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Chicago’s diverse and growing senior population has an array of independent living communities designed exclusively for adults age 55+ to choose from. A Place for Mom partners with 42 independent senior living communities within a 10-mile radius of Chicago’s city center. These communities offer a range of convenient amenities to foster carefree retirement living — such as on-site maintenance, social lounges, fitness centers, and even meal services and housekeeping. The downtown location also provides residents with convenient access to the bustling city life while remaining a stone’s throw from the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.
With the help of this guide, you can browse independent living communities in the heart of Chicago. We’ve compiled information using our 20+ years of senior living experience, proprietary data on over 14,000 senior living communities across the country, and advice from local Chicago senior living experts. In addition to individualized criteria — such as pet accommodations, amenities, and social opportunities — you’ll find payment tips, Illinois independent living health and safety regulations, and other resources for Chicago seniors.
Types of care available in Chicago, IL
Independent Living
I recommend Cantata because they have a robust rehab gym staffed with professionals in physical therapy, occupational therapy, balance, speech/memory therapy. It is located on a quiet tree lined landscaped campus with onsite Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Independent Living. The staff communicates very well with the resident and the family. Price is fair market/moderate.
HI, we really enjoy our visit. Your place is very nice. Exceptionally clean. The people, workers and residents alike were very polite and friendly. Our Dad is looking forward to living with you. Thank you so much for making him feel welcome and comfortable.
What we really like about The Carrington will drive the residents to and doctors appointment which is very helpful. It ultimately is our Father-in-law's choice, but I do think we would recommend this community to other families.
3659 W 99th Pl, Chicago, IL 60655
Very happy with my mother's overall experience. [name removed] you have taken such good care of her. When your loved one becomes ill, it is nic to know there is a place you can trust that will take good care...
A faith-based not-for-profit communityMercy Circle’s residents and staff together create a vibrant, caring community where all people are welcome and our non-profit status is reflected in no entrance fees. Residents pay only a monthly fee, which includes meals, services, amenities and...
6700 S Keating Ave, Chicago, IL 60629
What we like the most about the community is that the staff is always supportive and protective of my mother needs. My family feels like my mother feels right at home when we are there.
Don't let our value prices fool you -- Autumn Green is a beautiful community! Autumn Green at Midway Village offers full-service rental retirement living at a mid-range price for persons aged 62+ OR For-sale condominiums for persons aged 55+ in the adjacent Midway Village...
2960 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60657
I assisted a wonderful lady moving from her home into Brookdale. The idea of a retirement home brought certain thoughts into my mind; walking into Brookdale made me realize my opinions were wrong. [name...
Good Times, Good CompanyLocated in the active and vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, our independent and assisted living community boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, spacious common areas for relaxing and entertaining, delicious meals served in a restaurant-style dining...
3121 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60657
My loved one was previously a resident at Brookdale Lake View and the overall experience was great for her at this facility. The friendliness and the staff are great. The cleanliness, care services and value...
Healthier Life, Healthier YouHave you been on the hunt for an exceptional senior living experience that gives you the quality care you want without sacrificing the independence and freedom you crave? If so, look no further. Our independent and assisted living community is located within walking...
7432 W Talcott, Chicago, IL 60631
Very friendly staff. They take good care of you and are always trying to make their residents comfortable. Very nice accommodations. My Dad has enjoyed the food and most of the get togethers they organized.
3535 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
My mother is currently a resident at Artis Senior Living of Lakeview and we are very happy with the place. The staff and my mother have both adjusted well. We are satisfied that this was the right place for...
Welcome to Artis—where empowerment, pride and fulfillment define memory careAt Artis Senior Living, our mission is to provide the finest level in Memory Care and assisted living through individually designed programs combined with a passionate dedication to each resident’s individualized comforts...
5839 South Harlem Avenue, Chicago, IL 60638
Everything is going well - but they really need to improve on the time it takes them to fix things that break. They take a very long time to fix.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
5333 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60640
Apartment are ok. Views great. Elevator situation is horrible. Not sure what can be done but they take forever and it takes so long to load and unload them. Staff are generally nice. It's good. Felt...
