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Raleigh, North Carolina, has a variety of excellent senior care facilities. As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is known for its enriching museums and abundance of parks. Since 2022, Raleigh’s population has grown by 2.4%, making it one of the fastest growing cities in America. Seniors, families, and professionals are all drawn to Raleigh for its outdoor activities, family-friendliness, and high quality of life.
Of the nearly 480,000 people living in Raleigh, about 12% are over 65. Seniors living in Raleigh tend to be from the area, or have recently followed family. Raleigh has exceptional health care facilities, low crime, and mild weather, which make the City of Oaks an excellent choice for seniors. Seniors looking for a nursing home will find many wonderful options here.
The term “nursing home” is sometimes used as a general term for all senior living. Nursing homes are actually specialized facilities where seniors can receive round-the-clock medical care. While A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with traditional, stand-alone nursing homes, about 35% of Raleigh’s assisted living and memory care facilities provide some short-term skilled nursing care. These skilled nursing wings are a good fit for seniors who need short-term rehabilitation. Seniors who don’t need specialized medical care may be a better fit for Raleigh’s assisted living or memory care facilities.
This guide offers an in-depth look at senior care facilities in Raleigh. We use our proprietary data to uncover the cost of senior care, how to pay, and explain local laws and regulations. We also discuss senior-friendly transportation, health care, and activities in and around Raleigh.
Types of care available in Raleigh, NC
It's quite expensive, especially for memory care. (One parent in independent living and one in memory care). Quality of care in memory care is hit or miss as well - some great staff and some not very good. I think the independent living is really good - great food - the dining room is like a restaurant with lots of variety and good quality. The apartments are well set up. The staff in independent living are all very friendly and seem to know everyone. It's very welcoming. We really like that my mother can walk over to memory care almost any time to visit him.
Staff is great except for the accounting office. You have to repeatedly email or call to get an answer from them. We picked this community because of the price, location, and size of the rooms.
The staff is very friendly and accommodating. ALWAYS visible doing their jobs. I've had the food on two occasions and I recognize that it is prepared for the residents and not the outsiders. I'm sure it's more favorable to them. I would recommend this facility to others.
4801 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh, NC 27612
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...
I was only able to visit a few times before my mother passed away and could only say that she was well cared for and made comfortable each time I was there. The staff that I interfaces with were always eager...
3101 Duraleigh Road, Raleigh, NC 27612
Brighton Gardens provides assisted living in an apartment-style setting that offers the simple pleasures - nutritious food, comfortable surroundings, and the support of a warm, caring and competent staff. A separate Special Care Center for residents with Alzheimer's or other memory related...
My mom has been treated extremely well and she has been happy since her first day. They make her feel safe and comfortable, and address any needs quickly. I can't say enough about the staff, they go above...
801 Dixie Trail, Raleigh, NC 27607
Located conveniently inside the beltline, Morningside of Raleigh is warm and inviting, home-like and comfortable, with a commitment to meeting the wants, needs and wishes of all who walk through our doors. Whether you are looking for retirement living or memory care, discover our experienced and...
We love Morningside of Raleigh! My Mother has been at Morning side for almost a year. I moved her here from another assisted living organization. Night and day difference! The management team is responsive....
1110 Falls River Ave, Raleigh, NC 27614
At Falls River Village, our goal is to provide the highest quality-of-life for each of our residents. Falls River Village is dedicated to our life engagement philosophy of social, psychological, spiritual and physical well-being for every resident. This dedicaiton is reflected in every erffort...
I would highly recommend Falls River Villages. The care is excellent, the staff are loving and supportive. There are plenty of varied activities to keep patients interested and involved. The thing that...
615 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh, NC 27609
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...
I would recommend Sunrise of North Hills. Though my loved one does complain often about the quality of the food. The biggest problem that I have had is getting the Sunrise doctor to call me back and...
