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Port City of North Carolina — Wilmington — is the perfect place for seniors to get tide down and enjoy an easygoing coastal retirement. Though not as populated as some of North Carolina’s major cities, like Raleigh and Charlotte, active seniors will find there’s plenty to do in Wilmington. Immaculate shopping and dining options, unique attractions, and access to several of North Carolina’s beautiful beaches are just a few of Wilmington’s charms that await. The beachside town is also home to several independent living communities for seniors.
Independent living communities give seniors the freedom to spend their days however they choose, while granting access to several on-site services and amenities as well as chef-prepared meals. A Place for Mom partners with several of these independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of central Wilmington. We’ve put together this useful guide to independent living in Wilmington to help you at every step of your search for the perfect senior community. You’ll find details on a range of topics like top amenities and services, costs and payment options, and what you can expect from independent senior living in Wilmington.
Types of care available in Wilmington, NC
Independent Living
We are thrilled with how well we are being taken care of during these difficult times! We are fed door to door, brought groceries we have ordered and prescriptions door to door, given daily fun tasks and exercises on our closed circuit TV and shown daily happy faces by our attending associates. We have been provided visitor's kiosks to share family time in a safe mode with a window separation and wireless phone connections. We have a Make a Wish, program, a cute Village Market with all the trimmings located in our Commons Bldg.,a command center for immediate answers to our needs, and transportation provided for all medical appointment if necessary. We are so pleased to be a part of this happy family!
That the client can get as involved in the activities as they want . The dining room was wonderful, staff were great to work with! My mom was in the efficiency apartment and that was plenty big for her.
The staff at Holiday Lake Shore commons are friendly, but spread thin. They are busy. My loved one said that no one has come to clean her place yet since she's moved in, so she does it herself. The communication with the family could be improved with more interaction with the family, like text check ins maybe. I often get nervous when my loved one doesn't answer because I really don't think that the staff has time to keep track of everything. However, my loved one loves it there and it's probably just that I do worry that she is alone. Everyone there is friendly and the people that live there look after one another the best that they can. I definitely feel really good about my loved one's safety there. I'm more concerned with something happening to her and them not realizing it, especially during the night.
4610 Holly Tree Rd, Wilmington, NC 28409
We would give a 5 on all of these. My parents love the community, the staff, and the other residents. The dining staff and chef are friendly and accommodating. The chef seems to hold a "ask and you shall...
The Woods at Holly Tree provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment. Located in a quiet suburb of the bustling town of Wilmington, you'll love coming home to a calm and friendly environment in the heart of it all. We're close to excellent shopping and first-class...
75 Cavalier Dr., Wilmington, NC 28405
The Cambridge community is really a great place to live, I give it all 5 stars because it is the best I have ever had. The food that is prepared here is wonderful as well as the staff members. I think I'll...
Cambridge Village of Wilmington Optimal Living® for active adults 55+Every day at Cambridge Village brings a new experience in Optimal Living® – our all-encompassing philosophy that combines professional support, concierge healthcare and social enrichment programs to maximize every resident’s...
1402 Hospital Plaza Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401
She is enjoying her new home, activities are always available. Transportation had been well. Food is great, her space is bigger than her last spot! Much more affordable. Thank you! It’s great and I think...
Lake Shore Commons provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment. Located in a quiet, beautiful section of Wilmington near the city's center, you'll love your peaceful home in the heart of town. We're minutes from healthcare shopping, dining and many interesting...
2771 Compass Pointe South Wynd NE, Leland, NC 28451
The staff knows all residents and all relatives that are visiting. You are always given a warm hello. The facility is a couple of years old, but actually looks brand new. There are many activities and...
2324 S 41st St, Wilmington, NC 28403
Welcome To An Exceptional Retirement Destination!When selecting a retirement destination, one of the most important considerations is location. Brightmore of Wilmington is especially appealing to residents who appreciate the beauty,tradition and charm of one of America's oldest cities, as well as...
