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Houston is home to the largest senior population in Texas, making it a hotspot for health care, outdoor activities, and senior living options. Independent living senior communities are designed for 55+ adults, so seniors can reside alongside individuals in their same stage of life. A Place for Mom partners with 11 independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Houston. These communities enable aging adults to enjoy a carefree retirement with convenient services, like on-site maintenance, housekeeping, and meal plans, that make daily life easier.
In this guide, we’ve put together a wealth of information on Houston’s independent living facilities, so prospective residents can find their ideal community. We use our 20+ years of senior living experience, proprietary data on local communities, and feedback from seniors and their families to inform you on local independent living costs, services and amenities, state regulations, and even payment tips. Each section also includes valuable senior-specific, local resources and demographics.
Types of care available in Houston, TX
Independent Living
My loved one is currently a resident at Elison Park Independent Living and most everything has been great for her at this facility so far. The cleanliness and friendliness are great. The meals and activities are also great. As for the value for cost, they substantially raise the rent every year. They did cut the amount that they raised my loved one's rent in half after she went and complained. Overall, I would recommend Elison Park to others.
All of the categories are a 5. What I like the most about Tarrytowne Estates are the employees, they have long term investment and do their best to meet one's needs whether that be large or small. I have run into visitors once or twice and always encouraged them to really consider Tarrytowne Estates!
5 on all of the above categories, it has been an excellent experience at Optimum Personal Care - Sugar Land. The facility is very clean and the staff is very Godly, which meant a lot to our family. I absolutely recommend this facility to anybody looking for assisted living.
11424 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77082
Atria Westchase is an assisted living and memory care community Houston, Texas. Houston is an exciting city located in Harris County, and it is widely known for its diversity, its arts and theatre scene and its recreational amenities. Whether you are planning a weekend trip to Houston or...
My loved one is currently a resident at Atria Westchase and overall the experience at this facility has been very good for her. The cleanliness and friendliness are great. The staff is also great. The care...
5151 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77005
If you’re ready to trade your hedge clippers for golf clubs, our independent living community might be the perfect fit for you. Because when it comes to chores, less is more—more time for you to do what you want to do.So how do you want to spend your days? Here are just a few of the fun things...
I would tell a friend that, my finicky, wishy-washy, persnickety father LOVES the places AND actually eats the food, so it is a WIN/WIN! And that I would recommend it for anyone concerned about having a...
16700 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77090
They are a great staff that understands the challenges of families. This was a challenging time and they helped walk us through the process. Extremely caring and knowledgeable staff. Recommend the...
19929 Chasewood Park Road, Houston, TX 77070
The Best That Senior Living Has to OfferIt’s time to discover what luxury senior living can look like. Trade cooking, cleaning and chores for a life surrounded by interesting things to do and interesting people to do them with. Our community is located in Houston, Texas and provides personalized...
From the first visit through to the day I, unfortunately, had to move my husband out, the people at Solana Vintage Park have been amazingly helpful and friendly. During the tour and throughout the move-in...
11900 Barryknoll Lane, Houston, TX 77024
Trade home maintenance for more time to do what you want to do. At our independent living community in Houston, Texas, you can start your day with a swim in our heated outdoor pool maybe try a line dancing class Or maybe you want to explore your creative side with an art class in our arts and...
My dad liked the location, staff and it was in his budget. When it rained/stormed, the lights were out 3 days. A senior apartment should have backup generators. I am glad my dad got to spend his last...
12102 Steepleway Blvd, Houston, TX 77065
Embark on the best years of your life at Village on the Park. Enjoy active senior living at its finest and discover active senior living at its finest! Our convenient location in Northwest Houston is within easy reach from downtown Houston, Galleria and the 290 corridor. Imagine a spacious...
I know that it is difficult to balance activities that are basic that everyone can do with one's that would interest more capable residents. Staff have been very friendly. Overall I would recommend...
