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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.
My main issues relate to money. They assessed my mother at a low level of care but then raised that within a month - even though her condition did not change. At the beginning of the calendar year, the rate for each care level increased. Then at her one year anniversary, the rent portion went way up. With all of that, we were then paying a lot more than what we expected when we signed on. I complained and they reduced all of it somewhat. Anyway, maybe this happens everywhere. But it is an issue. Once an elderly person gets settled in, a move would be difficult. I think they take advantage of that. All in all, I think it is a very good place. It is a little smaller than others I looked at. So, even though my mother is not outgoing and does not do the activities, she knows most of the residents and staff. The staff is very capable and warm which seems like the most important thing.
My brother [Removed] lived there for 2 1/2 years. I can't say enough good things about this facility. He had a lot of health needs but was able to be there and maintain a good amount of independence. The staff were always attentive to him and responsive to me. They helped us find wonderful aides who were able to assist him with things that he couldn't do and this allowed him to be as independent as possible. The staff are very caring and personable. The food was home cooked and he raved about it all the time. There were a number of activities and the residents always seemed very social with one another. It was very home like and affordable.
8300 South Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619
The Senior Suites of Chatham was a very nice accommodation. I found that the building manager was most patient and helpful in her efforts to get me funded through the Covid 19 Pandemic and she understood my...
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...
1922 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Great modern design and huge windows - cheerful staff and team. Great community feel in the best of Chicago. The outdoor excursions are often and fun. The living spaces are many and they have a great...
"Get to know us before you need us." The Ravenswood Supportive Living program is certified by the Illinois Department of Health & Family Services. This program is designed to promote independence, dignity, respect and well-being for residents in a cost-effective manner. Depending on an...
908 W. Argyle Street, Chicago, IL 60640
Our mother is at The Selfhelp Home and my family is very happy with everything they have to offer. The staff is very friendly and loves to help and talk with the residents and family members, and there are...
The Selfhelp Home is an active and engaging not-for-profit senior living community designed to accommodate the needs of elderly Jewish residents throughout the Chicago area.The Selfhelp Home can be your home no matter what your individual needs. Selfhelp offers a full continium of care. We are a...
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...
6840 N Sacramento Ave, Chicago, IL 60645
We have experienced mostly good things! I like the fact that my wife will have a "community" around her when I "move on." She is very well liked here. Wish they had a swimming pool! Came here 4 months...
Park Plaza Jewish Senior Living Community offers spacious studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom apartments with room enough for your grandchildren to visit. Studio apartments are equipped with a modern convenience kitchen, while the one and two bedroom apartments offer a Full amenity kitchen...
8700 W 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513
Two people in particular were the reason we chose Cantata - [name removed] - Admissions [name removed] - Wellness Manager Weekend staffing seems to utilize temporary, contract help a lot who don't seem...
The Cantata continuum of care—Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, Short-Term Rehab, and Long-Term Care—allows you to live your best life today, tomorrow and into the future. Located in Brookfield, Cantata offers exceptional care in a comfortable environment that feels like home....
1111 Ontario Street, Oak Park, IL 60302
I had research several places before moving my mom and I so glad that we settled on Brookdale. My mom's apartment is manageable size for her needs, it's walking distance to Trader Joe's and several downtown...
Everything You Want, Everything You NeedIf first impressions are everything, we think we make a pretty good one. Nestled between historic Frank Lloyd Wright homes and a vibrant downtown shopping district, the location of our independent and assisted living community is just the start of what...
711 Madison St, Oak Park, IL 60302
Placing my loved one in memory care is the most difficult decision I have made in our married life. As soon as I stepped into the facility, I felt at home right away and I had that feeling of confidence...
408 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302
Oak Park Arms is a quiet and safe community that provides me with a homey comfort. I go to all the exercise classes and eat three meals a day at the restaurant where I socialize. My favorite activities are...
Built as a luxury hotel in 1922, the Oak Park Arms retained the original charm of the grand hotels of the 20th century. The apartments, Ballroom, Georgian Room Restaurant, Lounge, and meeting rooms have been renovated on an on-going basis. A rental retirement community for 26 years, the Oak Park...
800 N Harlem Ave, River Forest, IL 60305
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The care staff does seem to care. The administrative staff can sometimes be hard to reach. It is a beautiful facility and I think it would be hard to find a perfect facility. I would recommend it.
1035 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302
They were very helpful from the start with transporting my uncle from nursing home to their facility. Everyone is helpful. Building and rooms are very clean bright cheery atmosphere. Had everything I was...
Belmont Village of Oak Park is located in the heart of historic Oak Park, a western suburb of Chicago. Our senior living residents don't have to go far to enjoy all the 'Windy City' has to offer. Close to the facility are shops, galleries, places of worship, and RUSH Oak Park Hospital. And when...
