.png&w=256&q=75){kind=small}
Independent Living in Wisconsin
Located in the Upper Midwest with coastlines on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, Wisconsin is a vibrant state with outstanding outdoor recreational amenities, world-class museums and recreated international villages. It has nearly 6 million residents and a large 65+ community that makes up about 18% of the population. It’s one of the cheapest states in the nation to live in, which may enable older adults to maintain their standard of living throughout their retirement years. While some large cities have high crime rates, in general, crime occurs at a comparatively low rate statewide.
Independent living is an ideal option for active older adults who no longer want the stress and time commitments of maintaining a home. These communities offer a low-maintenance lifestyle, freeing up residents to pursue hobbies and interests. Monthly fees are very affordable compared to other residential options for seniors, with rates in Wisconsin coming in at $2,860 per month. This guide provides more information on the cost of independent living in Wisconsin, including how fees compare to costs in nearby states and common options for paying community fees. It also provides a list of resources in the state that can help older adults access social and recreational opportunities, services and options counseling.
Find Independent Living Options Near You
The Cost of Independent Living in Wisconsin
When trying to decide how to pay for independent 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 over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of independent living in Wisconsin and its 19 cities.
The Cost of Independent Living in Wisconsin's Top Cities
Wisconsin cities show a wide variation in independent care costs, both above and below the $2,760 state average. Waukesha and Green Bay are both well below the state figures, at $2,302 and $2,000 a month, respectively. Oshkosh seniors pay more for care services, at an average of $3,138 a month. Madison, the state capital, has relatively high costs for the state, at $3,349 a month for independent living.
Wisconsin
$2,760
Green Bay
$2,000
Madison
$3,349
Waukesha
$2,302
Oshkosh
$3,138
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Independent Living in Wisconsin
Inflation is expected to increase the monthly cost of independent living in Wisconsin by 3% from 2022 - 2024. From 2022's average cost of $3,130, 2024 is projected to be $3,217. This puts Wisconsin's increase below the projected national average, which shows a rise of around 13% from $2,810 to $3,162. During the same period, Colorado anticipates an 8% rise, from $2,769 to $2,984, while Nevada expects a modest 5% hike. New Mexico projects a massive 61% increase, from $1,962 to $3,154, while Wyoming actually expects a 20% decrease to $2,200.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $3,130 | $2,760 | $3,217 |
| U.S. Average | $2,810 | $2,955 | $3,162 |
| Colorado | $2,769 | $2,802 | $2,984 |
| Nevada | $2,476 | $2,463 | $2,593 |
| New Mexico | $1,962 | $2,961 | $3,154 |
| Wyoming | $2,723 | $2,065 | $2,200 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
At $2,760 a month, independent living is one of the more affordable care options for seniors in Wisconsin. Assisted living is $2,232 a month more expensive, at $4,992, while memory care costs average $6,083.
Assisted Living
$4,992
Memory Care
$6,083
Independent Living
$2,760
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin.
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 Wisconsin
While medical insurance plans such as Medicare don’t pay for independent living, older adults in Wisconsin have several options for covering their living expenses. For many, selling their home provides enough money for independent living community expenses. Others opt to retain ownership of their property and generate passive income by renting it out or taking out a reverse mortgage. Some types of insurance, including Medicaid, long-term care insurance and veterans’ benefits, cover specific services provided in independent living communities, bringing down the individual’s monthly fees to a manageable amount.
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Wisconsin
There are many resources in Wisconsin 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.
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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Area Agencies on Aging | Wisconsin's Area Agencies on Aging handles medical and nonmedical needs for older adults. From Medicare counseling and elder nutrition programs that offer meal delivery to homes and senior dining centers where older adults can access meals Monday through Friday along with other health and nutrition support services, these programs help seniors age at home. AAA services also include caregiver assistance, prescription drug help and fall prevention programs to keep older adults in Wisconsin safe and healthy. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
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 Wisconsin seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Meals on Wheels | Wisconsin Meals on Wheels supports seniors in communities statewide by offering nutritious meals, supportive services and safety checks. Seniors must be 60 or over or disabled to be eligible, and meals are provided in a congregate setting or via home delivery for those who aren't mobile. Pricing varies depending on circumstances, and some clients qualify for free meals. Seniors may also access varying support services, including emergency meal delivery during bad weather, pet food delivery and transportation to medical appointments. | |
| Wisconsin Elderly Nutrition Program | 608-266-3746 | The Wisconsin Elder Nutrition Program provides home-delivered meals and senior dining options for residents 60 and older. Hundreds of senior dining centers throughout the state offer qualifying Wisconsinites a space to eat, learn about nutrition and engage with other older adults. A locator allows residents to find the dining centers closest to them. To receive home-delivered meals, seniors undergo an evaluation via an at-home visit, and those who qualify can receive fresh or frozen entrees brought right to their doorsteps. |
