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For active, independent older adults looking for housing in and around Kansas City, Missouri, independent living communities in Kansas City might be the best choice. Most independent living communities offer a range of amenities and services that cater to the needs of older adults, such as scheduled transportation, meal services, and housekeeping, as well as some optional organized activities. If you need assistance with activities of daily living such as medication management, using the bathroom, dressing, grooming, etc., consider looking at our assisted living options.
The metro area of Kansas City straddles the Missouri and Kansas state line. A Place for Mom has partnered with eight independent living communities for seniors within a 10-mile radius of downtown Kansas City, and these communities are in both states. Within these eight facilities, there is a mix of standalone facilities and facilities that combine with either assisted living or memory care.
Whether you’re interested in living downtown, near the Plaza shopping center, or in a more outdoorsy, suburban setting, A Place for Mom can recommend independent living communities based on your preferences. In this guide, we lay out all the information you need to make the best choice, from cost and payment to laws and regulations and types of care to community activities, we have it all.
Our listings extend a radius of 10 miles out from downtown Kansas City and can be found in close neighboring cities like Shawnee, Overland Park, and Independence, as well.
Types of care available in Kansas City, MO
Independent Living
So far I'm very satisfied with Villa Ventura!!! I'm extremely pleased with [name removed] who set the expectation for the facility!!! She went over and beyond to accommodate getting my mom situated with limited notice. Most of the Interim Home Health staff are great as well. I'm grateful that the facility took appropriate action to keep the residences safe during this pandemic!!! I would recommend Villa Ventura!!!
The food is good and appropriate temperature but the residents have to sit and wait for their food way to long. When it comes to the activities they have for the residents there are crafts, history talks, bingo, games, movies, outings, manicures, happy hour, Bible study, church service. We would absolutely recommend Anthology of Olathe to other families based on our experience so far.
Locations is GREAT. We enjoy that there is quality in every aspect of the property. Office Mgmt is also superb. Love love [Name removed]... Few features my wife and I enjoy would be 24/7 help, exercise room (they have what I like to use), golf course (it's right there), and the great management that'll come with!
6500 North Cosby Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64151
Friendliness of staff- 1 of the big draws for us, everyone with few exceptions very welcoming and friendly. Meals/dining - only true negative. Has deteriorated significantly since coming here. Probably...
Welcome to Senior Star at Wexford Place! Wexford Place is an independent living, assisted living, and state-of-the-art memory support community located in the heart of "The Northland" in Kansas City, Miissouri. It's a community filled with friendship and lots of ways to enjoy a life full of...
9000 North Congress Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64153
5s across the board! Everyone is so friendly - staff and residents. Mom is very involved in activities. Meals are fantastic (especially the salad bar). Ability to ask for something off-menu is a plus....
Riverstone Retirement is Kansas City’s Premier independent living community. Riverstone Retirement comprises apartments for adults 55 and over — including studio apartments, one, two, and three bedroom suites and a variety of floor plans. Riverstone Retirement is an all-inclusive retirement...
501 West 107th Street, Kansas City, MO 64114
We have lived here for just 3 months. We are extremely happy with the apartment, services, food services and all employees are very concerned to be sure we are happy and satisfied with this whole place! We...
Good Times and Better CompanyNestled within a quiet and nature-filled neighborhood, our independent and assisted living community provides you with more than a wonderful backdrop to enjoy a life well lived. With spacious common areas for relaxing, dining and socializing, a dining room that...
2900 NE Kendallwood Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64119
The staff has a high caring level and does an excellent job communicating with me. The housekeeping is dependable. Moving in was easy -- they provide large flat carts and luggage carriers that came in...
9101 N Ambassador Dr, Kansas City, MO 64154
Everyone who works here is friendly and helpful. Their kindness is genuine, they are patient and do their best to solve any issue that arises. To be honest, since my husband died I don't go to lunch or...
Tiffany Springs offers upscale, luxury senior living with a variety of care options.By locating independent living, assisted living, memory care, and rehabilitation health care together on one campus in the Northland of Kansas City, we’re able to meet a variety of needs for individuals and...
14001 Madison Ave., Kansas City, MO 64145
I am very happy with the facility and friendliness of staff. Unfortunately, the response time on requests are slow. The rental payment app is not working correctly, but we would recommend this community to...
Find the place where you truly belong with people who welcome you like family.The Madison is an exciting community filled with people who know how to live it up. To-do lists consist of seeing shows and socializing – not fixing the plumbing or mopping the floors. You get to spend your days trying...
