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The historic city of Philadelphia consistently ranks among the top cities to retire in, and for good reason. With world-class museums, over five professional sports teams, and a seemingly unlimited selection of dining options, Philadelphia is anything but short on things to see and do. For retirees looking to lead a maintenance- and hassle-free life, A Place for Mom partners with 23 independent living communities within 10 miles of Philadelphia’s Center City district. These independent living communities offer all the benefits of living in one’s own home or apartment, but with bonus amenities for seniors like housekeeping, maintenance, social event calendars, and sometimes even meal plan options.
There are many factors to consider when trying to find the right community for you or your loved one, so we make it easy with our guide to independent living in Philadelphia. Explore the costs of Philadelphia independent living communities, their state regulations, and the types of services and amenities they offer. We’ve also included reviews from real residents, advice from local senior living experts, and information on senior living demographics in Philadelphia. Additionally, you’ll find helpful state resources for Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents, given the proximity between the two.
Types of care available in Philadelphia, PA
Independent Living
We chose this facility because I thought it would fit my brother-in-laws personality better. He is in a community where there are 3 or 4 suites, almost like a motel set-up. He has a dog so he is able to go out the front or back door, its more private and personal. His cottage is good sized, it has a bedroom, bathroom, living room, and kitchenette, we are happy with the size. He is entitled to one meal a day, and he has not had any complaints about the food. I would definitely recommend Friends Village. I could not ask for anything better for him.
Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line is a very spread out facility for independent living, but the section for assisted living is more condensed and tight knit. For independent living they offer a studio apartment, one bedroom or two bedroom apartment. They have tons of activities provided for residents to participate in. There is a huge indoor pool clubs, bistro bar etc. Tons to do. I would recommend Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line to others looking. It feels more home like and has beautiful surroundings.
There could have more activities for the residents, some days they are bored. The place is spotless. The people are very nice. As far as I can tell they are doing a good job. I've heard some of the residents say they don't like the choices, but the menu looks good to me. They need to have more exciting options. I've heard the residents say they don't care for the activities they have, the calendar appears full, but maybe asking them what they'd like to do and incorporate new things might be good. Seems to be in line with other places. It's pricey but it is a very nice place so I think it's priced fair.
6401 Martins Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111
600 E Cathedral Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19128
That was a real nice place but it's just too expensive. My mother really liked it!
1600 N 8th St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
1101 W Girard Ave # 112, Philadelphia, PA 19123
319 W Chelten Ave # 102, Philadelphia, PA 19144
1001 Green St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
221 W Johnson St, Philadelphia, PA 19144
4104 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Robinson Personal Care Home is a senior living community located in Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia is a very busy city and home to about 1.5 million people. Residents can find a host of activities to partake in, including going to restaurants, doing their shopping, going to games, concerts and...
935 N 42nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
642 N 41st St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
1000 Atlantic Ave, Camden, NJ 08104
2050 S 58th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143
1515 the Fairway # 1, Rydal, PA 19046
1551 Huntington Pike, Huntingdon Vly, PA 19006
2317 Church Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
1400 Waverly Rd # 1, Gladwyne, PA 19035
9503 State Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19114
84 N Lansdowne Ave, Lansdowne, PA 19050
117 E Atlantic Ave, Haddon Heights, NJ 08035
601 N Ithan Ave # 1, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
1005 Wesley Ave, National Park, NJ 08063
309 Bridgeboro Rd, Moorestown, NJ 08057
Philadelphia independent living communities typically cost an average of $4,399 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount is what actual families paid and includes extra costs for care and optional add-on services — painting a more accurate picture of what families can truly expect to pay for independent living in Philadelphia. Compared to the national average, independent living in Philadelphia is comparatively less expensive than other large cities in the region, such as New York City ($6,184 per month) and Boston ($5,774 per month).
At first blush, it might seem more cost-effective to continue aging in your own home rather than moving into an independent living community. However, independent living communities offer a variety of benefits and amenities to seniors, which can include:
Many independent living communities have a baseline monthly fee, as well as entrance fees and optional monthly add-on fees, a la carte fees, and pet fees. Keep in mind to ask all prospective communities what is included in the baseline rent to avoid paying for extra services that aren’t needed.
The costs below represent starting costs and don’t take into account extra expenses for add-ons, care services, and entrance fees at independent living communities.
