. ODH regularly performs inspections and surveys on these RCFs at least once every 9 to 15-month cycle for periodic comprehensive evaluations and investigation of complaints.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Columbus

  • Age-Friendly Columbus is Ohio’s second city to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities and is leading the initiatives in improving the quality of life of seniors as Central Ohio’s 65+ population is expected to double by 2050.
  • Columbus has an abundance of health care facilities, including high-performing hospitals under the Ohio State University, OhioHealth and Mount Carmel health systems. The OSU Wexner Medical Center is the city’s top hospital and is nationally ranked in nine specialties, including its comprehensive care programs under the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute.
  • The overall cost of living in Columbus is 14.5% below the national average, largely driven by affordable property prices and below-average health care costs. Together, with moderately senior-friendly Ohio tax rates with an exemption on Social Security income, the city’s general affordability can help older Columbusites augment their budget for long-term care.
  • As a culturally and economically diverse college town, Ohio’s capital keeps seniors entertained year-round with visual and performing arts, numerous festivals and professional and collegiate sports. The Columbus Museum of Art and Wexner Center for the Arts offer free public admissions on Sundays, senior discounts on regular days and free admission to veterans and their families. There’s also no shortage of live theatre venues for Broadway shows, concerts, comedy and dance performances.
  • The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) runs metro-wide fixed-route bus services free for adults with ADA cards and at half-price fares for seniors 65+, veterans and Medicare cardholders. The city’s average daily commute time of 21.6 minutes is nearly 5 minutes below the U.S. average.
  • Compared to most Midwestern cities, Columbus has moderate four seasons with snowfall below the national average, as well as warm summers and average rainfall. Outdoor-loving seniors can enjoy accessible paved riverfront trails at the 175-acre Scioto Mile, located downtown and open all year round.

Paying for Assisted Living in Columbus, OH

When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of more than 75,000 senior living providers to provide insight into the average cost of assisted living in Columbus and 105 other cities in Ohio.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Columbus, OH

Assisted living costs in Columbus are projected to increase by nearly 18%, from $4,024 in 2022 to $4,748 in 2024. This is very similar to the U.S. average for assisted living, with Columbus' costs coming in at about 1% lower than the national average. Ohio as a whole is expected to have a more dramatic rise of 28%. Both Cincinnati and Cleveland may also18% rise in assisted living costs over that same time period. Cincinnati went from $3,512 to $4,144, and Cleveland went from $2,659 to $3,137.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Columbus$4,024$4,409$4,748
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Ohio$4,110$4,478$5,268
Cincinnati$3,512$3,848$4,144
Cleveland$2,659$2,913$3,137
Pittsburgh, PA$4,545$4,979$5,362

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

Compared to Ohio’s least and most expensive areas for assisted living, Columbus is on the average side at $4,500, along with Lima at $4,594. Dayton is the Buckeye State’s most expensive city at $5,245, about $750 higher than the state capital. Seniors can save approximately $900 per month when opting for Mansfield, which costs $3,570, or nearby Springfield near Dayton but is affordable at $3,608.

Columbus

$4,500

Ohio

$4,350

The United States

$4,300

Springfield

$3,608

Mansfield

$3,570

Dayton Area

$5,245

Lima

$4,594

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior care in Columbus depends on the type and how much assistance is involved. While assisted living averages $4,409 monthly, memory care and independent living are both lower at $4,190 and $2,945, respectively. Independent living generally costs less because residents don't usually need help with activities of daily living. Other factors, such as a facility's amenities, the apartment layout and what services are provided, can all affect the cost.

Assisted Living

$4,409

Memory Care

$4,190

Independent Living

$2,945

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Columbus

If you need help paying for the costs of assisted living in Columbus, you can apply for one of Ohio’s two financial assistance programs. The Nursing Facility Level of Care Waiver also helps pay for the costs of assisted living. It’s part of the state’s Medicaid program. Also, the state offers supplemental SSI payments for those who qualify for SSI payments from the Social Security Administration. You can apply for both of these through the Lucas County Department of Job and Family Services Office.

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

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Columbus

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 Ohio page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Columbus,OH

There are many resources in Columbus,OH 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 Ohio state page.

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging800-589-7277Ohio's Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) help older adults live independently through a wide range of services that support wellness. They provide assistance with nutritious meals delivered to seniors' homes and work to connect older adults with transportation needs, such as shopping, appointments with health care providers and other errands. Services are also available to help seniors socialize and stay engaged through volunteer opportunities and social events.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

Columbus seniors wishing to remain in their own homes can find financial assistance from several local resources. These programs and organizations help retirees cover the cost of services such as home care, property modifications and utilities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
PASSPORT Medicaid Waiver Program800-589-7277The PASSPORT Waiver gives seniors the opportunity to choose where and how they receive long-term care by providing services in their communities. Covered services include social work, nonmedical transportation, home-delivered meals and personal care.
Home Relief Grant - Columbus800-282-0880The Ohio Home Relief Grant provides qualifying seniors with monetary assistance for utilities or rent. It's available via the Community Action Agency, so residents must contact their local office to apply. A convenient locator on the State of Ohio website allows Ohioans to find the CAA closest to them. Supporting documentation, including proof of income, identification and unpaid bills, is required during the application process.
Ohio Home Care Waiver800-324-8680The Home Care Waiver helps seniors living at home access necessary support and services such as personal care, home maintenance, home-delivered meals and transportation services.