630 Carolina Bay Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
630 Carolina Bay Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
1200 Porters Neck Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411
We have lived here for 5+ years and believe they are some of the best years in our our 60 years of marriage. Our food service brought to our apt. door each day is varied and delicious. During this pandemic we have been given loving care by our associ...
The average cost of independent living in Wilmington, NC runs about $3,400 a month at our partner communities, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This can be higher or lower depending on many factors — a community’s location, your chosen floor plan, and any add-on services or amenities. It’s typical of our partner independent living communities in Wilmington to include services and amenities like the following in the monthly rate:
Residents in independent living communities enjoy access to a variety of convenient on-site services, though some may not be included in a community’s baseline rent. The following types of services are typical of these communities but may require additional fees:
Be sure to ask what’s included in a community’s baseline cost and what services and amenities are considered to be extra. The figure we provide above encompasses the monthly rent of independent living, along with any add-on services or fees that residents choose.
The numbers below are baseline starting costs of independent living across the greater Wilmington area and nearby cities. These figures, though not as accurate as our figures above, are helpful to compare costs of independent living throughout the greater area.
16.00 miles from you
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Many seniors use a combination of private income sources to pay for rent in an independent living in Wilmington. Veterans or their surviving spouses may also qualify for supplemental income through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that can help offset their costs of living.
In this section, we outline the common private payment methods residents utilize to cover costs of senior living. We also run through public benefit options, what services they cover, and how to seek local benefit assistance as a senior in Wilmington. Most services provided in an independent living facility aren’t covered by public benefits like Medicare or Medicaid, however, some medically necessary care services may be covered by these programs.
If you prepared for retirement, you may have built up a substantial amount of income in personal savings, stock returns or investments, and retirement income. Some of your sources of retirement income may be able to go a long way when paying for independent living thanks to North Carolina’s tax laws. Your Social Security benefits, in particular, aren’t taxed in North Carolina. Other forms of retirement income (pensions, 401(k), IRA, etc.) are taxed at North Carolina’s 4.99% income tax rate.[02]
Depending on your available resources, you may also use the following to pay for your ideal retirement in an independent senior living community in Wilmington:
Independent living communities aren’t in the same way as assisted living or memory care facilities, which are licensed and overseen by the state. This goes for stand-alone independent living communities, as well as those located within a facility that offers assisted living and memory care. In those cases, the assisted living and memory care sections are regulated differently than the independent living areas.
For the most part, independent living communities in Wilmington are looked at in the same light as an apartment community. This means independent living communities are ultimately held to Wilmington’s housing codes and rules outlined in North Carolina landlord/tenant law. We detail information about local housing standards and responsibilities for owners and residents. You’ll also find information about laws in place to prevent housing discrimination.
Independent living communities in Wilmington must comply with the local housing code to provide a safe and habitable environment. Housing inspectors are in charge of evaluating independent living apartment units for any violations, like the following:
North Carolina independent living community owners operate similarly to a landlord at a senior apartment in Wilmington. As such, Wilmington independent living communities are responsible for making sure the building is in compliance with Wilmington’s minimum housing code, keeping the buildings safe and fit to live in, and making all necessary repairs. To keep a building safe with necessary repairs means landlords are responsible for the following types of maintenance tasks:
In most cases, independent living community residents rent their units and also have certain obligations to meet. Tenants in North Carolina are responsible for paying rent on time, as well as keeping to the following expectations:
All rental properties in North Carolina have to follow laws that prevent housing discrimination. These laws include the federal Fair Housing Act and the North Carolina State Fair Housing Act. Both laws are designed to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to be considered for housing. These laws prevent housing discrimination based on a person’s sex, race, disability, religion, or family status (with the exception of the housing for older persons).
There are a few different ways you can report an independent living community you feel isn’t following anti-discrimination housing laws. You can take any of the actions below to file a formal complaint:
Landlords have to make reasonable accommodations and modifications to a property under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Both accommodations and modifications are aimed at helping disabled individuals have equal access to the community’s spaces.