9.88 miles from you
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11.28 miles from you
Unlike some other types of senior care communities, rent in an independent living community is not covered by long-term care insurance, Medicare, or Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, Medical Assistance (MA). Most seniors use a variety of private sources to pay for an independent living community.
Sources of retirement income from pensions, Social Security benefits, and an IRA or 401k are often the first funds considered to pay for independent living. These assets can go a long way for senior Philadelphians, as Pennsylvania doesn’t tax retirement income for residents ages 59 1/2 and older.
While these funds may be enough for some, others may look for additional options to cover the costs of independent living. Thankfully, there are additional private pay options that can help pay for independent living. Read on for some other ways people typically pay for their move to an independent living community.
Since residents in independent living communities generally don’t need help with personal tasks or taking care of themselves, many of the on-site services don’t need to be regulated by the state. However, independent living communities that offer medical care and skilled nursing services on-site are more heavily regulated and are required to comply with state and federal regulations, such as:
All businesses in Philadelphia are required to obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL), and long-term rental properties must have a rental license and meet the city’s zoning requirements. Additionally, the city has regulations in force to make sure these properties maintain a safe living environment. These regulations hold independent living community property owners accountable for the following:
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Authority (FHA) have laws in place to prevent housing discrimination for individuals with disabilities. Under these regulations, a person with a disability can make reasonable modifications to their living areas that help them use and enjoy their home. Residents are also allowed to live with a service animal, as long as there is a disability-related need for the animal.
You can learn more about specific Pennsylvania senior living regulations by contacting the following state agencies listed below.
Pennsylvania Department of Aging
555 Walnut St., 5th.Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1919
Phone: 717-783-1550
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Health and Welfare Building
625 Forster St., 8th Floor West
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 877-724-3258
New Jersey Department of Health
55 N. Willow St.
Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: 1-800-367-6543
Camden County Senior Services Division
512 Lakeland Road, #4
Blackwood, NJ 08012
Phone: 856-858-3220
Philadelphia independent living communities are advised to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety protocols for COVID-19. As of November 2022, there aren’t any COVID-19 restrictions or mandates in place for independent senior living settings. However, private institutions, including independent living communities and other types of senior care settings, may have stricter procedures in place than the city does for masking and vaccine requirements.
You can get the most up-to-date information by contacting a community directly or by looking up your local Area Agency on Aging. The Department of Human Services also has a list of COVID-19 guidelines for senior facilities, which is revised upon any changes to policies.
Division of Disease Control
1101 Market St., 13th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-685-5488
New Jersey Department of Health
369 S. Warren St.
Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone: 800-367-6543
Since older adults are at a greater risk for COVID-19 complications, many Philadelphia independent living communities are continuing to take precautions to protect residents and prevent the spread, which may include:
Masking. Masks are recommended in public spaces and common areas in independent living communities.
Facility safety. Independent living communities should have visitor policies for hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Vaccinations. Residents, staff, and visitors are encouraged to be up to date on all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters.
Cleanliness. Highly touched surfaces are regularly disinfected and sanitized to meet guidelines set by the CDC.
Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
There are several options for independent living communities in Philadelphia. The key differences between communities lie in the on-site services and amenities available, as well as location. Whether you prefer the fast-paced nature of the Center City or something a little more low-key, Philadelphia’s metro area has ample independent living options to suit all lifestyles.
Philadelphia’s Center City urban scene delivers a diverse selection of independent living communities to meet a variety of tastes, budgets, and care needs. Venture to the heart of Center City to find modern apartment environments with oversized windows, city views, and stainless-steel appliances. Independent living communities in this area offer urban retreats with historic charm, impeccable landscaping, and peaceful walking paths. These communities typically offer amenities like restaurant-style dining featuring international cuisines, on-site beauty salons, and enriching activity schedules — such as holiday parties, day trips, and stretching classes. Some independent living communities even give their residents access to on-site care services, like assisted living and memory care, so seniors can age in place without worry.
While the fast-paced lifestyle may be better suited for some, other seniors may opt for Philadelphia’s surrounding suburbs for a quieter lifestyle or to be closer to family. These suburban communities sit about 10 miles or further from Philadelphia’s bustling Center City district on the New Jersey side of the metro area. You’ll find many of these communities have cozy, homelike interior spaces with traditional furnishings and an abundance of natural light. They also typically offer an ample selection of amenities, like complimentary transportation, housekeeping, and concierge services. They also host engaging social activities like art classes, garden clubs, and live musical performances. While some of these independent living communities are exclusively for active independent seniors, you’ll find some that also provide care resources, like access to assisted living or memory care services on-site, for aging in place.