1800 River Woods Drive, Melrose Park, IL 60160
My loved one is currently a resident at Victory Centre of River Woods and overall things have been good for him. I think he's in a good place, not great but good. I do recommend this facility to others.
Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of River Woods 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...
315 N La Grange Rd, La Grange Park, IL 60526
I’ve been at Plymouth Place now for over two months and love this place. My apartment is a one bedroom 900 sq ft with a 20 ft porch that spans the living and bedroom with sliding glass doors in each room....
A La Grange Park landmark, Plymouth Place is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that provides independent living, assisted living, memory support and skilled care.Plymouth Place's 20-acre campus offers the beauty of private, tree-lined lanes, plus the convenience of being located...
3244 West 59th Street, Chicago, IL 60629
This facility is good. A nice and clean atmosphere. We haven't had any problems so far and we're happy with it. Maintenance is quick to fix things when they need it. My loved one is happy here. I would...
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...
35 Shawmut Ave, La Grange, IL 60525
It a very nice and inviting environment for my mom and also for me when I visit. I feel really good about having my mom there and she really likes it. t's better for people who don't need a ton of extra care...
The Aspired Living family is excited to welcome Aspired Living of La Grange to the rapidly growing family of independent living, assisted living and memory support communities. Joining Aspired Living of Westmont and Aspired Living of Prospect Heights, La Grange’s newest state-of-the-art assisted...
5400 North Northwest Highway, Chicago, IL 60630
Location is great, close to express way and shopping. Staff is cordial, helpful, and kind. Concerns addressed quickly and efficiently. Was a pleasure to live in this community.
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...
4707 S Marshfield Ave, Chicago, IL 60609
A case of “ you can’t judge a book by its cover.” The area is on a culdesac close to a busy retail area. The Supportive facility ‘s exterior (housed in the historic old Goldblatt building) is unremarkable....
4339 W 18th Place, Chicago, IL 60623
I am very happy and pleased with this facility so far. All of the staff members have been so helpful and very accommodating. I really like the director and she was amazing in getting my cousin set up and...
The Montclare Supportive Living Community is the choice for an affordable assisted lifestyle community in the Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago. Welcome to a gracious, affordable assisted lifestyle in your community. At the Montclare, you’ll enjoy friendly neighbors to share common life...
1400 South Indiana Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
Some of the conditions include lack of affordable housing, ( according to the handbook) lack of transportation to the grocery store weekly & outside activities , lack of handicap accessibility. Concerns...
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...
3443 S 55th Avenue, Cicero, IL 60804
My mom is a new resident and she is doing fine. She has been there for quite some time and she is all settled in. Things are going good, it is a good fit for her budget and the space around. The community is...
Drexel Horizon is located Cicero, Illinois which is a town in Cook County. This area is a serene environment that allows residents to relax and interact with each other. The community offers independent living that enables residents to enjoy a stress-free life.A live in Maintenance couple oversee...
2626 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60629
[name removed] , Dir. of Mktg. was very thorough & friendly. She invited us back with relative for lunch. The staff was friendly & [name removed made sure we were introduced to any staff that came in our...
Churchview Supportive Living is an assisted living community located in Chicago, IL. The city of Chicago is located in Cook County and home to over 2.7 million people. It's an exciting city with lots of great restaurants and shops. Residents can enjoy going on outings when the weather is warm and...
6800 S. Keating Avenue, Chicago, IL 60629
It would be helpful for others to know that they have adequate handicap parking for residents, but not so much for others. There is limited parking for the guests. It is a locked facility so you have to have...
Senior Suites of Midway Village is a welcoming, secure independent living community in Chicago for seniors ages 62 and over. We provide the opportunity for seniors to forego home maintenance chores in favor of private apartments with housekeeping in a convenient location. We want our residents to...
55 East Pearson St, Chicago, IL 60611
My parents have been at The Clare since 2008, first in Independent Living, then my Father in Memory care and now my mother in Assisted Living. They chose the Clare as their plan for retirement. They both...
The Clare rises as an integral part of downtown Chicago—with the blue of Lake Michigan at one hand, the proud skyline at the other and at its feet all you could ever desire for enrichment, excitement and fulfillment. This premiere retirement residence and the unique lifestyle it offers await you...
5550 S Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
Will you pass on to the staff the following thank you for doing, not only the job you were hired to do, but an additional variety of tasks you never signed on for - delivering hot meals to our doors, taking...
Montgomery Place is a Continuing Care Retirement Community with a range of living options. Located in Chicago's historic Hyde Park, with spectacular views of Lake Michigan, there's something for everyone here! Modern apartments support active lifestyles and Independent Living. Assisted Living...
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
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9.77 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.
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:
Brookdale Northbrook, Independence Village Naperville and Sunrise of Naperville North 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 6,098 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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