1201 NW Tullison Road, Kansas City, MO 64116
I would say that no matter where a loved one lives that the family or one family member should definitely be involved on a regular basis. Especially someone who needs extra care. Like Alzheimer's. Some...
McCrite Plaza at Briarcliff is a family owned and operated senior-living community that provides the full continuum of care. The McCrite family opened the original McCrite Plaza in 1975 in Topeka, KS and in December of 2013 opened their Kansas City location in the Northland. Nestled in the bluffs...
8550 North Granby Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64154
This has been my first experience living in a senior living community. I have been here almost 6 months. All the current staff is very friendly. There have been many changes and a very big turnover in staff,...
Garden Village provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment. Our all-inclusive month-to-month rent covers: - Private apartment suites - Daily chef-prepared meals from scratch - A variety of enriching activities - Maintenance-free living - Weekly housekeeping and linen...
2115 Maturana Dr, Liberty, MO 64068
They were always willing to help at Our Lady of Mercy. They did offer several activities, but my dad did not want to participate in most of them. The ones he did participate in, he liked. Dad passed away,...
6050 Broadmoor St, Mission, KS 66202
The Welstone is well-run and administrators are accessible. The building is attractive and well-maintained. Apartments are attractive and are well thought out. There are a good variety of activities...
Welcome to The Welstone At Mission Crossing! We are an active, independent senior living community in Mission, Kansas. Mission is a beautiful city to enjoy your retirement years; rich in culture and known for its friendly, laid-back residents. Whether you are moving closer to family or just love...
1051 Kent St, Liberty, MO 64068
They all seem pleasant and helpful snd try to accommodate your suggestions. However they have to report to their boss too. My mom has recommended to others and a few have moved in. I think this place...
The Wellington Senior Living is a community that embraces technology to improve the lifestyle, health, and overall well-being of our residents.The Wellington's full service restaurant is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm with Bistro options available 24 hours a day.The Wellington offers a full...
10000 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64114
My mom has found a really good community to be a part of and is enjoying it. She appreciates being cooked for and having choices at mealtimes. The staff are friendly. And the apartment is great.
Kingswood is where you can live the life you love. Here you have maintenance-free living, great friends and neighbors, and a full continuum of care should you ever need it. All in the heart of Kansas City, and all at a great value.The Courtyards at Kingswood are designed for those who need...
1515 W White Oak St, Independence, MO 64050
Excellent physical therapy department. Responsive medical staff. I love Dr. [name removed]. My mother's health has improved while living there. The facility is old, but a new director just hired and already...
At The Groves, you’ll find we’re a community dedicated to your comfort and security. We’ll take care of the yard, the housekeeping, and the maintenance, leaving you free to do the things you choose to do! Feel carefree!We are located in Independence, MO-Harry Truman’s choice of retirement...
1010 E 68th St, Kansas City, MO 64131
I would recommend you look at the community for your loved one. The staff to resident ratio is good. They have transportation to doctor appointments. This is a newer community. The physical community is...
St. Anthony’s Senior Living is a gated, resort-style community that offers one and two-bedroom apartment homes in residential living and assisted living. Designed for residents who are 62 years of age and better, this modern community is perfect for those who wish to pursue an active, healthy,...
8100 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64114
Overall, my loved ones are thrilled with their new home. They ended up securing a single family house that is adjacent to the main property. Armour Oaks is understaffed, but they get the job done. The...
Armour Oaks Senior Living in Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City’s oldest continuing Not-For-Profit entity - is located in the eclectic Waldo neighborhood at the corner of 81st and Wornall Road with easy access to I-435. This historic senior living community, just 15 minutes from the famous...
2901 NE 72nd St., Gladstone, MO 64119
In a week we will move my Mother into Linden Woods Village. We received a fantastic tour from [name removed]. She helped us decide this was the place for my Mother. [name removed] answered all of our questions and was very patient with us. We are...
2801 NE 60th St, Gladstone, MO 64119
4301 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111
My mother has been to all type of care center. This was one of the best ones out of all of them that we have been to. The staff was friendly they kept me informed on everything with my mother. They did not...
7115 Stewart Road, Liberty, MO 64068
1832 Vintage Lane, Liberty, MO 64068
11400 Hidden Lake Dr, Raytown, MO 64133
They are professional. The staff is attentive. They are open to suggestions. They show care toward residents. It is clean and smells nice. The food is good. The room size is sufficient. The layout is nice.
6220 Martway St, Mission, KS 66202
6220 Martway St, Mission, KS 66202
8559 N Line Creek Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64154
We have visited and thought the apartment had better storage and kitchen facilities than Garden Village. They don't allow smoking indoors which may be a problem.
