State College is home to the University Park campus of Penn State and more than 40,000 people. Since many of the residents in town are college students, adults aged 65 and older make up only 6.2% of the population. Despite this low number of seniors, State College has many qualities that benefit residents in retirement, including relatively low health care costs, friendly tax policies, clean air and beautiful summer weather.
Seniors in State College who require some assistance with daily activities, such as housekeeping, laundry, grooming and meal preparation, may find assisted living facilities in the area their preferred living option. In addition to room and board and daily assistance, these communities can feature a wide range of amenities, from spas and swimming pools to movie theaters and game rooms. According to Genworth Financial’s Cost of Care Survey for 2020, the average cost for assisted living in State College is $5,340 per month.
Below, families can compare the cost of assisted living in State College with other Pennsylvania cities and other types of senior care in the city. This guide also offers information about local resources that can make life easier for seniors in the community.
Directory of Assisted Living Facilities in State College, PA
150 Farmstead Lane, State College, PA, 16803
Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley is located in State College, Pennsylvania, home to the largest campus of Penn State University. This assisted living and memory care facility offers a variety ameni
… (read more)
Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley is located in State College, Pennsylvania, home to the largest campus of Penn State University. This assisted living and memory care facility offers a variety amenities and residents appreciate that small pets are welcome. Housing options include studios, one-bedroom apartments and companion suites. Family members take comfort in knowing their loved ones can still experience independence while residing at Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley. Residents enjoy activities such as painting and sketching, and they can take in the magnificent view of Mt. Nittany while relaxing outdoors, dine in the bistro or play a game of billiards.
(read less)
Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley is located in State College, Pennsylvania, home to the largest campus of Penn State University. This assisted living and memory care facility offers a variety ameni
… (read more)
Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley is located in State College, Pennsylvania, home to the largest campus of Penn State University. This assisted living and memory care facility offers a variety amenities and residents appreciate that small pets are welcome. Housing options include studios, one-bedroom apartments and companion suites. Family members take comfort in knowing their loved ones can still experience independence while residing at Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley. Residents enjoy activities such as painting and sketching, and they can take in the magnificent view of Mt. Nittany while relaxing outdoors, dine in the bistro or play a game of billiards.
(read less)
1930 Cliffside Drive, State College, PA, 16801
Juniper Village at Brookline is located in State College, Pennsylvania, near shops and a country club. Residents and visitors enjoy spending time around the facility’s beautifully manicured grounds an
… (read more)
Juniper Village at Brookline is located in State College, Pennsylvania, near shops and a country club. Residents and visitors enjoy spending time around the facility’s beautifully manicured grounds and compliment the homey, relaxed atmosphere. The community earns high marks for cleanliness, and residents appreciate the knowledgeable, considerate staff. Juniper Village at Brookline offers a wide variety of activities to help residents stay active, including cooking, gardening, yoga, outings and computer classes. Amenities like cable television, a spa, a library and transportation services ensure that residents get the most out of their time in the community.
(read less)
Juniper Village at Brookline is located in State College, Pennsylvania, near shops and a country club. Residents and visitors enjoy spending time around the facility’s beautifully manicured grounds an
… (read more)
Juniper Village at Brookline is located in State College, Pennsylvania, near shops and a country club. Residents and visitors enjoy spending time around the facility’s beautifully manicured grounds and compliment the homey, relaxed atmosphere. The community earns high marks for cleanliness, and residents appreciate the knowledgeable, considerate staff. Juniper Village at Brookline offers a wide variety of activities to help residents stay active, including cooking, gardening, yoga, outings and computer classes. Amenities like cable television, a spa, a library and transportation services ensure that residents get the most out of their time in the community.
(read less)
121 Havershire Blvd, State College, PA, 16803
Harmony at State College was great. It was very clean. The residents were doing an activity. They seemed very happy there. It was very nice. They had a gym, a movie theater, and an outdoor area for re
… (read more)
Harmony at State College was great. It was very clean. The residents were doing an activity. They seemed very happy there. It was very nice. They had a gym, a movie theater, and an outdoor area for residents. The dining area was very nice. The setup was nice. They had fancy dining room chairs and it was very clean and they had menus that look like you’re at a restaurant. It just wasn’t going to meet the needs that we needed at that time. The staff was very pleasant and knowledgeable about the area.
(read less)
Harmony at State College was great. It was very clean. The residents were doing an activity. They seemed very happy there. It was very nice. They had a gym, a movie theater, and an outdoor area for re
… (read more)
Harmony at State College was great. It was very clean. The residents were doing an activity. They seemed very happy there. It was very nice. They had a gym, a movie theater, and an outdoor area for residents. The dining area was very nice. The setup was nice. They had fancy dining room chairs and it was very clean and they had menus that look like you’re at a restaurant. It just wasn’t going to meet the needs that we needed at that time. The staff was very pleasant and knowledgeable about the area.
