Seniors looking for a peaceful place to retire may find Delaware suits their needs. The state is known for its pristine beaches, mild weather and quaint towns, but even in one of Delaware’s seaside retreats, seniors aren’t far from the action. Major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. are just a short drive away, and there are big city attractions in the state, with shopping, arts and dining easy to find in Wilmington.

Delaware has other attractions besides the miles of shoreline. Almost 20% of the state’s 990,000 residents are aged 65 and older, so there are plenty of services and amenities designed for older adults. The state is also known for being tax-friendly due to a lack of inheritance and sales taxes and generous income tax deductions for retirees. Seniors can find good health care locally,  and some of the country’s best hospitals are within driving distance if complex care is required. 

The cost for independent living communities in Delaware averages $4,348 per month. This guide includes further information about the cost of independent living in the state, how to fund a transition to an independent living community and some of the resources available for seniors in the state.

The Cost of Independent Living in Delaware

Note: Because there are no reliable sources of cost data for Independent Living, we used the 2021 Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey to estimate expenses. We took the cost of Assisted Living in Genworth’s study and subtracted 35% from this amount because Independent Living generally costs 30-40% less than Assisted Living.

Delaware is bordered by Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania: New Jersey is the only state with a higher cost of Independent Living than Delaware, averaging $4,222 per month. Maryland’s average monthly cost of $3,185 is $712 less than Delaware’s and Pennsylvania’s cost is significantly less at $1,232 each month. Nearby, Virginia and West Virginia also have lower costs of Independent Living at $3,413 and $2,704, respectively. The state’s cost is also higher than the national average by $972.

$3897

Delaware

$2925

The United States

$4222

New Jersey

$3185

Virginia

$3185

Maryland

$2704

West Virginia

$2665

Pennsylvania

The average cost of Independent Living in Delaware’s capital is higher than the state average, but only by $50. Compared to the capital cities in adjacent states, Dover is $809 a month more expensive than Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, but $1,347 less expensive than Trenton, New Jersey. Cost data wasn’t available for Maryland’s capital, but the cost of Independent Living in its most populous city Baltimore is lower than Dover’s by $859.

$3947

Dover

$3088

Baltimore, Maryland

$3138

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

$5294

Trenton, New Jersey

Independent Living is only one type of senior living community and generally offers little to no hands-on care. For those needing some help, Assisted Living in Delaware averages $5,995. Seniors needing extensive care can expect to pay $12,273 for a semiprivate room or $12,577 for a private room in a Nursing Home Care facility. Delaware seniors can also opt to receive care in their own homes with In-Home Care and Home Health Care averaging $5,339 per month. Finally, seniors who need nonresidential care will find Adult Day Health Care options in Delaware at around $1,661 per month.

$3897

Independent Living

$5995

Assisted Living

$1661

Adult Day Health Care

$5339

In-Home Care

$5339

Home Health Care

$12273

Nursing Home Care (semiprivate room)

$12577

Nursing Home Care (private room)

Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Delaware?

Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in Delaware.

Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.

Paying for Independent Living in Delaware

There are many ways for seniors to fund a move into an independent living community. For older adults who are downsizing, the proceeds of the sale of their homes can be used for independent living. Homeowners can also rent out their existing homes or take out a reverse mortgage to help fund the transition. Seniors may be able to use their existing income to cover monthly expenses as housing, transportation and meals are often included. Our independent living page has more information about paying for independent living.

Independent Living Resources in Delaware

Independent living communities are designed for people who can still live independently, but it’s still good to know that support is available when it’s needed. Below is a selection of resources available to help people in Delaware as they age.

Resource
Contact
Service
1-800-223-9075
The Division on Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities helps coordinate long-term services and support and is the state’s Area Agency on Aging. In addition to analyzing data to help assess future needs, DSAAPD advocates for seniors, implements health promotion programs and operates or contracts a range of services for older adults, such as adult protective services, respite care and long-term care options counseling. 
1-800-223-9074
The Delaware ADRC is the state’s access point for information about the resources available to seniors. In addition to an online database that lists local resources, seniors can call the ADRC for options counseling, referrals and assistance enrolling in different programs. 
1-800-336-9500
A division of the Department of Insurance, the Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau provides free health insurance counseling for anyone who has Medicare. Trained volunteers can help seniors make decisions about insurance plans, supplemental Medigap insurance and prescription drug coverage. DMAB can also assist with billing queries, prescription savings and other questions. Counselors can provide assistance in person or via telephone. 
New Castle County: (800) 870-3284Kent County: (302) 739-6885Sussex County: (302) 856-7946
The Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative helps Delawareans access tools that can help them live independently. DATI allows people to try assistive technology at community events and has resource centers where specialists can help people identify supportive tools. DATI also facilitates an assistive technology exchange where people can access lightly used equipment at wholesale prices and has demonstrations and loan equipment available.
New Castle County: (302) 575-0660Kent County: (302) 674-8500Sussex County: (302) 856-0038
The Elder Law Program provides legal assistance to Delaware residents aged 60 and over. There are no financial eligibility requirements for the program, and the services provided are free. The program provides assistance with a limited range of problems, mainly relating to issues that impact older adults. This includes powers of attorney, advanced health care directives, guardianships and issues with benefits. 
Contact a local center
There are senior centers found in many communities around Delaware. The services provided by these centers vary, but most offer social activities, group outings and fitness classes. Some also have nutrition programs such as home-delivered and congregate meals.