Kendallwood Hills Estates has 104 apartment homes and is one of the newest properties north of the river. If you want a home that focuses on family, community, and service, not just amenities, we are the one to see. At Kendallwood Hills Estates, we provide luxury living for the young at heart...
441 W 81st, Kansas City, MO 64114
Kansas City independent living options average about $3,184 per month at our eight partner communities.[01] This includes related fees and represents the average total cost residents paid. When compared to the cost of senior apartments, independent living communities are more expensive as they offer more amenities such as prepared meals, transportation and laundry services, optional organized activities, etc. For comparison, senior apartments average around $1,116 per month and are more similar to living in a traditional apartment.
The following figures represent baseline averages for independent living communities in the Kansas City area and don’t account for total move-in costs, add-ons, and related fees.
14.46 miles from you
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10.45 miles from you
Most seniors use their own income to pay for independent living. While Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care insurance can help cover medically necessary in-home care services, they do not cover the costs of independent living. Listed below are useful resources regarding private pay, housing assistance, VA benefits, and Medicare/Medicaid resources for seniors.
Seniors who choose to live in an independent living community often pull money from pensions, savings accounts, Social Security benefits, or investment returns. Some seniors also use less-conventional methods to pay for independent living such as:
Because independent living facilities do not provide around-the-clock medical care, they are not subject to specific regulations. Instead, most independent living facilities are regulated like any other apartments. However, independent living communities that are combined with assisted living facilities, would be regulated by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services or the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). Inspection reports for Missouri facilities can be found here. For Kansas facilities, inspection reports can be located here.
A full list of laws and regulations that apply to Missouri assisted living facilities can be explored on this page of the Missouri DHSS website. For Kansas residents, this page outlines the laws and regulations that apply. Some of the key regulations that pertain to facilities in both states center around staff training and availability. Someone must be awake and available 24-hours a day. Staff must be trained on disaster and emergency preparedness. Residents must be screened and provided with a care plan upon move-in.
The two states differ in their laws around administration. In Missouri, there must be a licensed administrator in charge of the facility at all times. In Kansas, a full-time operator must be employed, but it doesn’t have to be a licensed administrator if the facility has fewer than 61 residents. However, administrators and operators alike must hold a Kansas license as an adult care home administrator and complete the operator training.
Independent living communities, not combined with other care, usually have specific age, income, health, background check, and pet policies. Qualifications for senior housing vary depending on the type of housing, with low-income housing options (e.g., subsidized housing, public housing, co-op housing, and Section 8 housing) available for seniors on Social Security or a fixed budget.
In the interest of offering a quiet, child-free environment and features that appeal to active adults, there are also age requirements in many independent living communities. In most cases, these communities require residents to be at least 55 years old. Independent living facilities must also comply with the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Phone: 573-751-6400
Fax: 573-751-6010
Email: info@health.mo.gov
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
1000 SW Jackson Street
Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: 785-296-1500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
There are no specific COVID-19 regulations in place for independent living communities in the Kansas City metro area. Kansas City follows CDC guidance and provides general information and COVID-19 guidelines, including details on community spread, vaccinations, and requirements. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment also has recommendations.
The Kansas City metropolitan area is home to more than 2.2 million people, many of whom are seniors enjoying their retirement in the beautiful Heart of America. For those looking for a comfortable living option, there are numerous independent living communities — four which are standalone and one is classified as senior apartment/independent living — available with a variety of floor plans and amenities to meet the unique needs of every resident. Whether you’re looking for a cozy one-bedroom or a more spacious residence, independent living communities in Kansas City offer many options.
Kansas City independent living communities are able to meet the living preferences of the region’s diverse population due to numerous available floor plans. Whether seniors opt for a smaller home with some cozy nooks for reading or a larger place with space to entertain guests, there are options. Most independent living options in Kansas City include resident parking and communal dining areas, and some include internet and cable TV service for all residents.
For those looking to age-in-place, three in-network options are a combination of independent living and assisted living. Another two facilities include combined independent living, assisted living, and memory care. While some independent living communities are standalone and treated as senior apartment complexes, combination independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities offer a greater range of care and services for you, or the loved one in your life. No matter which type of facility you need or prefer, Kansas City has the perfect place for you to call home.
