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A haven for outdoor lovers, art aficionados, and music enthusiasts, Seattle is an ideal option for people looking for independent living options with activities and amenities close by while still supporting their newest phase of life.
Independent living doesn’t provide the personal care or health assistance long-term care facilities offer but is ideal if you’re looking for a community feeling with amenities such as:
In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the best independent living communities in Seattle. With 37 facilities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Seattle (and an additional 39 communities in a 25-mile radius), there are options to fit several needs. You’ll also learn about cost and payment options, laws that guide independent living, and the types of services and amenities on offer in Seattle.
Types of care available in Seattle, WA
Independent Living
It's been fine here. Everyone here is about the same as the other buildings I've lived at. I'm very independent, so everyone pretty much leaves me alone. I'm happy here and feel good here.
I can confidently rate Aegis of Kirkland a 5 out of 5. My brother and I found Aegis to be very clean in all the common areas as well as private areas. The food is excellent, and the staff is compassionate. They have several activities going on throughout the day. There is something that should appeal to anyone tastes. [name removed], the marketing manager, was so helpful during the transition process.
This is a nice community. The apartments are a nice size and roomy. They have a good list of activities for the residents to choose from. They have friendly front desk staff. My loved one seems to enjoy the food.
4611 35th Avenue Southwest, Seattle, WA 98126
At our retirement community offering independent and assisted living options for seniors, we’re here to help you seize your new opportunities and make the most of them. For independent living residents, it might mean trading in the chores of home and yard maintenance for time to pursue a...
The facility is clean, warm, and quite satisfactory, and rooms are cleaned weekly professionally. Food is delicious and timely, never heard unkind words or been treated roughly. Very helpful when needed....
805 4th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
At Queen Anne Retirement Community, our exceptional staff, engaging activities, and active social life make our residents happy to call our community home.Queen Anne Retirement Community offers luxurious independent living and assisted living, with stunning surroundings, amazing amenities, and...
Cogir was very good just didn't work for him. I liked the facility a lot but [name removed] was difficult. His health is better done so he is doing better at [facility name removed]. I liked the location...
1421 Minor Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill is perfect for those who like being near boutique shopping, theaters, concert and lecture halls and much more. This friendly retirement community is in the First Hill neighborhood, where many of Seattle's best known and highest quality medical practices are...
It's been a wonderful place for my mom. Try to negotiate on the non returnable deposit if needed because of your situation or finances. The staff has been great and has very little turn over. Also the...
2615 Southwest Barton Street, Seattle, WA 98126
The Village Green Senior Living tree started with the owners and has branched out through the years. Celebrating over 35 years in West Seattle, we have shared and helped improve the lives of more than 3500 families! Thats a lot of folks that have called Village Green home!At Village Green you...
Lucky for us my mother was able to live at Village Green for the past two years, after the abrupt closing of Vashon Community Care, Vashon Island, WA. She often referred to it as her home. The CNA staff is...
11030 5th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
Conveniently located in the heart of Northgate with easy access to I-5, Northgate Plaza offers high-quality care and an enriched senior living lifestyle within a familiar North Seattle neighborhood. The community is close to the Northgate Mall shops and restaurants as well as public parks, houses...
He's been Northgate Plaza three months so far so good. He is tough but they still keep him. I like the overall feel there and like I say he seems good and engaged. Happy with the food and activities and...
620 Terry Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Specialized Care:Our community offers Enhanced Assisted Living in our Pearl program. We can help with rehabilitation and are trained in Parkinson's Disease Care. Our Opal program is for those needing a safe memory care environment. We focus on socialization and natural therapies to give our...
Picked for combination with independent living and overall opportunities to improve quality of life. I would recommend to others.
10000 Holman Rd NW, Seattle, WA 98177
Aegis Living Greenwood, located in the heart of Northwest Seattle. Each element of our new assisted living and memory care community’s design has been carefully curated to help you live your best. The welcoming stone fireplace encourages residents to gather around to enjoy each other’s company....
The staff in the memory care unit was as caring as any staff could be,. They took my dad on trips as long as he was able. But don't think that you can leave all the care of your loved one up to any staff....
2200 E Madison Street, Seattle, WA 98112
Our Aegis on Madison property includes some unique features that rival some of the nicest hotels and condominiums in Seattle. Every feature has been carefully designed with the safety and joy of our residents in mind. This is your home, but you may feel like every day you are on vacation. On Top...
Staff are extremely friendly. The shared spaces such as the library, theater, and entrance are inviting and beautifully maintained. We enjoy the terrace too!
9001 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
Welcome to Emerald City Senior Living, one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the Queen Anne neighborhood. You’ll find Emerald City located in the upscale upper Queen Anne neighborhood 1 block from Queen Anne Drive with convenient shopping and dining.ASSISTED LIVINGHere at Emerald...