2855 Westminster Plaza Dr, Houston, TX 77082
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza is privately owned and operated by a Texas family with over 60 years of industry experience. Our Senior Living Community offers spacious 55+ Luxury Independent Living apartments designed to suit your lifestyle so you can finally focus on the things you love! With...
From planting flowers and yelling bingo to shopping Walmart and excursions around the town, The Abby has a little bit for everyone. My mom moved in last year and it has taken her a long time to adjust to her...
10680 Westbrae Pkwy, Houston, TX 77031
Lone Star Living is an affordable all-inclusive retirement community, conveniently located minutes from shops, restaurants, hospitals and various Jewish synagogues. We offer a variety of amenities to simplify your life, including 3 chef-prepared meals daily, a brand new 200 foot dog run, library,...
5 for all! The staff is so helpful and attentive. It is a great place for my Dad to live, he loves the people and the food. We are thankful for Lone Star. We would recommend this community to other families...
8580 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77063
Overall excellent, mom is mostly happy there but does sometimes gripe about service now being fast enough... given that she's VERY demanding. The staff i have met there are very nice... my mom doesn't like...
17705 Red Oak Drive, Houston, TX 77090
Redefine your independence with extra help with the little things. At our assisted living community just outside of Houston, we can help out with things—like simple housekeeping and meals—and with more involved activities, such as bathing, getting dressed and managing medications. Here you can...
I give a 5 for all now but in the beginning it was quite confusing regarding medication administration. They kept messing up and could have potentially caused a medical emergency. We visit each week and the...
7575 Willow Chase Blvd Hwy 249 near 1960, Houston, TX 77070
Introducing Elison Park: Helping Houston Seniors Retire in Style and Reenvision Their IndependenceAre you looking for Independent Senior Living in Houston, TX? Are you ready to slow life down and embrace a hassle-free lifestyle? Wouldn’t it be nice to make new friends and gain a new perspective...
The security at Elison Park Independence Living community is great; day or night, no issues. Have made some nice friends; occasionally I go to activities but not much, no issues, just stay busy with family...
1815 Enclave Pkwy, Houston, TX 77077
Greetings and Welcome to Tarrytowne Estates All-Inclusive Retirement Community!We are one big family here at Tarrytowne and satisfaction of our residents is always our top priority. We completed a full remodel of Tarrytowne Estates just last year. The grounds are gorgeous, the apartments are...
Wonderful place to be. Everyone is so welcoming and helpful. From the day I moved in, the staff knew my name. Always eager to help with anything. Food is outstanding, like a gourmet restaurant. Love it...
9889 Kempwood Drive, Houston, TX 77080
Go do the things you love, and let us help with the rest.If you’re looking to redefine your independence with a little extra help, our senior living community with both assisted living and memory care could be the right fit for you. Here you’ll have the care you need when you need it. Plus,...
I would highly recommend Brookdale. The care my mother in law receives is outstanding. The staff really know her and treat her extremely well. We filled out a long questionnaire about her past, the staff...
7667 Woodway Drive, Houston, TX 77063
Our Memorial-area community offers residents an active lifestyle in an ideal location. Conveniently situated minutes from the Galleria and just a short drive from the Texas Medical Center, residents have easy access to premier shopping, dining and entertainment, along with world-class medical...
Everybody was so caring there. My dad had struggled so long with his disabilities as he refused any help at all in his old assisted living facility as it unfortunately was not run very well. The care staff...
2121 Pinegate Drive, Houston, TX 77008
There’s a lot for you to love here.With both assisted living and memory care, at our community, you’ll have the care you need, when you need it. For memory care residents, we offer a program, also known as Clare Bridge. Rooted in “a person-centered approach,” our memory care program helps our...
It is apparent they genuinely care about their residents. They strive to meet all of their needs: physical, emotional, and social. Offering options for most meals would be helpful.
14050 Cutten Road, Houston, TX 77069
Here you get to define your day every day.If you’re living a mostly independent lifestyle, but you could use an extra hand with some of your day-to-day activities, Brookdale Champions in Houston with both assisted living and memory care could be right for you. Enjoy a carefree lifestyle when you...