(read less)
500 East Marylyn Avenue, State College, PA, 16801
Foxdale Village is located in State College, Pennsylvania, just minutes from Route 322. Residents and their loved ones praise the facility for its gorgeous 21-acre campus, which features landscaped co
… (read more)
Foxdale Village is located in State College, Pennsylvania, just minutes from Route 322. Residents and their loved ones praise the facility for its gorgeous 21-acre campus, which features landscaped courtyards and flower gardens. They commend the community’s spacious dining room as well as its cafe and bistro, all of which serve excellent food. Residents especially love the large amount of amenities available at this facility, including an art studio, a computer room and a library. Foxdale Village also receives many compliments for scheduling game nights, fitness classes, educational lectures, line dances and weekly outings.
(read less)
Foxdale Village is located in State College, Pennsylvania, just minutes from Route 322. Residents and their loved ones praise the facility for its gorgeous 21-acre campus, which features landscaped co
… (read more)
Foxdale Village is located in State College, Pennsylvania, just minutes from Route 322. Residents and their loved ones praise the facility for its gorgeous 21-acre campus, which features landscaped courtyards and flower gardens. They commend the community’s spacious dining room as well as its cafe and bistro, all of which serve excellent food. Residents especially love the large amount of amenities available at this facility, including an art studio, a computer room and a library. Foxdale Village also receives many compliments for scheduling game nights, fitness classes, educational lectures, line dances and weekly outings.
(read less)
610 West Whitehall Drive, State College, PA, 16801
2350 Bernel Road , State College, PA, 16803
The people at Wynwood House are very personable. They have made my father very comfortable and I would recommend them. The staff is very kind and courteous. He enjoys the food and is very pleased with
… (read more)
The people at Wynwood House are very personable. They have made my father very comfortable and I would recommend them. The staff is very kind and courteous. He enjoys the food and is very pleased with the menu selection. They take very good care of him and there seems to be a lot of staff there. They also take care of his medication on time and do his laundry. It’s a brand new place. So, all the furniture is very nice and the size of the room is good. They have activities like some different study groups and an exercise program. We’re very, very pleased with Wynwood House.
(read less)
The people at Wynwood House are very personable. They have made my father very comfortable and I would recommend them. The staff is very kind and courteous. He enjoys the food and is very pleased with
… (read more)
The people at Wynwood House are very personable. They have made my father very comfortable and I would recommend them. The staff is very kind and courteous. He enjoys the food and is very pleased with the menu selection. They take very good care of him and there seems to be a lot of staff there. They also take care of his medication on time and do his laundry. It’s a brand new place. So, all the furniture is very nice and the size of the room is good. They have activities like some different study groups and an exercise program. We’re very, very pleased with Wynwood House.
(read less)
260 Lions Hill Road, State College, PA, 16803
The Village at Penn State Retirement Community, at State College, Pennsylvania, provides assisted living, nursing and continuing care in a bright, spotless environment. Student nurses offer the commun
… (read more)
The Village at Penn State Retirement Community, at State College, Pennsylvania, provides assisted living, nursing and continuing care in a bright, spotless environment. Student nurses offer the community leading-edge knowledge and exemplary care. Between guest speakers giving afternoon presentations and the pool, which is always overseen by a lifeguard, it is no wonder that visitors say it feels more like an upper class gated community than a retirement community. The top-notch fitness center features workout classes and personal training, and there are aerobic classed in the pool. Residents and guests say the food quality is equal to a fine restaurant.
(read less)
The Village at Penn State Retirement Community, at State College, Pennsylvania, provides assisted living, nursing and continuing care in a bright, spotless environment. Student nurses offer the commun
… (read more)
The Village at Penn State Retirement Community, at State College, Pennsylvania, provides assisted living, nursing and continuing care in a bright, spotless environment. Student nurses offer the community leading-edge knowledge and exemplary care. Between guest speakers giving afternoon presentations and the pool, which is always overseen by a lifeguard, it is no wonder that visitors say it feels more like an upper class gated community than a retirement community. The top-notch fitness center features workout classes and personal training, and there are aerobic classed in the pool. Residents and guests say the food quality is equal to a fine restaurant.
(read less)
122 Wynwood Drive, Centre Hall, PA, 16828
Wynwood House of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, is nestled in a quiet residential setting close to scenic farmlands and an abundance of shopping and dining options. Visitors admire the facility’s newer co
… (read more)
Wynwood House of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, is nestled in a quiet residential setting close to scenic farmlands and an abundance of shopping and dining options. Visitors admire the facility’s newer construction and beautiful, clean and modern amenities. Loved ones note the conveniently sized rooms that include new carpet and paint, a television and comfortable furniture. Visitors see that residents are happy in the homey environment, where a kind, caring and attentive staff accommodates their needs. Residents enjoy live musical entertainment, a grassy outdoor area and a great room where they can socialize and engage in activities.