| Wisconsin FoodShare | 800-362-3002 | The primary government assistance program in Wisconsin for nutritional needs is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), called Food Share. It gives families in need of help the ability to purchase food at their neighborhood grocery stores and, in some cases, restaurants and convenience stores. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Wisconsin seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin SeniorCare Prescription Drug Assistance Program | 800-657-2038 | SeniorCare subsidizes prescription drug costs for qualifying Wisconsin seniors, covering most medically necessary drugs with only a $5 copay. For coverage, a drug manufacturer must make a rebate agreement with the SeniorCare program. It may require you to use a generic drug rather than a brand name. If you want to make a special request for a brand-name drug, you may appeal for an exception. More that 95% of Wisconsin's pharmacies accept the SeniorCare card. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Long Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-815-0015 | The long-term care ombudsman advocates for Stoughton seniors in memory care facilities and helps to ensure that they get the scope of care they're entitled to under state rules. Individuals can contact the ombudsman for help with researching memory care facilities in Stoughton and finding ways to pay for services. The ombudsman can also help facilities identify solutions for gaps in residents' care resulting from challenges related to dementia. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Senior Employment Program (WISE) | The Wisconsin Senior Employment Program, also known as the Senior Community Services Employment Program, is available to legal residents aged 55 or older. It offers part-time (subsidized) work to seniors who fall within a specific income range and are currently unemployed. Work placements are often in not-for-profit or government agencies. While the added income is a perk, seniors can also form new friendships and gain skills. Residents can apply via their respective counties. | |
| Alzheimer's and Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin (ADAW) | 888-308-6251 | The Alzheimer's & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin offers education, personal services and family support for individuals impacted by memory loss. The nonprofit can provide care consultations, resource referrals and educational programs. It also hosts social programs and peer support groups for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's. |
| Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Wisconsin chapter of the Alzheimer's Association provides in-home options counseling to help seniors and families navigate the system and make informed decisions regarding residential memory care services. The chapter has in-person and virtual support groups and early-stage engagement activities to help individuals build social connections and gain practical advice. |
| Wisconsin Memory Screening | 608-266-2536 | Provided by Wisconsin's Department of Health Services, memory screening is available in communities throughout the state to improve early diagnosis. Screening also gives families an opportunity to connect with community-based programs and supports and find early intervention programs. |
| Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute | 414-219-5083 | The Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute conducts research initiatives, educational programs and clinical care services to support individuals impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia. In addition to its public health programs and community engagement efforts, the organization sponsors the development of memory clinics across the state to ensure Wisconsinites have access to the care services they need. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Wisconsin resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Family Care | 608-266-1865 | Family Care is a home- and community-based waiver program that helps cover the costs of care services disabled adults need at home or in long-term care settings, such as Community-Based Residential Facilities. Two methods deliver services covered by Family Care: aging and disability resource centers throughout the state and managed Financial Assistance for Senior Living & Senior Care care organizations serving different counties and regions. The program intends to keep disabled seniors in their own homes or communities rather than in the state's licensed nursing facilities, improving outcomes and costs for everyone. |
| Wisconsin Include, Respect, I Self-Direct Program | 888-515-4747 | This program, known as IRIS, gives you the power to direct Medicaid funds toward your choice of care options received at home and in the community. You can use your budget to pay for the following services: • Adaptive and communication aid • Counseling and therapy • Daily living skills training • Emergency response systems • Home-delivered meals • Home modifications • Personal care services • Skilled nursing services • Transportation There is no cost to any of these services if your income is low enough unless you exceed your budget. If your income is high enough, the program may expect you to pay a cost-share for services, which it will include in a monthly bill. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Social Security | Social 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 Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Homestead Credit | 608-266-2486 | The Department of Revenue provides a property tax credit up to $1,168 for qualifying homeowners. The amount of your credit depends on your income and the number of dependents living in the home. |
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. Wisconsin retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) | 866-432-8947 | The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program provides funds for low-income households in the state that need help paying their heating and cooling bills. It offers benefits on a long-term basis and in crisis situations. To qualify, households must earn 60% or less of the state median income. Meeting this income requirement doesn't guarantee the household will receive benefits as the program has limited funding. |
Veteran's Services
Wisconsin 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin VA Benefits and Health Care | The Wisconsin VA Benefits and Health Care options for veterans ages 65 and older are available at locations throughout the state, including medical centers in Madison, Milwaukee and Tomah and outpatient clinics, community-based programs and vet centers in many cities and rural areas. Seniors can access different types of assistance, such as the specially adapted housing program that helps older vets stay in their homes with modifications and additional monthly funding to pay for in-home care. | |
| Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove | 800-947-8387 | Wisconsin Veterans Home in southeastern Wisconsin provides senior veterans with affordable residences and comprehensive nursing services. Its range of medical services includes doctors' visits, social worker care, medical transportation and skilled nursing. |
What you can do with Caring
Counties
Speak with a Caring Family Advisor
By clicking "Get Started", I am providing express written consent to receive calls including automated/pre-recorded calls and automated texts for which I may incur a cost, as well as emails from Caring and its partners. I understand I am not obligated to provide this consent to utilize Caring’s service(s). I acknowledge I was able to review the Agreement to be Contacted, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.