My loved one is a resident at Emerald City Senior Living and overall the experience has been good. The staff and care services have been good. The cleanliness and friendliness are good. My loved one is taken...
3204 SW Morgan St, Seattle, WA 98126
Bridge Park provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment.Situated on charmingly landscaped grounds in a peaceful corner of southwestern Seattle, you'll love the coziness of our community while enjoying the convenience of the nearby city. We're just minutes from...
There has been significant turnover at Bridge Park; three managers, three activities directors, etc. The facility is owned by a hedge fund which has no clue how to run a retirement home, and mistakes have...
116 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
MirabellaMirabella Seattle is a premium-quality assisted living community in the Cascade region of Seattle, King County, Washington. We enjoy an oceanic temperate marine climate with loads of rain from autumn through spring, minimal snow, and warm Mediterranean summers. We endeavor to endow our...
We moved from Hawaii to Seattle to be closer to our children. Seattle is a bit of a disappointment , but the Mirabella Retirement Community makes up for it. The residents are friendly and interesting. The...
4400 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103
Welcome to University House Wallingford, an Era Living community. University House offers a warm, vibrant lifestyle, a vast array of amenities, rich programming, and exceptional Independent Living and Assisted Living care. University House is nestled in the heart of Wallingford, just steps from...
It's awesome. It is expensive but is a great value for the money. My loved one is very active, and the prograamming is amazing at Univeristy House. They have art, field trips and a fitness center. The...
5300 24th Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105
Merrill Gardens at The University provides desirable retirement living near the University of Washington. Take advantage of the University Village outdoor shopping center and tree-lined Burke-Gilman trail; both ideal for strolling and just steps from the front door. Enjoy being close to a...
I don't think I'd recommend it to others. Food is a big deal. My sisters won't eat there so that's not good. I eat there because I'm not as picky.
4700 SW Admiral Way, Seattle, WA 98116
A Beautiful Place to LiveWest-Seattle-thumbnail-300x203Nestled near the Admiral District in vibrant West Seattle, our new Capri-style assisted living community is inspired by the sun-drenched Mediterranean. Here, residents will enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of downtown Seattle and the...
This is a marvelous place for your relative to live. This community is absolutely stunning. I truly do like all of the staff members that provide care for my loved one. They have activities like telling...
11448 Rainier Ave South, Seattle, WA 98178
Welcome to The Lakeshore, an Era Living community. The Lakeshore offers a warm, vibrant lifestyle, a vast array of amenities, rich programming, and exceptional Independent Living and Assisted Living care. The Lakeshore is located on the southern shore of Lake Washington with beautiful panoramic...
The Lake Shore is a wonderful retirement facility with a view of Lake Washington that’s simply breathtaking. The staff are all friendly and helpful and professional. It really feels like a wonderful...
15928 Northeast 8th Street, Bellevue, WA 98008
In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...
The staff keeps me well informed of my dad's status. They have several activities available each day and frequent outings, which are important to us as dad is very social. I would recommend the facility to...
17201 15th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155
Laurel CoveLocated in the heart of Shoreline, this welcoming community features modern yet antique interiors that offer familiarity and nostalgia as you begin a new journey into retirement. The highly trained staff leads with compassion and works tirelessly to help residents preserve their...
I only say 4 for the last one as I know are rates are going up in September, and a friends mom is movie in to a Wesley Homes unit that surprisingly sounds like a better deal. Mom continually tells me how...
11729 NE 118th St, Kirkland, WA 98034
A 55+ community, MorningStar of Kirkland offers 152 apartments for independent living in the beautifully forested Totem Lake area. With easy access to I-405, our community is bordered by Juanita Bay (with its beaches and parks), Evergreen Health Medical Center and the retail center of The Village...
I like the indoor saltwater pool, the gym and the fact they have an on-site physical therapist the most. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming (residents and staff). We have a great life enriching group as...
13350 Southeast 26th Street, Bellevue, WA 98005
The Garden Club provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment.Conveniently located in Bellevue, we offer a friendly, quiet home in the shopping hub of the northwest. You'll love the convenience of being close to world-class shopping, healthcare and a peaceful home to...
I am not at The Gardens anymore. I moved closer to my daughter. As far as the facility goes - it was fine. I had another stroke and my memory is worse. My daughter helps me remember meds and appointments...
15750 NE 15th St, Bellevue, WA 98008
Sagebrook Senior Living at Bellevue is in the town of Bellevue, King County, Washington, situated between Lake Washington to the east and Lake Sammamish to the west. It is a suburb of Seattle and gets its name from the French, meaning 'beautiful view.' Surrounded by mountain views, it is...