(read less)
Wynwood House of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, is nestled in a quiet residential setting close to scenic farmlands and an abundance of shopping and dining options. Visitors admire the facility’s newer co
… (read more)
Wynwood House of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, is nestled in a quiet residential setting close to scenic farmlands and an abundance of shopping and dining options. Visitors admire the facility’s newer construction and beautiful, clean and modern amenities. Loved ones note the conveniently sized rooms that include new carpet and paint, a television and comfortable furniture. Visitors see that residents are happy in the homey environment, where a kind, caring and attentive staff accommodates their needs. Residents enjoy live musical entertainment, a grassy outdoor area and a great room where they can socialize and engage in activities.
(read less)
200 Rachel Drive, Pleasant Gap, PA, 16823
The Oaks at Pleasant Gap is positioned on a 35-acre plot in Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania, moments away from I-99 and five state forests. Residents enjoy the facilities’ private and semi-private rooms, w
… (read more)
The Oaks at Pleasant Gap is positioned on a 35-acre plot in Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania, moments away from I-99 and five state forests. Residents enjoy the facilities’ private and semi-private rooms, which include handicap-accessibility equipment, individual heating and cooling systems and 24-hour call assistance buttons in bedrooms and bathrooms. Oaks at Pleasant Gap prides itself on enriching the lives of seniors by assisting with daily living activities, providing medical transportation, scheduling appointments and offering three meals a day tailored to specific dietary restrictions. Residents also enjoy attending the weekly spiritual activities.
(read less)
The Oaks at Pleasant Gap is positioned on a 35-acre plot in Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania, moments away from I-99 and five state forests. Residents enjoy the facilities’ private and semi-private rooms, w
… (read more)
The Oaks at Pleasant Gap is positioned on a 35-acre plot in Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania, moments away from I-99 and five state forests. Residents enjoy the facilities’ private and semi-private rooms, which include handicap-accessibility equipment, individual heating and cooling systems and 24-hour call assistance buttons in bedrooms and bathrooms. Oaks at Pleasant Gap prides itself on enriching the lives of seniors by assisting with daily living activities, providing medical transportation, scheduling appointments and offering three meals a day tailored to specific dietary restrictions. Residents also enjoy attending the weekly spiritual activities.
(read less)
294 Discovery Drive, Boalsburg, PA, 16827
My mother was at this facility for over three years, and although she suffered from dementia she was well liked by the other people at the facility. She passed away several weeks ago and neither my si
… (read more)
My mother was at this facility for over three years, and although she suffered from dementia she was well liked by the other people at the facility. She passed away several weeks ago and neither my sister, whom lives in Boalsburg nor myself, whom lives in Phoenix got so much as a sympathy card. No flowers at the funeral. No phone call. Nothing. I read this as no compassion.
(read less)
My mother was at this facility for over three years, and although she suffered from dementia she was well liked by the other people at the facility. She passed away several weeks ago and neither my si
… (read more)
My mother was at this facility for over three years, and although she suffered from dementia she was well liked by the other people at the facility. She passed away several weeks ago and neither my sister, whom lives in Boalsburg nor myself, whom lives in Phoenix got so much as a sympathy card. No flowers at the funeral. No phone call. Nothing. I read this as no compassion.
(read less)
500 Front Street, Milesburg, PA, 16853
Eagle Valley Personal Care Home is located off Route 220 in the cozy city of Milesburg, Pennsylvania, near historic Bellefonte and Penn State University. Residents enjoy the partnership the community
… (read more)
Eagle Valley Personal Care Home is located off Route 220 in the cozy city of Milesburg, Pennsylvania, near historic Bellefonte and Penn State University. Residents enjoy the partnership the community has with Benchmark Therapies Inc., an organization that provides high-quality inpatient and outpatient therapy for acute pain and rehabilitation. The facility has a long list of amenities, including a chapel with weekly spiritual activities, salon services, housekeeping with weekly laundry and linen services and covered patio area. The facility has a large living room area, with seating near a fireplace, to help residents feel more at home.
(read less)
Eagle Valley Personal Care Home is located off Route 220 in the cozy city of Milesburg, Pennsylvania, near historic Bellefonte and Penn State University. Residents enjoy the partnership the community
… (read more)
Eagle Valley Personal Care Home is located off Route 220 in the cozy city of Milesburg, Pennsylvania, near historic Bellefonte and Penn State University. Residents enjoy the partnership the community has with Benchmark Therapies Inc., an organization that provides high-quality inpatient and outpatient therapy for acute pain and rehabilitation. The facility has a long list of amenities, including a chapel with weekly spiritual activities, salon services, housekeeping with weekly laundry and linen services and covered patio area. The facility has a large living room area, with seating near a fireplace, to help residents feel more at home.