COVID-19 Rules for Independent Living in Delaware

The following information is based on research done on several government websites, including coronavirus.delaware.gov. These rules apply to Independent Living Communities and other types of senior living facilities. We’ve most recently updated this data on 2/3/2022, but since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving pandemic, contact your local senior living facility or Area Agency on Aging for more specific and up-to-date information.

Visitation Policies

Rules for Delaware Communities

Are loved ones allowed to visit to provide emotional support?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are relatives allowed to visit for end-of-life care?

Yes

Are residents required to quarantine after visiting with a loved one?

No

Are visitors required to wear PPE (including masks) in order to visit residents?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are non-medical contractors (such as hairdressers and entertainers) allowed in senior living facilities?

Yes

Are visitors checked for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are visitors required to answer questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?

Yes

Outings & Social Activities

Rules for Delaware Communities

Are residents allowed to leave (errands, visiting family, etc.) for non-medical reasons?

Yes

Are residents who leave required to quarantine when they return?

No (Conditions Apply)

Are senior living communities required to cancel all group outings?

No

Are residents allowed to eat meals together in a common area?

Yes

Are residents allowed to gather in common areas for group activites?

Yes

COVID-19 Safety Measures for Staff and Residents

Rules for Delaware Communities

Are staff members regularly required to do a temperature check?

Yes

Are staff members regularly tested for COVID-19?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are staff members members regularly required to do a health and safety screening, including questions about travel, contact with positive cases, etc?

Yes

Are residents regularly screened for COVID-19 symptoms?

Yes

Are residents regularly checked for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are residents regularly tested for COVID-19?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Find Independent Living Communities in Delaware

Use the tool below to find Independent Living Communities near you – if you’d like to search in a specific city in Delaware, simply put that in the search bar below.

Directory of Independent Living Communities in Wilmington, DE

2014, 2015

Foulk Living

1212 Foulk Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803

Foulk Living was very modern. Overall, it was a beautiful facility. They have 24-hour care, a salon, a courtyard, a lot of different activities for their residents, and free transportation. They had p … (read more)
Foulk Living was very modern. Overall, it was a beautiful facility. They have 24-hour care, a salon, a courtyard, a lot of different activities for their residents, and free transportation. They had p … (read more)

Shipley Living

2723 Shipley Road, Wilmington, DE, 19803

Shipley Manor is a full service rental retirement community located in North Wilmington. Shipley Manor serves seniors in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Care. We are convenien … (read more)
Shipley Manor is a full service rental retirement community located in North Wilmington. Shipley Manor serves seniors in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Care. We are convenien … (read more)

Ivy Gables

2210 Swiss Lane, Wilmington, DE, 19810

Ivy Gables was very nice. The person that I had contact with was lovely and very caring. She wanted to make sure it was the right match for my mom. She went out of her way completely. It’s just like h … (read more)
Ivy Gables was very nice. The person that I had contact with was lovely and very caring. She wanted to make sure it was the right match for my mom. She went out of her way completely. It’s just like h … (read more)

Ingleside Retirement Apartments

1005 North Franklin Street, Wilmington, DE, 19806

Ingleside Homes, Inc., in Wilmington, Delaware offers both independent and assisted living options for seniors. This community is centrally located near Cool Springs Park. Residents rave about the man … (read more)
Ingleside Homes, Inc., in Wilmington, Delaware offers both independent and assisted living options for seniors. This community is centrally located near Cool Springs Park. Residents rave about the man … (read more)

2014, 2016

Forwood Manor

1912 Marsh Road, Wilmington, DE, 19810

Forwood Manor is located in the northern Wilmington suburb of Talleys Corner, approximately six miles north of Wilmington. Residents and their loved ones appreciate the multitude of independent living … (read more)
Forwood Manor is located in the northern Wilmington suburb of Talleys Corner, approximately six miles north of Wilmington. Residents and their loved ones appreciate the multitude of independent living … (read more)

Antonian Highrise

1701 W 10th Street, Wilmington, DE, 19805

Some of the staff is friendly. They require evey visitor to sign in and out and they are very strict about that. Even if you’re only walking your relative in the door. I had one experience where I for … (read more)
Some of the staff is friendly. They require evey visitor to sign in and out and they are very strict about that. Even if you’re only walking your relative in the door. I had one experience where I for … (read more)

Lutheran Senior Services – Lutheran Towers II

1420 N. Franklin street, Wilmington, DE, 19806

Lutheran Senior Services-Luther Towers II, an assisted living community in Wilmington, Delaware, is located near restaurants, shopping and Brandywine Park, home of the Brandywine Zoo and Baynard Stadi … (read more)
Lutheran Senior Services-Luther Towers II, an assisted living community in Wilmington, Delaware, is located near restaurants, shopping and Brandywine Park, home of the Brandywine Zoo and Baynard Stadi … (read more)