Sagebrook made me feel at home and that they cared about my experience as well as my wife's. Although my wife had stopped being responsive to care, they went out of their way to attempt to reach her and...
12629 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
Aegis Lodge, Kirkland At Aegis Lodge in Kirkland, our residents enjoy the best of all: a wonderful well-trained caring staff and an atmosphere difficult to find elsewhere, surrounded by nature, walking paths and five-star dining but yet close to Evergreen Hospital and Seattle's eastside doctors....
We are happy. Working with people and staff changes there were a few hiccups but staff very helpful in working out the bumps.
2956 152nd Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052
Nestled amongst the tall evergreens of Redmond, Overlake Terrace takes advantage of its suburban surroundings. Our accessible yet scenic location makes our community a wonderful place to call home. Overlake Terrace is dedicated to the belief that mature adults deserve to live in a caring...
She's done really great there. We're very happy. It is a much better experience than her previous facility. Very friendly staff. Great help and assistance. Love all the activities. Very easy to get...
12215 NE 128th St, Kirkland, WA 98034
Independent Living Independent living at Madison House provides all the benefits of being at home without the burden of household chores; cooking, cleaning and maintenance. This is a lifestyle that facilitates independence as you age and give you the freedom to pursue your own interests without...
My mom found the residents quite friendly during our initial walk through which ultimately is what made her choose Madison House. The staff are all fabulous. They get to know the residents very quickly...
933 111th Avenue Northeast, Bellevue, WA 98004
Welcome to The Gardens at Town Square, an Era Living community. The Gardens offers a warm, vibrant lifestyle, a vast array of amenities, rich programming, and exceptional Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Located in the heart of downtown Bellevue, The Gardens is just steps...
I was pleased with the care that my loved one received at The Gardens at Town Square. The staff were attentive, kind and caring. I think the ratio of caregivers to number of residents is really good.
1115 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
Blaze Your Own Retirement at The Bellettini Retirement Community. With so many choices in dining, health and wellness, travel, social, and philanthropic opportunities, you will make yourself dizzy as you discover all the ways you can enjoy life. Live simply or scale up services as you wish. Work...
I am giving this input to the best of my knowledge based on feedback I've heard from my parents. I think the location is great, my parents have met a lot of friendly and interesting people. The staff is...
The average monthly cost of independent living in our Seattle network of partners is $5,315 per month, according to proprietary data from A Place for Mom.[01] This cost includes associated fees and service add-ons. This is substantially higher than the national average cost of independent living, which sits at $3,376.[01]
Independent living offers a mix of amenities within the communities but also prioritizes residents’ desires to live as independently as they please. So, while you might see plenty of dining options, on-site barbers and beauty salons, community common areas, and activities, independent living also often provides full kitchens or kitchenettes in rooms, parking, and transportation so it is easy to participate in anything Seattle offers.
The following costs represent only Seattle’s baseline independent living costs, without any add-on fees.
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While insurance programs like Medicaid or Medicare don’t cover independent living because they’re technically not senior care communities, there are ways you can use these resources to fund this new stage in life.
In this section, you will find some of the more common ways people pay for independent living, from private pay options and VA benefits to housing assistance and Medicare and Medicaid resources.
There are several private pay sources to fund the move to independent living. In addition to Social Security benefits, investment returns, and pensions, the following methods are also options:
Because independent living communities aren’t classified as healthcare facilities, they aren’t subject to the same licensing or regulatory oversight that communities like assisted living face. However, because some independent living communities provide services like transportation or dining, they may need to obtain licenses for those specific services.
You may also find your independent living community has a minimum age requirement. This is up to the authority of the community itself, but the minimum age is typically between 55 and 62 years old.
While independent living may not have the same licensing that other long-term care facilities require, they do have to comply with several state and federal laws that protect your rights as a renter.
Additionally, there are maintenance and safety requirements everyone, no matter what type of accommodation they’re in, is entitled to. This includes adequate heat, hot water, plumbing, fire equipment, and timely repairs of anything that is broken. For more in-depth information, consider reading through these resources:
Washington State Department of Health
111 Israel Rd SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
Phone: 800-525-0127
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
While standalone independent living facilities do not have to adhere to any COVID-19 guidelines, most of Seattle’s independent living communities are part of more extensive assisted living or memory care facilities, so you may find COVID-19 guidelines being practiced.
For independent living facilities that are part of another community regulated by the Department of Health, expect guidelines that follow the CDC and the Washington Department of Health’s Interim Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings.
Vaccinations. Up-to-date vaccinations and boosters are recommended for staff and residents.
Masking. If appropriate, staff should wear well-fitting masks.
Facility cleanliness. Ventilation and filtration should be optimized. Dedicated medical equipment should be used when caring for a person with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. Additionally, routine cleaning and disinfection are recommended.[04]
Quarantining. The movement of people with COVID-19 should be limited to medically necessary reasons.
Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
Seattle is an ideal place to live if you value independence. The ninth most walkable city in the United States, Seattle is an excellent option for independent people who enjoy their social life and want to stay as active as they can. Whether it’s shopping at Pike Place Market, participating in one of the many local community groups, or adventuring out to Mount Rainier for the day, there’s something for many different lifestyles.
Residents of independent living communities in Seattle can expect a number of amenities, most of which center around remaining active and keeping up with hobbies. Of our 37 partner communities:
For people who like to spend time outside, almost all of our listings have outside patios.
Seattle’s independent living communities make it easy to get out and enjoy the city, as 97% are conveniently located next to public transportation. In addition, all of our listings offer complimentary transportation.
Each facility offers different amenities and services, which is why our senior living advisors are available to arrange tours for any seniors interested in specific locations.
Many independent living communities in Seattle offer multiple levels of care. That’s because the majority of them aren’t standalone independent living communities. Most of our listings offer a combination of independent living and assisted living or a combination of independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Communities that combine independent living, assisted living, and memory care are progressive in the market and, therefore, great options for care seekers in Seattle.
These types of facilities make it easy to go from an independent lifestyle to one that requires more support and health care. In other words, they allow residents to age in place. As their health needs change, so do their care options. Later in life, care needs can change often. If you know you want to stay in one place rather than move to different locations as your needs fluctuate, these kinds of combination communities are excellent choices.
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Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Seattle population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Seattle has many health care options, from high-ranking hospitals and primary care options to specialty clinics.
Named one of the best hospitals in the nation, UW Medical Center currently ranks in seven specialties.[05] This teaching hospital is particularly well known for its cancer care, nephrology, and urology.
Virginia Mason is known for taking a patient-centered approach to its healthcare. Its specialties include orthopedic care, cancer care, and digestive disorder programs.
Just 10 miles from downtown Seattle, Bellevue-based Overlake Medical Center offers a wide range of healthcare services and is s rated as high performing in 13 adult procedures.[05]
Named by U.S. News and World Report as the best Seattle Metro hospital, this general medical and surgical center has two Seattle locations.
Offering a range of services and prioritizing patients over the age of 75, this clinic is part of UW Medical Center and specializes in primary care, palliative care, and memory care.
Seattle’s VA Medical Center serves the veteran community and offers a number of specialty health services, senior care, and primary care.
While most of Seattle’s independent living communities have on-site parking and offer transport services, there are also several public transport options in Seattle.
The city has heavily invested in streetcars, buses, and ferries, and a new light rail serves downtown Seattle and Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Beyond public transportation and any services independent living facilities offer, there are a variety of community-led initiatives to help seniors get around.
Seattle is the ninth most walkable city in the U.S. You can map out a route for walking with the help of this Seattle Department of Transportation website. Walk, transit, and bike scores are graded from one to 100 and measure the ease at which a person could go about their daily lives using the walk and bike paths available as well as public transportation.
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Nestled between the Puget Sound and the immense Mount Rainier, Seattle is ideal for people who love the outdoors. It has some of the best parks and trails, and the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department offers a full calendar of events, including senior-specific activities for those who want to meet new people or have fun with friends and family.
The arts, theater, and music communities are also thriving in Seattle — from the Chihuly Garden and Glass to the Fifth Avenue Theatre and beyond. The online event guide EverOut lists dozens of theater and music recommendations if you have an evening to fill, while there are also several fun museums to take in. The Museum of Flight, Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum all have high ratings and offer senior discounts and accommodations for various levels of mobility.
Seattle is home to a number of professional sports teams, so it’s easy to go to a game almost any time of year. Head to T-Mobile park for a Mariners game, Lumen Field for a Seahawks game, or the Climate Pledge Arena for a Kraken or Seattle Storm game. For pro soccer fans, the Seattle Sounders might be the right choice for you.
A short drive out of the city you will find two casinos, each offering something a little different. North of Seattle is Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, which also has golf and spa services, making it a great destination for a weekend away for groups with multiple interests. South of the city, you’ll find Muckleshoot Casino, which has the largest smoke-free area for table games in the state.
Seniors centers and senior-specific groups abound to connect like-minded seniors for activities or day trips Here are some of the most popular groups and senior centers in Seattle:
Revel Issaquah, Holden Southcenter Assisted Living and Memory Care and Cogir of Kent are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Seattle, WA. 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 Seattle is 4,156 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.
Washington State Department of Health. (2022). Interim Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings.
Centers for Disease Control. (2022, September 23). Infection Control: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). CDC.
Walk Score. (2021). 2021 City & Neighborhood Ranking.
U.S. News. (2023). U.S. News Best Hospitals. U.S. News & World Report L.P.
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