My loved one is currently a resident at Brookdale Champions and her experience has been great so far. The staff and care services are great. The cleanliness and friendliness are also great. Anytime that we...
1600 Augusta Dr, Houston, TX 77057
Providing excellent service, a professional approach and a willingness to go the extra mile every day allows our team to surpass other retirement communities.' Located in a distinctive neighborhood, The Village of Tanglewood is a five story mid-rise community with easy access to theaters, the...
The food is very good but the wait time has become an issue as they have less dining staff than in the past. Would be nice if they offered more outings to the arts. Also working on building maintenance is...
19400 Space Center Blvd, Houston, TX 77058
The Shores at Clear Lake understands the importance of community, and we invite you to join ours.Nestled in beautiful Clear Lake, Texas with our warm and inviting Mediterranean-style building, The Shores at Clear Lake Senior Living offers resort-style accommodations with exceptional and...
I am currently a resident at The Shores at Clearlake and the experience has been good for me overall, so far. They do seem to be short of help in the dining area a lot of the time. But overall it is a nice...
11500 Fallbrook Dr, Houston, TX 77065
At Morada Cy-Fair we offer senior living designed to meet the needs of seniors at various life stages ranging from independent living to assisted living and a SHINE® memory care community. We are located less than an hour from downtown Houston and about an hour from Galveston. Our residents enjoy...
It has been a decent experience overall, but when it comes to the cleanliness they need to do a better job cleaning the rooms and bathroom as well as completing laundry service. They hire nice people but...
2315 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77098
Houston seniors deserve the very best. If you are looking for the most exceptional assisted living Houston offers, we invite you to consider the contemporary styling of MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at River Oaks, in the Upper Kirby District. MorningStar provides residents with...
My mom is currently a resident at MorningStar at River Oaks and the experience has been good so far. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. The food is top tier. We have regular meals with my mom in their...
505 Bering Dr, Houston, TX 77057
The Farrington at Tanglewood is a prominent senior living community in Houston, Texas that offers assisted living and memory care services. Houston is a family-friendly city that is home to several museums, eclectic shopping, and diverse dining choices. There is something for everyone to enjoy in...
It (nor any similar business) is not perfect, but they do appear to genuinely care about the residents. Based off of our experience, I would recommend them to others looking.
303 Lantern Bend Drive, Houston, TX 77090
You get to define your day every day.If you’re living a mostly independent lifestyle, but you could use an extra hand with some of your day-to-day activities, our senior living community could be right for you. With both assisted living and memory care, you’ll have the care you need when you need...
The business manager answered all of our questions and was able to provide an excellent care plan for my mother. I highly recommend.
2501 Westerland Drive, Houston, TX 77063
Treemont Retirement Community is Houston's 'Retirement Tradition,' with a key strength being its long-tenured staff and a warm, friendly environment. Residents say, staff "spoil us" "make us feel special" and "take the time to know us individually."Treemont is an excellent value for seniors given...
Since my friend is in independent living he does not need much care yet....the staff is friendly , sometimes office people hard to reach my friend does not eat there Apartment sizes are good... he has one...
14101 Bay Pointe Court, Houston, TX 77062
Reunion Court of Clear Lake is located on the south eastern side of Houston Texas less than 12 miles from Galveston Bay. We are in a quiet neighborhood overlooking Sylvan Rodriguez Park. Reunion Court of Clear Lake offers assisted living for those seniors needing help with daily activities and...
It is a very nice community. Our loved one had dementia and it was very hard for her to be happy but, I feel the care givers tried very hard to make her feel comfortable and happy. They seemed to always have...
2555 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX 77025
At Braeswood Estates we acknowledge that every individual requires different levels of care at varying points of their lives. We are dedicated to providing specialized care specifically tailored to each resident’s unique needs throughout the aging experience. Our levels of care include assisted...
Overall, we have been very pleased with the care of my brother. He has been taken care of better than the hospital and skilled nursing facility where he had temporary stays. Braeswood Estates has proven to...