Lutheran Senior Services – Luther Towers 1

1201 N. Harrison Street, Wilmington, DE, 19806

Lutheran Seniors Services-Luther Towers I is located in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware, with trolley square and downtown just outside the doors. Residents in the tower are excited by the recent ren … (read more)
Lutheran Seniors Services-Luther Towers I is located in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware, with trolley square and downtown just outside the doors. Residents in the tower are excited by the recent ren … (read more)

Madeline Care Center

4800 Lancaster Pike, Wilmington, DE, 19807


Rodney Court

1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, Wilmington, DE, 19806

Rodney Court looked more like a home than a facility. The rooms were chopped up and the bathroom was small. There was no radiator in the rooms. The staff though were very nice.
Rodney Court looked more like a home than a facility. The rooms were chopped up and the bathroom was small. There was no radiator in the rooms. The staff though were very nice.

Upside Wilmington

900-912 S Market St, Wilmington, DE, 19801


Ivy Creek Gracious Retirement

300 Franklin Drive, Glen Mills, PA, 19342

We visited Ivy Creek Gracious Retirement Living, it was a nice place. Everything is there, the activities, and all the meals are included. The one thing my parents wouldn’t like is that they had to be … (read more)
We visited Ivy Creek Gracious Retirement Living, it was a nice place. Everything is there, the activities, and all the meals are included. The one thing my parents wouldn’t like is that they had to be … (read more)

Churchman Village

4949 Ogletown-Stanton Road, Newark, DE, 19713

We had a good tour of Churchman Village. My questions were answered. The place, the program they had, and everything looked good. The one-bedroom apartment was good. The size was nice. Everything was … (read more)
We had a good tour of Churchman Village. My questions were answered. The place, the program they had, and everything looked good. The one-bedroom apartment was good. The size was nice. Everything was … (read more)

The Residence at Chadd’s Ford

1778 Wilmington Pike, Glen Mills, PA, 19342

The Residence at Chadd’s Ford was lovely. I had a very thorough tour of the three different apartments in the whole building that we were allowed to tour. The chef sent me home with a pie, and it was … (read more)
The Residence at Chadd’s Ford was lovely. I had a very thorough tour of the three different apartments in the whole building that we were allowed to tour. The chef sent me home with a pie, and it was … (read more)

2015

Maris Grove

200 Maris Grove Way, Glen Mills, PA, 19342

Maris Grove was very nice and cozy. You walk in there and it was like stepping into a really big hotel that looked beautiful. They had theaters and different eating areas. The walking areas were nice. … (read more)
Maris Grove was very nice and cozy. You walk in there and it was like stepping into a really big hotel that looked beautiful. They had theaters and different eating areas. The walking areas were nice. … (read more)

The Summit

5850 Limestone Rd, Hockessin, DE, 19707

Located in a residential neighborhood of Hockessin, Delaware, The Summit is just minutes from Mendenhall Village Park and a short drive from Delcastle Recreation Area. According to visitors, this faci … (read more)
Located in a residential neighborhood of Hockessin, Delaware, The Summit is just minutes from Mendenhall Village Park and a short drive from Delcastle Recreation Area. According to visitors, this faci … (read more)

Stonegates

4031 Kennett Pike, Greenville, DE, 19807

My father was in the independent-living part of Stonegates. He’s in their healthcare wing now, and the nursing staff is extremely attentive. If you’re in the independent living, it’s like living in a … (read more)
My father was in the independent-living part of Stonegates. He’s in their healthcare wing now, and the nursing staff is extremely attentive. If you’re in the independent living, it’s like living in a … (read more)

Marydale Retirement Village

135 Jeandell Drive, Newark, DE, 19713

Marydale Retirement Village seemed very welcoming. From what I saw, they appear to help the people in there a lot. They even have a food bank in there. The staff was excellent, very welcoming, and ver … (read more)
Marydale Retirement Village seemed very welcoming. From what I saw, they appear to help the people in there a lot. They even have a food bank in there. The staff was excellent, very welcoming, and ver … (read more)

Park View – Naaman’s Creek

808 Conchester Highway, Boothwyn, PA, 19061

I got my mom into an income-based, independent living apartment complex. It is pretty nice, so we’re all good. It’s called Park View at Naaman’s Creek. They have a community room where they have movie … (read more)
I got my mom into an income-based, independent living apartment complex. It is pretty nice, so we’re all good. It’s called Park View at Naaman’s Creek. They have a community room where they have movie … (read more)

River Club Apartments

7807 Gov. Printz Blvd., Claymont, DE, 19703

I toured the River Club Apartments. It was nice and friendly, a nice environment. The one bedroom I looked at was a little small. She quoted one price and then another price, so that’s what turned me … (read more)
I toured the River Club Apartments. It was nice and friendly, a nice environment. The one bedroom I looked at was a little small. She quoted one price and then another price, so that’s what turned me … (read more)

Independent Living Facilities in Delaware (4)