Cash Assistance Programs

Cash assistance programs in Columbus provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Ohio Homeowner Assistance Fund888-362-6432The Homeowner Assistance Fund exists to help homeowners throughout Ohio who've experienced financial hardship as a result of COVID-19 or related economic issues. It provides temporary funding for property taxes, utilities, homeowner association fees and mortgage payments.

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 Columbus seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Broad Street Food Pantry614-221-6552Seniors in need of nonperishable food items, such as dry cereals and oats, pasta and canned foods, as well as other healthy items like fruits, vegetables and dairy products, may be able to obtain them from local food pantries. Food pantries usually operate on a first-come-first-served basis and have their own eligibility requirements so it's usually best to call ahead to determine if food will be available.
Hope Food Pantry614-316-7030Hope Food Pantry, located in Columbus, OH, provides free food to people in need in the local area. A partner of the Mid-Ohio Foodbank, the pantry provides prepackaged grocery bundles to food-insecure seniors and others throughout the community. Food distribution takes place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursdays.
LifeCare Alliance Meals on Wheels614-278-3130Meals on Wheels is a nonprofit organization that runs on the kindness of volunteers and donations from local vendors. Its team works to prepare and deliver hot meals to seniors in their homes, typically five days per week. Volunteers also provide some companionship during deliveries and ensure that seniors are safe.
NNEMAP Food Pantry614-297-0533Seniors in need of nonperishable food items, such as dry cereals and oats, pasta and canned foods, as well as other healthy items like fruits, vegetables and dairy products, may be able to obtain them from local food pantries. Food pantries usually operate on a first-come-first-served basis and have their own eligibility requirements so it's usually best to call ahead to determine if food will be available.
SSCM Food Pantry614-444-1669Seniors in need of nonperishable food items, such as dry cereals and oats, pasta and canned foods, as well as other healthy items like fruits, vegetables and dairy products, may be able to obtain them from local food pantries. Food pantries usually operate on a first-come-first-served basis and have their own eligibility requirements so it's usually best to call ahead to determine if food will be available.
Worthington Resource Pantry614-985-1766The Worthington Resource Pantry distributes food to residents of northern Franklin and southern Delaware Counties. This walk-in food pantry is available to all residents whose income falls below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Pantry hours are Saturdays and Mondays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Wednesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Homebound seniors can designate a proxy shopper to shop for them or request Thursday home delivery services.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Columbus 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 Society of Columbus614-224-8374Low- and moderate-income seniors who need assistance with civil legal matters such as powers of attorney, advance directives and guardianship issues can access free help through the Legal Aid Society of Columbus. Legal Aid employees can arrange to visit clients who are unable to attend in-office meetings due to disability or advanced age.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Columbus 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
Central Ohio Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association800-272-3900The Central Ohio Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association supports seniors living with Alzheimer's and dementia through free support programs, information and referrals. Seniors or family members who want to know more about memory loss conditions or need referrals to local resources can call the toll-free help line. This organization also offers free educational classes on memory loss, resources for long-term care planning and connections with support groups.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Columbus 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
Columbus Social Security Offices800-772-1213Social 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 Columbus 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
Ohio Homestead ExemptionThe Homestead Exemption is available to low-income seniors and those with permanent disabilities. It provides property tax credits, allowing homeowners to exempt up to $25,000 of the value of their homes from local tax.

Transportation Assistance

Assistance is available for seniors unable to access or use private transportation. These community resources help elderly and disabled residents make journeys in and around Columbus, allowing them to run errands and attend appointments in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Central Ohio Transit Authority614-228-1776The COTA is the ADA-compliant regional public transit provider for Central Ohio, and its service areas include Columbus and Westerville. Seniors qualify for discounted fares on all routes, and riders with an ADA card travel for free.

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. Columbus retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)800-282-0880The Home Energy Assistance Program is a one-time benefit that helps low-income households cover the cost of their energy bills when they're at risk of disconnection or eviction due to nonpayment.

Veteran's Services

Columbus retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Columbus, OH Vet Center614-257-5550The Columbus, OH Vet Center provides confidential counseling and support services to veterans without cost. Groups for PTSD and women's trauma recovery help veterans connect, while benefits presentations teach them about VA medical and burial benefits, including which documents to gather and how to file. Workshops and classes are held, along with family and couples counseling and grief and bereavement counseling for those who've suffered recent loss. Mental health therapy helps those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, anger and trauma.
Franklin County Veterans Service Commission614-525-2500The Franklin County Veterans Service Commission helps older veterans and their dependents obtain state and federal benefits and services. While it's not affiliated with the federal Veterans Administration, its staff can help individuals submit and follow up on applications for veterans' and survivors' pensions and Aid and Attendance benefits.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Columbus

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

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Columbus

Frequently Asked Questions

Reviews of Communities Nearby

Assisted Living

Paula

I visited this facility

Review of Brookdale Lakeview Crossing

My sister-in-law will be moving into Brookdale Lakeview Crossing. I like the location and the facility. I like the fact that it was clean. I took a tour of the facility, and I was very satisfied...

Read more

Assisted Living

Jennifer

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

Review of Westerwood

My parents are in Westerwood. The thing I like the most is it's a nonprofit, and it's pretty much one flat price. They don't charge you for every little thing. I know there's someone who comes in...

Read more

Assisted Living

Paula

I visited this facility

Review of Cherry Blossom Senior Living

Cherry Blossom Senior Living was great. It's a newer, high-end facility. The rooms were very nice. Everything there was very nice. The staff members that I encountered were very nice. It was a very...

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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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