The median rent cost of independent senior living in Houston is $2,820 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data of partner communities. This figure excludes any additional fees for amenities and care services. You’ll find that independent living facilities in Houston have a lot to offer at an affordable price. These costs can include, but are not limited to, the following:
The below costs give an area comparison of average senior independent living costs and don’t necessarily account for any additional fees, such as meal plans or extra services.
8.99 miles from you
Your zip code
9.77 miles from you
Medicaid and Medicare don’t cover independent living senior community costs, as these are not considered long-term care communities. So, Houston seniors typically combine their personal resources to pay for independent senior living. Houston veterans may also use their veteran benefits to offset some costs for independent living in Houston, Texas.
It’s important to note that if you’re planning for care needs that may arise in the future, Medicaid and Medicare may be used to cover some in-home care services or care expenses in assisted living or memory care communities.
Private pay methods include a senior’s savings accounts, Social Security benefits, retirement pensions, investment returns, and more.
Note: Long-term care insurance doesn’t typically apply to independent living communities, as these policies usually only cover medical care costs in senior care communities. However, learning about long-term care insurance can be useful for future planning, in case a transfer to an assisted living care facility ever becomes necessary.
Also note: Texas is one of the few states in the nation without personal income tax, saving you from paying additional taxes on Social Security benefits or other retirement income.[02,03]
Read on for some insights into other ways you might pay for independent senior living costs:
Independent living communities in Houston are not regulated by a state agency. However, most of our partner Houston communities share their campus with an assisted living facility. This means they are required to comply with assisted living licensing and regulation requirements set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the HHS. Texas independent living facilities with an assisted living facility on the same campus are required to regulate the following in order to pass inspections and stay licensed:
Stand-alone independent living facilities aren’t regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services, but they are still required to comply with Texas’ general housing and apartment standards for landlords and tenants. It’s important for seniors and their families to understand their tenant rights to ensure a safe, satisfactory living situation while renting. Below, you’ll find a brief summary of tenants’ rights in Texas:
Before making any major decisions in a tenant-landlord dispute, it’s strongly recommended that a tenant consults with an attorney or tenants association. Consulting a housing expert is the best way to ensure that you don’t breach any lease agreements and will ultimately help you get the outcome you want.
If you’d like more information on your rights as a tenant in a Texas independent living facility, see this Tenants’ Rights Handbook.
Tenants with disabilities also have the right to request reasonable accommodations and modifications when they rent from any property owner. Reasonable accommodations are changes to community policies, and modifications are structural changes to common areas or individual units. These accommodations or modifications could include the following scenarios:
For detailed examples and information on reasonable accommodations and modifications, see the Texas Department of Housing and Human Affairs’ infographic. Also note that property owners may lawfully deny a request if the modification poses an undue financial and administrative burden.
Neither Houston nor Texas have specific COVID-19 regulations for independent living communities. However, independent living communities with an assisted living unit on-site must comply with any guidelines set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC). The HHSC retired its COVID-19 response plan for assisted living facilities in January of 2023, but facilities are still required to develop their own infection prevention and control measures regarding masks, physical distancing, and additional protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE) during an active infection or outbreak.
Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
Houston is home to the highest population of seniors in Texas. So, naturally, the city’s independent living communities check every box when it comes to helping seniors find their home — because the market is competitive. To learn exactly how Houston communities work to keep seniors healthy and happy, check out the following Houston independent living features:
It’s common practice for independent living to be provided in assisted living facilities or continuing care retirement communities. In fact, almost all of our partner independent living communities in Houston are on a campus that provides multiple care types, namely assisted living and memory care. Many communities even partner with third-party home care agencies on-site for seniors seeking advanced care services.
To further accommodate senior residents, many of these communities take extra security measures to make sure residents and their belongings remain safe. For example, most of our partnered communities have 24-hour staffing and a secured, gated campus with video-monitored entrances and exits.