At The Breakers, I have my choice of a quiet evening in my apartment home or spending time with my friends. There is fun and lively entertainment all in one spot. What's really special is that there is always someone to visit and talk with. It's a warm, friendly community where everyone feels...
4845 South Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609
The office staff are amazing and very attentive, maintenence responds in a timely manner,they have a lot that the residents are able to engage in,it's a good fit for my mom especially the social aspects.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
2825 S Halstead St, Chicago, IL 60608
Bridgeport Senior home is a nice place to live. I've been here eight years. I feel safe, because they have an intercom. The maintenance people are very helpful. Including the whole Staff. Most of the...
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
4021 W Belmont, Chicago, IL 60641
There's no reporting system i.e. does my wife participate in activities? That would be helpful to have. The staff at St. Joseph Village seems to truly care about the residents.
Have you noticed that something doesn't seem right with mom or dad these days? It could be subtle or it could be something that's pretty obvious. Regardless, you've turned to the Internet for a reason and the best choice for assisted living is also Chicago's most notable and...
848 West 103rd Street, Chicago, IL 60643
My loved one is currently a resident at Senior Suites of Washington Heights and the overall experience has been mostly good. However, the hallway carpet on my loved one's floor is filthy. It has not been...
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
4715 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641
What our family likes the most about the Clarendale Six Corners is their customer service, their response time, and the value for cost. It also is a new building so the cleanliness is very nice.
Clarendale Six Corners is Chicago's most anticipated senior living community now open for you to experience! On a triangular corner of Six Corners in Northwest Chicago, Illinois, you’ll discover 10 floors of casual sophistication, superb hospitality services and great amenities.You'll enjoy...
6045 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
The admin staff at Senior Suites of Belmont Craigin was fantastic. They were very accommodating and catered to all our needs. Bus transport was so helpful too. I would recommend them to others for...
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
3656 West Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60624
Happy being here. Friendly neighbor they provide entertainment/activities/the staff is a big help to us. They come and check on the senior seeing that we all are ok.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
1050 West 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60620
Senior Suites could Start the meals and shop at more alternative grocery stores. I would recommend this community to other families based on the experience I have had so far.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
13550 South Avenue O, Chicago, IL 60633
This is an independent living building. Therefore no meals or housekeeping provided. The common areas are cleaned by staff. Meals on wheels and other services are available through a city agency. The staff...
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
2800 West Montrose Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
The staff can be quite demanding, but they are slow to follow up with my requests. They will give me deadlines but I have been waiting for two weeks for someone to help me with my refrigerator.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
2804 East 77th Place, Chicago, IL 60649
I believe that the lady that assisted us was kind and courteous and was patient to show us other units without being irritated.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
1501 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
My mom feels really comfortable being at the Renaissance Saint Luke community and based on the experience we have had so far we would recommend them to other families.
Seniors age 55 and better enjoy a vibrant lifestyle at Renaissance Saint Luke.Our convenient Lincoln, Belmont, Ashland location is just across the street from the huge new Whole Foods store, and serviced by Belmont/Ashland bus lines. We're close to all of the attractions of West Lakeview, an...
929 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Dinner service at the Admiral at the Lake has successfully made it through the pandemic, staff shortages, and inflation that plague us all. Meals are nutritional and appetizing, and always include meat, fish...
Step out your door to acres of beautiful parkland, the beach, and the lake’s shore. Look the other way and Chicago surrounds you – the stunning skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and the cultural depth few other cities offer.Chicago’s oldest, nonprofit retirement living organization is introducing...
3251 East 92nd Street, Chicago, IL 60617
When I say [name removed]. is heaven sent I mean it!!! [name removed] went above and beyond to help me find a senior residencency for my loved one. She was the first person to inform me of a vacant...
Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of South Chicago community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all else, this is your life...
5700 N. Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60631
The apartments are really nice and newer than the others we looked at. The community is very clean and neat and the staff is very friendly. This is a good value compared to other communities in the area...
Senior Suites of Norwood Park is a highly rated Chicago independent living community for seniors 62 years of age or older. We offer the comfort of a private apartment with the joys of communal life. Our convenient location allows residents to fully enjoy their retirement as they take in all the...
