Caring.com
Caring.com

(800) 558-0653

The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Tacoma, WA for 2024

What you can do with Caring

  • Search the Caring database

    Quickly search the largest online senior living and senior care directory

  • Read reviews and expert guidance

    Read our authentic consumer reviews and content by experts

  • Speak to a Family Advisor for free

    Guided, expert advice to find the best community or agency for you

  • Take a tour to decide yourself

    We’ll help you book tours or get in touch with local agencies

Assisted Living Facilities in Tacoma, Washington

56 Results


Pets AllowedPhysical TherapyPool / Hot TubVeterans Benefits

Filters

56 Results

Sort By

Didn't find what you were looking for?

Caring's Family Advisors are here to help you with questions about senior living and care options.

Call us at (855) 948-3865

1

2

3

What to Consider About Assisted Living in Tacoma

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services provides guidelines and licensing for assisted living facilities through its Aging and Long-Term Support Administration page. The agency ensures all rules and regulations are being adhered to by performing regularly scheduled facility inspections and unannounced visits.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Tacoma

  • As part of the Seattle metropolitan area, Tacoma ranks #1 in the Top 10 America’s Best Cities for a Healthy (and More Affordable) Retirement. The rating is based on access to health care, social and emotional support, outdoor and cultural activities and an overall satisfaction with life.
  • Tacoma’s cost of living is 113.3, which is higher than the national average of 100. However, health care is 83.8 out of 100, which is good news for seniors, as the Seattle metropolitan area is home to many world-renowned hospitals.
  • To offset the higher cost of living, Washington is tax-friendly for retirees and seniors. Social Security benefits are not taxed, and state income taxes do not apply. Other forms of retirement income, such as withdrawals from retirement accounts and public and private pensions, are also not taxed.
  • The climate in Tacoma is pleasant, earning 7.4 out of 10, with summers ranking a 9.3. July’s average high temperature is 77 degrees, while January’s average low is 36.5 degrees. Seniors who battle skin cancer can appreciate Tacoma’s UV index of only 2.6. The UV index measures the intensity of ultraviolet rays from the sun, with levels under 3 being the safest.
  • Tacoma is home to several hospitals, including the St. Joseph Medical Center. However, as part of the Seattle metropolitan area, seniors can access world-class health care at UW Medicine-University of Washington Medical Center and the Swedish Medical Center-First Hill.
  • The AARP overall livability score for Tacoma is 56 out of 100. The city earned a 63 for environmental quality. Water and air quality indicate a community’s health for all residents, especially seniors. According to the ranking, residents in Tacoma are exposed to poor air quality for only 3.3 days per year, and its water is in good standing. 

Paying for Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

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 Tacoma and 60 other cities in Washington.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

Seniors should be prepared for the influence of inflation, as it can significantly escalate the costs associated with senior living. The rate of inflation from 2022 to 2024 is projected to affect cities nationwide. The U.S. average for assisted living care sees a notable increase of 18%, or $4,070 to $4,802, and it's 4% higher than Washington State's price increase of 14% (from $4,156 to $4,743). Where costs in Tacoma balloon from $4,772 to $5,228 in 2023, other cities such as Seattle, Spokane and Everett follow the upward trend, reflecting modest increases of 9.5%, respectively.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Tacoma$4,772$5,228$5,630
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Washington$4,156$4,743$5,051
Seattle$4,300$4,711$5,073
Spokane$4,912$5,381$5,795
Everett$3,663$4,013$4,322

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

While Tacoma averages $5,750 monthly for assisted living, Seattle is $1,000 more expensive, averaging $6,750. Just south of Tacoma, the state capital of Olympia costs much less, averaging $4,805 a month. Further south on the Oregon border, Longview gets a bit more expensive at $5,300. Traveling north of Tacoma near the Canadian border, Mount Vernon averages $5,500 per month.

Tacoma

$5,750

Washington

$6,000

The United States

$4,500

Seattle

$6,750

Olympia

$4,805

Longview

$5,300

Mount Vernon

$5,500

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

While assisted living costs in Tacoma, WA, averages $5,228 per month, the cost of memory care trends much higher at $8,525. Seniors who don't require as much assistance with activities of daily living may consider independent living, which comes in at $2,628 per month. These prices can vary significantly due to the expert medical care, accommodations and amenities on offer, making it essential to compare all prices and care options.

Assisted Living

$5,228

Memory Care

$8,525

Independent Living

$2,628

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Tacoma

Seniors residing in Washington can apply for financial assistance for assisted living through a few Medicaid programs.  The Medicaid Personal Care (MPC) program and the Community First Choice Option (CFCO) provide financial support for personal care assistance and costs other than room and board. Washington also offers seniors Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers including the Washington Medical COPES (Community Options Program Entry System) Waiver for additional funding for assisted living. 