Accommodations are generally exceptions to a community’s policy. This can look like a community overlooking its no-pet policy and letting residents with a disability bring their service or therapy animal. Any physical changes or adjustments to a community’s physical structure or construction are considered modifications. For example, installing ramps at community entrances or exits. Any modifications to common spaces should be paid for by the landlord or property owner.
The law also requires landlords to let tenants make in-unit modifications that help them live and function better in their homes. In-unit modifications are usually paid for by the tenant. Some landlords also ask for these modifications to be removed before moving out, so the unit is returned to its original state. Examples of in-unit modifications include the following:
As of 2023, stand-alone independent living communities don’t have any COVID-19 regulations or mandates in place. Communities are allowed to make their own COVID-19 policies for residents, visitors, and staff that may be stricter than those set by the state. We recommend reaching out to a prospective community directly to see what measures they may have in place for COVID-19.
Additionally, you can check the New Hanover County COVID-19 community level tracker to monitor local cases and vaccination rates. You can also check local hospital admissions by using the COVID-19 County Check on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. The hospital admission for New Hanover County is rated low as of June 2023. Based on this admission level, the CDC recommends following practices such as the following:
Vaccinations. Stay current on COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.
Masking. Wear a face covering if you have COVID-19 symptoms, test positive, or were exposed to someone with COVID-19.
Social distancing. Stay away from anyone with confirmed or suspected COVID-19.
Quarantine. Follow the CDC’s isolation guidance if you have confirmed COVID-19 or think you do.
If you’re looking for the best of independent living, Wilmington has a lot to offer. You’ll find Wilmington independent living communities are thoughtfully designed to provide a fulfilling retirement experience with your peers. Opportunities to socialize, proximity to local amenities, and five-star services are just a few draws that await at Wilmington independent living communities.
Discover some of the top perks and features found at Wilmington independent living communities below.
Most of our partner independent living communities in Wilmington are within reach of some of the area’s attractions. Although all our in-network independent living communities provide meals, you’ll find several local supermarkets are within reach of all partner communities. Additionally, many communities are essentially a stone’s throw away from Wilmington’s shopping centers and diverse dining options. You can also expect to enjoy quick access to Wilmington International Airport, located less than 10 miles from all of our partner independent living communities in Wilmington.
Wilmington independent living communities offer a unique assortment of coordinated activities for residents. You’ll have your pick of clubs and classes to participate in, as well as scheduled social events. Here’s just a sample of the lively activities and programs you’ll likely come across at our partner independent living communities in Wilmington:
The on-site amenities available at Wilmington independent living communities can be compared to those offered at a hotel or resort. Below are some of the on-site amenities and common areas you can expect to find at our partner Wilmington independent senior living communities:
Our partner independent living communities in Wilmington offer an array of services to their residents. Depending on the community, these services may be included in the monthly rate or offered as add-on options. Take a look at some of the on-site services you can expect below:
Independent living apartments serve as a private retreat to unwind after a day of activities. You’ll find independent living communities in Wilmington come in a variety of floor plans and sizes. Many independent living communities have studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts to choose from. You’ll even find one-bedroom cottages available for residents at select independent living communities. Below, you’ll find a list of the in-unit amenities that may be available at some independent living communities in Wilmington.
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Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Wilmington, NC
Approximately 17% of the Wilmington population is comprised of seniors aged 65 and older
Average household income for Wilmington seniors age 65+{{citation:12}}
From urgent care and surgical procedures to primary care, Wilmington has reliable medical service providers. Take a look at some of the hospital options available for seniors in Wilmington.
New Hanover Regional Medical Center offers a range of services that include cardiac care, oncology, and orthopedics. It also features an inpatient rehabilitation hospital that provides services such as amputee and prosthetic training, cancer rehabilitation, and neurologic rehabilitation.