2355 East 67th Street, Chicago, IL 60649
I enjoy this community and love my apartment. My only complaint is that I'm not happy with package delivery here. I don't feel that my packages are secure. I'd like the main office to receive them.
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
700 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Staff works well with family members and is very accommodating. Clean and Happy place. Nice food/restaurant style eating. Very friendly clients welcoming new people and making them feel at home. Very nice...
At Belmont Village Lincoln Park, you’ll find the perfect blend of comfort, care and active living. The mid-rise building maintains the look and feel of the area with an architectural style very closely replicating the Nellie Black building that previously occupied the site. Nestled in the new...
The cost of an independent living community within 10 miles of the Chicago city center averaged $3,203 per month in 2022, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. This figure includes rent as well as any add-on fees that the community offers. Chicago independent living costs can vary based on floor plans, amenities and add-ons, and location. North of downtown Chicago tends to have a higher cost of living, whereas south of downtown often has lower costs. The following figures represent baseline Chicago area independent living rental costs, not including add-on fees.
8.92 miles from you
Your zip code
9.86 miles from you
Independent living community costs are not covered by public sources like Medicare or Medicaid, though in-home care services may be covered for medically qualifying seniors. However, there are many private ways to pay for independent living. Veteran Affairs (also known as VA) pensions and benefits may also help to offset costs of independent living for eligible senior veterans and their spouses.
Housing support for independent living in Chicago
Illinois independent living communities are required to enforce a 55 year age minimum per the Illinois Administrative Code. While families and children of seniors may be able to live in independent living depending on the community, residents will need to verify that at least one member of their household is 55 or over.
While Illinois does not have many requirements specific to independent living, these buildings must comply with the legal standards of any type of housing. While building codes vary across the state of Illinois, Chicago living spaces are required to maintain standards such as:
To report a building code violation in Chicago, you can call 3-1-1 or fill out an online service request.
All living spaces are also required to be ADA compliant, which means that reasonable accommodations and modifications are made for individuals with disabilities. Under federal law, owners of housing facilities cannot deny tenancy to individuals with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations are adjustments to rules or policies so that tenants with disabilities are not left out of the activities or benefits offered to other tenants. Property managers may provide accommodations, such as the following:
Modifications involve making changes to the apartment complex and unit to make it more accessible to those with disabilities. This can mean adding a wheelchair ramp or hands-free entrance or simply installing handrails in bathrooms. The costs of these modifications are to be covered by the owner of the rental property rather than by the tenant with the disability.
Find contact information and resources for tenant rights’ advocacy, housing discrimination, housing-related legal aid, eviction assistance, and more through Illinois’ Tenant Rights, Laws and Regulations website.
Illinois Department of Public Health — Chicago headquarters offices
122 S. Michigan Ave., 7th and 20th Floors
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-814-2793
69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-814-5278
There are currently no COVID-19 regulations in place for Chicago independent living communities.
Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
Chicago independent senior living communities typically offer private apartments or condos. Floor plans often include living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms with hand rails. Check out some other features common to Chicago independent living communities:
Some communities even offer the following types of on-site services for additional fees:
Resident-only clubhouses are also common to Chicago independent living communities. These clubhouses promote socialization among residents and give them access to even more shared amenities, such as the following:
Chicago independent living communities provide the active senior with an exciting urban locale that has convenient access to entertainment, shopping, dining, and the sparkling Lake Michigan shoreline. On-site storage and maintenance foster a more relaxing environment than home ownership. Some independent living communities even offer an aging-in-place option for an even more worry-free living experience.
Chicago’s independent living communities with aging-in-place options are typically part of a larger senior living facility that includes multiple care types and accommodations on one campus, such as assisted living and memory care. Communities that offer these add-on care services are ideal for the senior who may need more assistance down the line. If a senior’s care needs ever evolve past the care offered in the independent living community, they can just add on the care services they need without having to relocate to a new community. Aging-in-place features provide security in the event of surgery, illness, or other medical events. A Place for Mom has 17 partnered communities in Chicago that offer aging-in-place services, with access to home care agencies, memory care, and skilled nursing services on site.