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

Financial Assistance in Washington

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 Washington page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Tacoma,WA

There are many resources in Tacoma,WA 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 Washington 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
Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources800-562-0332Area Agencies on Aging in Washington work with state, federal and local agencies to support the needs of older adults and their caregivers. Seniors can receive short-term and long-term in-home care for medical and nonmedical needs, such as hygiene, memory support, meal delivery, light housekeeping and mobility assistance. Other services include nonemergency medical and nonmedical transportation, adult day service programs, medication monitoring and community involvement options. These programs are designed to help older adults maintain their independence.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

Tacoma 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
Lutheran Community Services Northwest - Tacoma253-722-5686LCS Northwest offers the Senior Companion program, which matches socially isolated seniors with similarly aged volunteers who provide company and opportunities to interact. A similar program, Senior Friends, also has the goal of reducing isolation among older adults living at home. The organization runs a low-cost home-delivered meal service for individuals who cannot obtain groceries or prepare meals on their own, and its Home Care program makes activities, such as shopping and housekeeping, less burdensome for seniors.

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 Tacoma seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Nourish Mobile Food Bank253-383-3164Based out of the campus of Tacoma Community College, the Nourish Mobile Food Bank serves seniors in Tacoma, WA. Every Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., the Pierce County-based food bank provides nonperishable pantry items and canned goods to those struggling to make ends meet. Thanks to the support and service of volunteers, nourishing food is available to any senior. The food bank can be accessed in parking lot F on the Mildred side of campus.
Meals on Wheels - Pierce County253-722-5685Meals on Wheels chapters are located across Washington. These nonprofit organizations prepare and deliver daily and weekly meals. Each meal provides onethird of seniors' daily nutritional requirements. Meals on Wheels also offers wellness and safety checks, and some organizations even deliver pet food and holiday gifts. In Washington, these programs are typically operated at the county level.
Nourish Pierce County Food Bank253-383-3164Nourish Pierce County Food Bank operates six fixed-location and 14 mobile food banks around the county in conjunction with Molina Healthcare, the Puyallup Tribe, Kroger and several public and private entities. More than half of the recipients include households with children and seniors present. No registration or ID requirements are needed to get a food package, but visitors are asked for their name, address and the number of people in the household, along with their birthdates.
Tacoma Farmers Market- Broadway253-272-7077Washington operates several nutrition assistance programs that target seniors, lowincome families and other at-risk groups. Eligibility is typically based on your age, household income and personal needs.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Tacoma 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
Pierce County Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman800-642-5769The Pierce County Long-Term Care Ombudsman provides advocacy to county residents in skilled nursing, assisted living and adult family home facilities. The Ombudsman educates residents and their families about their rights to quality care. When problems regarding care arise, the Ombudsman mediates conversations between residents and their care facilities. The program's staff and volunteers will also investigate complaints about the quality of care residents receive.

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 Tacoma have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Rebuilding Together South Sound - Tacoma253-238-0977Rebuilding Together South Sound works with Tacoma seniors and other homeowners in Pierce County and the cities of Federal Way and Auburn to provide home modifications. Such modifications include safety elements, such as grab bars and entryway ramps, as well as energy-efficient upgrades, including storm windows and roof repair. The organization offers special services and community events that support low-income senior veterans and women. Seniors must meet low-income guidelines and be up-to-date on their mortgage and taxes to be eligible.
Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place Program - Tacoma 253-627-5626Seniors choosing to reside in their own homes can apply for support and assistance from the Washington Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place program. Habitat works with human service organizations to assess residents' individual needs before making essential repairs and modifications to ensure that homes are safe and more accessible. Modifications include installing ramps, raised toilets, lever door handles and railings. It also connects older adults to community resources that can help them maintain their independence.
Weatherization Assistance Program - Pierce County253-593-2336Washington's Weatherization Assistance Program relies on state and federal funding, as well as matching payments from utility companies. It helps with energyefficient upgrades that can lower your utility bills and improve your health and safety, such as installing insulation and sealing air leaks.