Wilmington Health provides a variety of comprehensive services ranging from primary care to surgical procedures. Its clinical research division participates in an assortment of clinical trials to drive the development of new medications and treatments for patients. Additionally, Wilmington Health’s Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) performs outpatient surgical procedures for a range of specialties.
Complimentary transportation is available at all of our partner independent living communities in Wilmington. In some cases, complimentary rides may be limited to appointments and errands. Transportation for off-site activities and community outings may be provided as well, but at-cost.
As for transportation infrastructure in general, Wilmington itself is a very walkable city with access to public transit and other transportation services for seniors. Explore some of the different ways to navigate Wilmington below.
You and your visiting ones can cruise around Wilmington using Wilmington’s public transit system — the Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (also known as Wave Transit). Wave operates 12 fixed-bus routes that make hundreds of stops throughout its Wilmington service area. A discounted fare is available for seniors age 65+ who have a red, white, and blue Medicare card or photo ID.
The Wave-operated Port City Trolley is another public transportation option available in Wilmington. The trolley traverses all five of Wilmington’s downtown districts and is a great way to visit local shops, restaurants, and museums. There’s no fare charged to ride the trolley, and it operates daily, except for some holidays.
Seniors in New Hanover County may be able to participate in the New Hanover County Senior Resource Center’s transportation program. The program provides two monthly round-trip visits to medical appointments in the county, as well as coordinated trips to and from the center and occasional shopping trips. To access the program, you must complete the application process, be age 60 or older, and not receive Medicaid. You can call 910-798-6401 for more information about the program.
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Wilmington is a haven for seniors with an ideal blend of outdoor and indoor activities. We touch on just some of the attractions and experiences you’ll find in Wilmington below. You can also visit the Wilmington tourism website to discover even more destinations.
Wilmington is anything but short of shopping options for those wishing to peruse the city’s local shopping villages and centers. From brand names to one-of-a-kind local treasures, Wilmington is sure to provide a divine shopping experience for all styles and budgets. Check out some of Wilmington’s local retail spots below.
Wilmington’s lovely weather makes it a perfect spot to enjoy golf throughout most of the year. Take a look at some of the top golf courses you’ll find in and nearby Wilmington.
It’s easy to spend a day beach hopping with three island beach towns nearby. Wrightsville Beach is jam-packed with watersports galore for those who enjoy activities like surfing and kayaking. Kure Beach is about 18 miles from Wilmington and is home to Kure Beach Fishing Pier — one of the oldest on the Atlantic Coast — and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Carolina Beach is another seaside escape with popular attractions that include the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Carolina Beach State Park, and Carolina Beach Pier.
Wilmington’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River promises a diverse selection of local flora and fauna. Flourishing gardens, pristine parks, and lovely trails are just some of the area’s natural wonders to enjoy exploring in Wilmington. Here are just a couple of the magnificent parks and gardens you can find in Wilmington.
Wilmington is home to some spectacular performing arts venues. From historic theaters to outdoor amphitheaters, take a look at some venues to catch a variety of performances in Wilmington.
Arbor Landing at Compass Pointe, Arbor Landing at Ocean Isle and Arbor Landing at Hampstead are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Wilmington, NC. 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 Wilmington is 4,015 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.
Smart Asset. (2021). North Carolina retirement tax friendliness.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Wilmington. [Data set]. American community survey.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Personal care services (PCS).
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Home health services.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Community alternatives program for disabled adults (CAP/DA).
Medicare.gov. Home health services.
North Carolina Department of Insurance. Get help paying your Medicare costs.
Code of Ordinances. (2023, March 08). Chapter 16 —buildings and building regulations. In Code of Ordinances City of Wilmington, North Carolina.
Legal Aid of North Carolina. Landlord/tenant law.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Housing discrimination under the fair housing act.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103): Wilmington. [Data set]. American community survey.
Walk Score. (2021). Wilmington, North Carolina.
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