For seniors who love to stay active and social, independent living communities in Kansas City are a good option. These communities offer a wealth of amenities and services to support independent lifestyles, with features like fitness centers, swimming pools, jacuzzis, and indoor walking paths that can be utilized year round to avoid the temperature extremes that Kansas City can experience. Residents can mingle with their neighbors at community events like happy hours featuring adult beverages from the local Boulevard Brewing Company, barbecues and picnics that feature famous Kansas City BBQ, Bible study groups, or live music performances all within the comfort of their independent living communities.
Beyond recreational and social amenities, many independent living communities also provide practical services to make daily living easier. These services can include housekeeping, free transportation, and on-site options for laundry and grocery shopping. Some communities even offer raised garden beds for green thumbs, cooking classes for foodies, and on-site beauticians and barber shops for a bit of pampering.
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Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Kansas City population
The Kansas City area provides truly excellent healthcare options for seniors. Several top-rated hospitals are in Kansas City, including:
The University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City is nationally ranked in eight adult specialties and rated a high-performing facility in two adult specialties and 17 procedures and conditions. It is a general medical and surgical facility as well as a teaching hospital. [08]
St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City is nationally ranked in one adult specialty and rated a high-performing facility for five adult specialties and 13 procedures and conditions. It is a general medical and surgical facility as well as a teaching hospital. [08]
The Kansas City VA Medical Center offers a variety of care options for veterans and helps veterans access quality and affordable care.
More than half of our partner independent living communities in Kansas City offer complimentary transportation services to and from local restaurants, shops, attractions, and medical appointments, making it easier than ever to explore the greater Kansas City area. Another 40% of our partners provide at-cost transportation as an option.
The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) also offers bus routes throughout the metro area, and RideKC Freedom offers both ADA paratransit as well as non-ADA on-demand response. Note that anyone hoping to use these programs must first navigate an eligibility process. Kansas City residents can also opt to use ride-hailing services like Uber, Lyft, and taxis to travel throughout the city. There is a rapid transit option called RideKC Max but it is only available in limited areas. In the downtown, you can catch the free Kansas City streetcar.
The walk score in Kansas City is 35 out of 100, meaning most errands will require a car. The bike score is 35 out of 100, as there is limited bike infrastructure around the city. The overall transit score for Kansas City is 25 out of 100, which means there are only a few public transportation options available.
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35
There are many options for activities in Kansas City — especially for more active, independent seniors.
Music enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Kansas City Symphony. With multiple performances throughout the year, visitors can enjoy a wide range of music styles. Plus, the symphony offers discounted tickets for seniors and various accessibility options for people with disabilities.
There are also a plethora of parks in the Kansas City area, such as Loose Park. Located on 75 acres and known for its historical ties to the Civil War, Loose Park is one of Kansas City’s most popular parks. Seniors looking to enjoy some fresh air or take a walk in the sunshine will find Loose Park perfect for outdoor activities. Loose Park is also home to many events that take place during the course of the year, and you can find its calendar here.
If you are a senior who loves fresh food, local goods, and cultural happenings, the Kansas City River Market checks all the boxes. The River Market is a perfect way to spend the morning. With over 10 specialty grocers, flavors from around the world and unique shops and boutiques, there are plenty of ways to keep busy. The Kansas City Power & Light District is another exciting place to shop or dine. You don’t want to miss the Kansas City staple for shopping and eating, Country Club Plaza.
You can enjoy many professional sports teams in Kansas City from the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals to the Kansas City Sporting and the KC Mavericks. If NASCAR is your thing, you will want to work in a trip to the Kansas Speedway.
Kansas City’s arts scene is thriving. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers free admission to its galleries, which feature works from all over the world spanning thousands of years. The museum also provides senior programming, such as tours and art discussions, enabling seniors to engage with art in a fun and social setting. For fans of history, you might want to stop by The National WWI Museum and Memorial or the Arabia Steamboat Museum.
Novel Place Overland Park, Novel Place Blue Springs and Town Village of Leawood are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Kansas City, MO. 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 Kansas City is 3,559 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2022). Population estimates (V2017-2021): Kansas City, Missouri; United States [Data set]. QuickFacts.
United States Census Bureau. (2022). S2101 Veteran Status [Data set]. QuickFacts.
Paying for Senior Care. (2023). Missouri Independent Living Medicaid Waiver. Payingforseniorcare.com
Medicare.gov. (2023). Parts of Medicare. Medicare.gov
Malzone, L. (2023, January 16). Best Kansas City Medicare Plans for 2023. Medigap.com.
Census Reporter. (2021). Census profile: Kansas City MO-KS metro area [Data set].
U.S. News. (2023). U.S. News Best Hospitals. U.S. News & World Report L.P.
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