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Percentage of Philadelphian seniors age 65+ with retirement income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of seniors in Philadelphia age 75+, per the U.S. Census Bureau
While some Philadelphia independent living communities offer access to on-site health care professionals, others don’t. Either way, there are many acclaimed hospitals in the Philadelphia area that specialize in both complex and everyday procedures. This includes hospitals in nearby Wynnewood, Paoli, and Newark, Delaware.
The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is the No. 1 ranking hospital in both Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, as well as No. 13 on the U.S. News and World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll. This highly regarded facility also ranks nationally in 12 adult specialties and as a high-performing hospital in two adult specialties and 19 procedures and conditions.
Jefferson University Hospital is nationally ranked in nine adult specialties that include cancer, cardiology, heart surgery, and diabetes. It’s the No. 2 hospital in Philadelphia and No. 3 in Pennsylvania. The Center City campus offers free shuttle services, as well as interpreter services and hearing devices.
Lankenau Medical Center is part of Main Line Health and is the No. 3 hospital in Philadelphia. It’s also Pennsylvania’s No. 6 hospital. The comprehensive medical facility is recognized as a high-performing hospital in specialties that range from cardiology, hip fractures, and lung cancer surgery to diabetes.
Christiana Hospital is one of three hospitals under the renowned health care organization, ChristianaCare. It’s considered the No. 4 hospital in Philadelphia and is nationally ranked in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN). Christiana Hospital’s Center for Heart and Vascular Health performs over 1,000 open-heart surgeries a year and offers access to cutting-edge technology, treatments, and therapies.
Although Philadelphia ranks among the country’s top walkable cities, reliable transportation is equally essential when it comes to maintaining an independent lifestyle in the city. This is why many independent living communities offer their residents shuttle services or private transportation options. And even when they do not, local public transportation provides the freedom to go where you need to go on your own time — whether to appointments, the grocery store, or sightseeing.
Philadelphia’s public transportation system is especially accommodating and accessible for the city’s seniors. Seniors ages 65 and older can apply for a Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) senior fare card and enjoy free transit on the city’s bus, trolley, and rail lines. For those seeking adventure outside the city limits, the senior fare card permits free travel throughout Pennsylvania on SEPTA’s Regional Rail line, and also offers a 50% discount to and from Delaware and New Jersey stations.
Much like a city’s public transportation system, its walkability is an important factor to living independently. Philadelphia ranks among the most walkable cities in the country, with access to restaurants, stores, and bars within minutes.
You can discover even more available transportation services and discounts by contacting the Mayor’s Commission on Aging, included in the information below.
Mayor’s Commission on Aging
100 S. Broad St., 4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Phone: 215-686-8450
SEPTA
1234 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-580-7800
NJ Transit
Customer Service: 973-275-5555
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A city rich in history, Philadelphia is home to striking colonial architecture and famous sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Among the many historic attractions, you’ll find an abundance of renowned art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can also enjoy running up the famed “Rocky steps” and recreating the iconic scene.
Those who prefer a more low-impact approach to exploring the city will enjoy strolling through the numerous parks and walking trails. The sprawling Rittenhouse Square serves as an urban sanctuary with mature trees and downtown views, while Spruce Street Harbor Park features incomparable waterfront views of the Delaware River.
Culture flows like electricity throughout Philadelphia’s vibrant neighborhoods, and it’s especially apparent among the city’s passionate sports fan base and food scene. Cheering on Philly’s teams is a time-honored tradition, whether you’re enjoying a game at a community watch party or at one of Philadelphia’s famed sports bars. An equally important ritual of the city’s culture is indulging in an almost endless selection of Philadelphia dining options — ranging from classic Philly staples and genuine Italian cuisine to British pub-style fare.
Arbour Square, Keystone Villa at Fleetwood and Keystone Villa at Douglassville Independent Living are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Philadelphia, PA. 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 Philadelphia is 4,329 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Philadelphia City [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates (S0103): Philadelphia City.
Philadelphia Department of Public Health Division of COVID-19 Containment. (2022, November 8). Personal communication [Personal email].
Walk Score. (2021). Living in Philadelphia.
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