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The 10 Best Independent Living Communities in Seattle, WA for 2024

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Independent Living Facilities in Seattle, Washington

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What to Expect in an Independent Living Community

Many seniors love how independent living communities reduce unwanted stress, hazards, and fatigue in their lives. Independent living communities take care of housekeeping, yard work and meals while still allowing residents personal space and the dignity of making their own choices. These communities usually provide seniors with an apartment that has a small kitchen, bathroom, living room, and one or more bedrooms. Those who want a small space may even find that some independent living communities offer studio-style apartments. Seniors can invite guests over and enjoy their rooms however they see fit.

Independent living communities often also include the following:

  • Numerous opportunities for socializing and exploring new activities
  • Easy access to public or community-provided transportation 
  • Meal plans for community dining as well as kitchens for seniors who like preparing their own meals
  • The ability to keep small- and medium-size pets such as dogs and cats
  • Housekeeping, laundry and groundskeeping services 
  • 24-hour staff on-site who can be contacted if a problem arises

For a more detailed look at common amenities, check out our guide to independent living communities. 

What Couples Should Know About Independent Living in Seattle, WA

Seattle is a large city surrounded by blue and green, with the Puget Sound and Lake Washington surrounding it along with many parks, both big and small, as well as thousands of acres of mountains and nature reserves for active seniors to enjoy. It’s also a cultured city with a great history in the arts and a wide variety of museums, theaters and art exhibits.

The weather in Seattle is pleasant for much of the year, and even in January it’s rare to have more than a couple of days of snow, which is great for seniors who want to get out and see the sights.

Healthcare is relatively affordable in Seattle, with costs 18% below the national average, and utilities are also cheaper by 31%. There is a higher than average number of physicians in the area — roughly 50% more per capita compared to the U.S as a whole.

Paying for Independent Living in Seattle, WA

Independent living communities in Seattle are generally 10% more expensive compared to the United States as a whole. The average monthly cost is $2,850 and the national average is $2,550. The nearby area of Burien is cheaper when compared to both the Seattle and national averages at $2,325.

The annual cost of living in an independent living community can range anywhere from $12,000-$42,000, depending mostly on the amenities, room type and cost of living in the area. In addition to using personal retirement income, annuities, long-term care insurance, or cashing out an existing life insurance policy, some seniors can use Social Security funds, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments granted due to disability or low-income or HUD-provided housing assistance such as vouchers. Another route many seniors choose to fund their independent living stay is renting out or selling their homes that they won’t need once they move or taking advantage of a reverse mortgage. 

Our guide provides a more in-depth look at independent living costs and solutions for those who want to learn more. 

How to Choose an Independent Living Community

When choosing an independent living community, it’s best to consider many factors, including the community’s proximity to loved ones and medical care, the state of repair that the facility appears to be in, the attitude and efficiency of the staff, the cost of both rent and services, the facility’s pet policy and more. 

Comparing multiple communities can help seniors and their families figure out what they value most in an independent living community. During tours of these communities, staff members should be available to answer questions. To help with the touring and comparison process, we’ve included a checklist full of pertinent questions that anyone can download and print for themselves.

Transitioning to Independent Living

Independent living communities, rather than memory care or nursing homes, are often the first place seniors move to when they realize they need a lifestyle change. The necessity of letting some possessions go and the reality of leaving a home and neighborhood after possibly decades of residence there can make transitioning to an independent living community difficult. These communities are often friendly places, but being in a new environment still initially triggers feelings of loneliness in many seniors. 

Having a strategy for dealing with the challenges of moving can make the transition to an independent living community a positive experience. We’ve created a downloadable step-by-step guide for tips to making this transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Independent Living Resources in Seattle, WA

There are many other resources and activities for seniors in Seattle. Use the table below to learn about the options available for older adults in the area.

ResourcePhone numberDescription
Central Area Senior Center(206) 726-4926Seniors can learn how to use smartphones and computers, listen to music performances, and take part in other activities, such as knitting, quilting and dancing, or just socialize with other locals. An interesting menu of hot, nutritious lunches is also available every weekday for a small donation. Transportation can also be arranged, which is generally used for group trips to eat at a nearby restaurant or go shopping.
Greenwood Senior Center(206) 783-2244The senior center on Phinney Avenue is another place for seniors to get together to chat, have fun and take part in group outings to local events and activities. Many services for the senior community are also provided by the knowledgeable staff, including health, medical insurance and financial services, legal assistance and support groups on various issues.
Retired Senior Volunteer Program(206) 694-6785Residents aged 55 or over can become volunteers to help serve the community through many projects that are organized by the local government and nonprofits. Projects include bringing food to local seniors, helping non-English speakers learn the language, tutoring and mentoring, as well as other activities to improve the community.
Free Access to Computers and Internet(206) 684-0600There are dozens of locations around Seattle for seniors to get access to computers and get on the internet to chat with friends and family, pay bills or simply for entertainment. Visit the website and check the map to find the closest spot. Digital skills training is also available in some locations. This can be a great opportunity for older adults to stay connected.

Reviews of Communities Nearby

Independent Living

Dexter

I visited this facility

Review of Murano Senior Living

Murano Senior Living is unlike most senior living in Seattle. It is a 24-story tower. It's new. I thought it was very well-appointed. The representatives we met were very pleasant and welcoming....

Provider response

Hi Dexter, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us this review! Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need anything.

Read more

Independent Living

Vicky

I am/was a resident of this facility

Review of Ida Culver House Broadview

I have moved into Ida Culver House Broadview. One of the reasons I chose them is that it was closest to my daughter and her family. It has the apartment configuration that was most pleasing to me...

Provider response

Thank you for providing such a beautiful description of your new home, Vicky. We understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment for our residents and we're so pleased to know that...

Read more

Independent Living

Dexter

I am/was a resident of this facility

Review of Ballard Landmark

We're in Ballard Landmark. We looked at probably six similar locations. Of the other six we looked at, this is the one that was the most appealing. We liked the fact that it had a lot of organized...

Read more

Helpful Articles

Independent Living near Seattle, WA

Mercer IslandBellevueKirklandBurienRentonShoreline

Other Options in Seattle, WA

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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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