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Percent of Chicago residents age 65+
Percentage of Chicago’s older adults who self-report being in overall good health, according to Center for Community Health Equity
Chicago residents have many innovative and highly rated medical centers to choose from. Several of Chicago’s medical facilities also offer specialty geriatric care.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is the highest ranking hospital in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties, and it partners with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to foster world-class patient care and medical innovation.
Rush University Medical Center is ranked No. 2 out of all Chicago hospitals, according to U.S. News and World Report. Rush is known for outstanding patient care, education, and medical research, with roots going back nearly 200 years.
University of Chicago Medical Center is the third-highest ranked hospital in Chicago and in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. Known for exceptional geriatric care services, University of Chicago Medical Center is a nonprofit academic hospital established in 1927.
NorthShore University Health System is the fourth-highest ranking Chicago hospital, according to U.S. News and World Report. The NorthShore system includes six hospitals and over 140 medical centers all over the Illinois area.
While driving in the city is an option, heavy traffic and limited parking can make it a challenge. Fourteen of A Place for Mom’s partnered independent living communities in Chicago offer transportation services at an additional cost. For those without transportation, many Chicago residents count on public transportation. The most convenient and cost effective way to get around is the Chicago Transit Authority “L” train. The Chicago Transit Authority also has over 100 bus routes.
While Chicago is relatively walkable, it’s quite big, so it can be helpful to know what other options are available. For the active individual, Chicago’s Divvy bike-share system can be a fun way to get around, and the Metra Rail train is great for commuting to the Chicago suburbs. Chicago also provides AC Med Tran transportation services specifically for seniors, veterans, and individuals who require a wheelchair or mobility assistance.
Compiled from data about Chicago’s population, public transportation, walking and bike routes, and more, the Windy City has received the following WalkScore ratings, each out of 100:
77
72
65
As the most populous city in the Midwest, Chicago always has something exciting to offer. Whether you’re looking for great food, fine arts, exciting sports, or exhilarating shopping, you’ll find it in Chicago. The striking architecture of the city contrasted against the glistening Lake Michigan shoreline creates an idyllic backdrop for your golden years.
The closer to the city center, the more social opportunities seniors have with others who are in the same stage of life. The Norwood Park Senior Center sits just outside the city center’s 10-mile radius. It features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a library, and a reading room. Additionally, lunch is served Monday through Friday. Chicago seniors can make new connections as they partake in games, Zumba and yoga classes, seasonal water aerobics, music appreciation, and educational classes.
Chicago’s lovers of the arts can explore the offerings of the Belmont Theater District, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, to name just a few local art centers.
When the family comes to visit, the Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Bird Sanctuary offer free admission daily, or you can take advantage of the Children’s Museum senior discounts. Chicago residents can also visit the wonders of the ocean for a reduced rate at Shedd Aquarium.
When the grandkids go back home, take a trip to nearby Elgin for a scenic evening at Grand Victoria Casino on the river. Or, stay local and dine, sample locally crafted wines, and enjoy entertainment at City Winery — Riverwalk Winegarden in the spring and the City Winery — West Loop all year round.
The following are just a few Chicago attractions with senior discounts and specials:
Independence Village Naperville, Brookdale Northbrook and Brookdale Hawthorn Lakes in Vernon Hills Assisted Living are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Chicago, IL. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Chicago is 4,918 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Chicago [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Illinois General Assembly. Health Facilities and Regulation(210 ILCS 9/) Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act.
International Code Council. (2019, December 1). 2019 Chicago building code with revised April 2022 supplement.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2022). Reasonable accommodations and modifications.
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2021, July 21). Chicago city, Illinois. QuickFacts.
Laflamme, E., Harper-Jemison, D., Jorgensen, E., Reina, M., Rushovich, T., Weaver, K., Prachand, N., Shah, R., Lange-Maia, B., & De Maio, F. (2019, August). Healthy Chicago databook: Older adult health. Center for Community Health Equity.
Walk Score. (2022). Living in Chicago.
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