(read less)
What to Consider About Assisted Living in State College
Assisted living communities in Pennsylvania, officially known as assisted living residences (ASR), are licensed and regulated by the state’s Department of Human Services. Representatives from the Northeast Regional Office are responsible for overseeing ASRs in State College and the surrounding areas.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in State College
- The overall cost of living in State College is 8% higher than the national average and 15.5% higher than the Pennsylvania median. These higher costs are largely related to housing prices, so seniors who already own their homes or choose to reside in an assisted living community may not be as affected.
- Older adults in State College benefit from some of the most senior-friendly tax policies in the nation. Pennsylvania doesn’t collect tax on any form of retirement income, whether it’s Social Security benefits or private pensions. This can help many seniors pay for assisted living.
- The air quality in State College is considered very healthy. The American Lung Association gives Centre County an A for ozone pollution and a passing grade for annual particle pollution, so seniors can feel comfortable going outdoors knowing the air won’t harm their lungs or worsen respiratory issues.
- The climate in State College is a bit colder and wetter than the national norms. The area gets about 41 inches of rain, 45 inches of snow and 178 sunny days per year. However, summers in State College are very pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 82 degrees in July.
- State College is home to Mount Nittany Medical Center, a hospital that’s high-performing in procedures such as heart surgery and knee replacement. The city’s BestPlaces Health Cost Index is 94, which is six points better than the national average.
- Rates for both property and violent crime in State College are well below the Pennsylvania and United States averages. Families looking for additional peace of mind can find assisted living facilities in the area that have enhanced security features, including controlled access points and video surveillance.
Paying for Assisted Living in State College
The average rate charged by assisted living facilities in State College is $5,340 per month. This is relatively high compared to both the state and national averages, which are $3,955 and $4,300, respectively.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities
State College has one of the highest assisted living costs in Central Pennsylvania at $5,340 per month. Nearby Williamsport has one of the least expensive rates at $3,700, while costs in Altoona are almost as low, at a monthly average of $3,723. In the state capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, the median rate for assisted living is $4,857 per month. The average rate in Chambersburg is slightly less than in State College at $5,215.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Compared to the $5,340 average for assisted living, costs for other types of senior care in State College are both higher and lower. Homemaker services and home health aides costs are $430 less at $4,910 per month. Local cost information isn’t available for adult day health care, but given the statewide average of $1,517, this is likely the least-expensive option in the city. Nursing homes offer the most expensive type of care available. Semiprivate rooms cost an average of $9,673 per month, while private rooms average $10,768.
Assisted Living Facilities
Nursing Home (semiprivate room)
Nursing Home (private room)
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in State College
State College seniors who meet certain eligibility requirements for the Pennsylvania Department of Aging waiver may qualify for financial assistance in order to pay for care within one of the city’s assisted living facilities. In addition, if you receive SSI and need to live in an assisted living facility, the state can pay a supplement to the facility if you qualify.
Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania page.
Free Assisted Living Resources in State College
The following resources can make life easier for older adults in State College who are either currently residing in an assisted living facility or considering their long-term care options.
The Area Agency on Aging that serves seniors in State College administers a range of programs for local residents aged 60 and older. Examples include information and referral services, long-term care ombudsman advocacy and volunteer opportunities. Staff can provide guidance for seniors and their families about Medicare coverage and available financial assistance programs that may help pay for assisted living services.
Adults aged 55 and older in State College can visit the Centre Region Active Adult Center to participate in a variety of healthy activities, including hiking groups, line dancing, tai chi and outings to local events and attractions. The Center serves a nutritious congregate lunch each weekday and also has plenty of indoor activities available. Bingo, canasta, bridge and other games are scheduled regularly. Crafting classes provide an opportunity for seniors to learn new skills or enjoy favorite hobbies.
Senior veterans in State College can contact Centre County Veterans' Affairs office for assistance accessing VA benefits, health care, dental insurance, compensation, grants, home loans and education opportunities. Veterans can make an appointment to get help applying for financial benefits that can be put toward the cost of assisted living, such as VA disability compensation, pensions and Aid and Attendance supplemental payments.
State College residents who are aged 65 and older may qualify for free fares and passes on CATA routes. To get free rides, seniors must apply for a Senior Citizen Transit Identification Card, which they can show to drivers on routes in the area. This program also applies to local transportation services throughout the state of Pennsylvania. CATA also offers the CATARide paratransit service, which is available to qualifying seniors. Rides provided through this service require advance reservations.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in State College
State College-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Pennsylvania are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Pennsylvania page for more information about these laws.