Many of our independent living communities help seniors lead active lifestyles, free of daily stresses and chores. While residents are off enjoying their beloved hobbies and pastimes, staff members take care of the cleaning, maintenance, and landscaping. Most of our partner communities offer in-unit housekeeping and laundry services. Staff will also happily coordinate transportation, ensuring residents get from place to place safely. Plus, residents don’t have to worry about leaving the community for a haircut, as some partner communities offer on-site beauticians to provide new styles, colors, beard trimmings, and more.
Independent living residents are often looking to form new friendships and connections. That is precisely why many of our in-network Houston communities provide shared amenities, gathering spaces, and a myriad of on-site activities. Residents are free to gather in on-site arts and crafts centers, libraries, movie theaters, lounges, pubs, and more. They can also choose to attend events and activities hosted by the community. Many communities have a rotating calendar filled with interest-centered club meetings, fitness classes, off-site trips, holiday parties, birthday celebrations, and more.
Many seniors find themselves wary of Houston’s traffic as they age, so they tend to gravitate toward the city’s suburbs for retirement. Some of the most popular Houston suburbs for retirement include Sugar Land and Katy. These cities offer master-planned communities filled with community parks, pools, and courts. Residents in both cities also benefit from a range of amenities, enjoy cuisines from all around the world, shop local boutiques and name-brand stores, and explore niche museums. Plus, the spacious nature of the suburbs enables independent living communities to maximize their on-site amenities.
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Percentage of Houston seniors 65+ that are retired from the workforce, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Aging adults have access to many health care facilities in Houston — some of which are nationally ranked in geriatrics. Below, you’ll learn more about what Houston’s top-rated hospitals have to offer.
Houston Methodist Hospital is the No. 1 hospital in Texas and Houston, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in 10 specialties, including No. 22 in geriatrics, No. 15 in neurology, and No. 11 in orthopedics.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is the No. 2 hospital in Houston and is nationally ranked in six specialties, including No. 43 in geriatrics, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Memorial Hermann Hospital is No. 3 in Houston and is high performing in seven specialties, including diabetes, orthopedics, and cardiology, according to U.S. News and World Report.
MD Anderson is the No. 1 cancer center in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s the largest cancer center in the U.S. and is also nationally ranked in geriatrics, diabetes, and urology. It’s world-renowned for its evolving research and high level of care.
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is a popular veteran hospital in Texas. It’s known for providing a wide array of services, including a range of health, legal, and even caregiver resources.
There are several ways to get around in Houston, but due to the city’s urban sprawl, most residents own cars. Luckily, many of our in-network independent living facilities enable residents to travel safely by providing complimentary or at-cost transportation services.
However, some communities only offer rides to a limited number of events, such as strictly to appointments, errands, etc., so knowing your public transportation options will come in handy. Houston’s most popular public transportation method is METRO. It offers buses, rails, and paratransit services throughout Harris County. Houston residents who are 65+ or have a disability may also qualify for RIDES.
Additionally, active seniors may benefit from checking out the following scores from WalkScore. Each score is out of 100 and based on hyperlocal data on Houston’s public density, walking routes, public transit options, biking trails, and more:
47
36
49
As Texas’ largest city, the saying “everything’s bigger in Texas” rings true in Houston. The diverse city proclaims itself as the cultural capital of the South. To live up to this claim, the city works to accommodate the interests of all ages — most importantly, seniors. Aging adults can enjoy the city’s robust shopping and dining options, participate in senior programs at local community centers, or explore the following types of attractions:
Note that many of these attractions provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and some even offer senior discounts. To confirm the exact accommodations and specials available, be sure to inquire about each respective location prior to your visit.
Watercrest at Shadow Creek Ranch, Watercrest at Kingwood and Watermere at Woodland Lakes are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Houston, TX. 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 Houston is 4,297 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.
TurboTax. (2022, September 7). States with the lowest taxes and the highest taxes.
Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).
Texas Young Lawyers Association & State Bar of Texas. (2019). Tenants’ Rights Handbook.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2023, January 11). HHSC retires ALF COVID-19 response plan and COVID-19 FAQs.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
WalkScore. (2023). Living in Houston.
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