Senior Centers

Senior centers in Tacoma 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
Pierce County Community Connections Resource Center855-567-0252CLC is a resource for individuals as they make decisions regarding long-term care. The organization helps older adults, including those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, learn about available services. The organization can also educate individuals regarding both community- and facility-based forms of long-term support.
Lighthouse Activity Center253-426-1282For Tacoma, WA, residents aged 60 and older, Lighthouse Activity Center offers diverse programming and support. Nutritious sit-down lunches are served Thursdays and Fridays, with to-go lunches available Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Seniors can learn about federal, state and county-level benefits and gain access to the resources, services and education they need to enroll. Engaging activities and events include cultural programming, health and wellness activities, recreational options and informational classes on a variety of topics.
Beacon Activity Center253-301-3369Beacon Activity Center offers a variety of programming for Tacoma residents aged 60 and older. It also provides lunches on weekdays, with sit-down meals on Mondays and Tuesdays and to-go lunches on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Meals are available on a first-come, first-served basis and require registration ahead of time. The center also offers lunch deliveries in Tacoma on Wednesdays.
Point Defiance-Ruston Senior Center253-756-0601Facilitated by the Franke Tobey Jones senior living community, the Point Defiance-Ruston Senior Center serves as a gathering place for local seniors. Those aged 55 and up can partake in activities, classes, programs and events designed to help them socialize, learn and be active members of their local community. A hot lunch is available at noon Monday to Thursday for a small suggested donation.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Tacoma 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
Silver Financial Counseling Services - Tacoma253-593-2111Created in 1996 as Senior Outreach Services, Sound Outreach is a nonprofit human services agency that helps seniors in Pierce County achieve financial security. The organization's financial empowerment services teach seniors how to use credit wisely, avoiding predatory lending schemes and fraudulent investment opportunities. Sound Outreach partners with a credit union to help unbanked seniors protect their finances. Through its partnership, the organization offers loan products designed to build seniors' credit scores.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Tacoma 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
Tacoma Social Security Office 98409800-722-1213Social 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 Tacoma 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 Exemption Program - Pierce County253-798-6111The Washington State Department of Revenue offers a property tax exemption, as well as a deferment program, to seniors and disabled adults. This program can reduce your school taxes and freeze your property's assessed value starting the first year that you qualify

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 Tacoma, allowing them to run errands and attend appointments in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Around the Sound Non-Emergency Medical Transportation - Tacoma265-858-7088Around the Sound is a transportation option for seniors with chronic illnesses or mobility issues. Rides may be arranged to nonemergency medical appointments and treatments. The company's fleet of vehicles can accommodate gurneys, wheelchairs, walkers, scooters and other mobility aids. Drivers are also experienced in working with older adults who have dementia or Alzheimer's. Rides are available in Tacoma, WA, as well as Pierce, King, Kitsap, Thurston, Lewis, Clallam, Jefferson, and Mason counties. Fees vary depending on the situation.

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. Tacoma 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) - Pierce County253-572-5557LIHEAP is a federal program that provides one-time payments to help low-income households pay their utility bills and prevent disconnection. It can even help with the cost of heating or cooling repairs, as well as new equipment, in some cases.
Pierce County Energy Assistance Program (EAP)800-562-0336The Pierce County Energy Assistance Program covers the cost of home heating bills for income-eligible seniors. These seniors must live in Pierce County outside the Tacoma, WA, city limits and provide photo ID, proof of address and energy bills. They also must meet income guidelines based on their household size, with their household income not exceeding 150% of the federal poverty level. The program pays energy bills directly to the utility company for eligible applicants.

Veteran's Services

Tacoma 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
Tacoma Vet Center253-565-7038The Tacoma Vet Center is a confidential and free resource center for veterans and their families. Veterans can receive assistance in understanding and filing for federal and state programs, including VA medical and education benefits. They can receive vocational rehabilitation, job training and telehealth visits for an array of mental health issues, including depression, anger, trauma, stress and PTSD. The center also partners with local organizations and community agencies, and it offers veterans referrals to these resources.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Tacoma

Tacoma Assisted Living Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Assisted Living Facilities in Washington are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Washington page for more information about these laws.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Washington

Reviews of Communities Nearby

Assisted Living

Brenda

I visited this facility

Review of Charlton Place

Charlton Place was the only place that would accept my insurance. It was nice. It was very clean. The outside is dated, but the inside is nice. I was shown a model unit. They had it decorated very...

Read more

Assisted Living

Dee

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

Review of The Village Senior Living

Please do not have your loved one stay at The Village Senior Living. And if you have your loved one at this facility, please pay special attention to their care. From 07/28/2023 to 08/29/2023, my...

Read more

Assisted Living

Pam

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

Review of Cogir at the Narrows

Excellent communication and answered all questions and concerns. Staff was very friendly and I would recommend Cogir at the Narrows to anyone looking for retirement or assisted living.

Provider response

Hello Pam! Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for your recommendation! We're so glad we were able to assist you. Thank you again! If we can help you with anything, please let us...

Read more

Helpful Articles

Assisted Living near Tacoma, WA

University PlaceMiltonLakewoodFederal WayGig HarborPuyallup

Other Options in Tacoma, WA

Business Owners

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

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

Our Services

  • Senior Living Directory

  • Senior Care Directory

  • Caregiving Resources

  • Sitemap

  • Terms of Use

  • Privacy Policy


© 2024 Caring, LLC. All rights reserved.