5219 Old Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
Experience the Southern charm of Cadence North Raleigh. Ideally situated between North and Midtown Raleigh, Cadence North Raleigh offers easy access to great shopping, medical care and local culture. With beautiful grounds and outdoor spaces, this serene setting is an ideal spot for retirement...
Staff were very caring and helpful. They were kind to my sister and me as well as my mother. They seemed to go out of their way to make sure we were ok in a very stressful situation. Their nurse actually...
7900 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613
Life at Abbotswood at Stonehenge is comfortable and convenient with all the pleasures of home and none of the responsibilities. Whatever your interests and desire for activity, you are free to enjoy the company of friends at community social events, participate in educational enrichment programs...
From the moment you walk into Abbotswood at Stonehenge you will realize what a special place it is. Spend some time and you will confirm your initial feelings. You will see smiling faces and happy residents....
1810 N New Hope Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604
My loved one was a resident at Spring Arbor of Raleigh until they had a fire recently, which unfortunately displaced most of the residents. The staff at this facility was great. My loved one really liked the...
421 Van Thomas Dr, Raleigh, NC 27615
Lease by October 29 and get $1,000 off your rent for the first three months. THAT’S A SAVINGS OF $3,000!*We are continuing to admit new Residents, where possible and appropriate, to help residents and families in need. We will do all we can to help those who are in need of our services now and...
The move in process was as good as it gets. The room is very adequate, even though it was one of the smaller rooms we visited. Other facilities had larger spaces, but we made this one cozy and comfy. The...
750 SE Cary Parkway, Cary, NC 27511
When only the best will do…Look to Waltonwood for Luxurious Senior Living which redefines retirement living! At Waltonwood, our goal is not to be just another Senior Community. But rather, our goal is to ensure each resident and family member is treated with dignity and respect while striving to...
Staff was very helpful and move in went smoothly. They urgently needed to move in, but couldn't get their desired apartment at that time. Once one became available they were able to move them into that...
1705 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
The staff at Spring Arbor of Cary are wonderful, kind, patient and really care. The meals are average quality, although they have been improving. I can't say enough great things about the staff and...
1437 Aversboro Rd, Garner, NC 27529
Foundation Senior Living provides services for senior adults who wish to remain as self-reliant as possible while receiving support from care staff, 24/7.We provide care and services to fit the individual lifestyles of seniors who need minimal assistance with activities of daily living while...
We chose Foundation Senior Living because my mother wanted to stay in the area. It is also a new facility and we figured she would get more attention with the lower amount of residents here. The staff are...
2800 Kidd Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610
Wake Assisted Living Memory Care is a memory care community located in Raleigh, NC in Wake County. Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and is known as the City of Oaks. It's a vibrant but charming town in the heart of the south. To the southwest of Raleigh is the Uwharrie National Forest,...
All of the categories I would rate 5 stars. I have had great experiences here. Nothing is perfect, but their cheerfulness and willingness to help at every turn is just so wonderful. We would absolutely...
7870 Chapel Hill Road, Cary, NC 27513
For those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, we offer a safe environment and exceptional memory care. At our community, located in a quiet residential Cary, N.C., neighborhood, near the Research Triangle of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, we can help you and your family as you...
The staff is very well trained and genuinely caring of all the residents. They provide a number of interactive activities and entertainment. Above all, the atmosphere is much more family-like than any other...
1130 Falls River Ave, Raleigh, NC 27614
Falls River Village offers assisted living services to senior citizens. We also offer memory care services at Falls River Court which is located on our campus. Memory Care offers a lifestyle that's just right for you. With proximity to world-class museums, Southern-style mansions and convenient...
I would definitely recommend them. They have been a huge help for my mom and they treat her like family. They take care of the residents but there is always room for improvement.
601 Lakeside Dr, Garner, NC 27529
This community came highly recommend to us, and we can't say anything other then we are completely impressed. When we first walk through the door someone is always there to greet us, and there is no stich...
2408 Hodge Rd, Knightdale, NC 27545
My loved one at times complains of the food and she hears staff are unhappy with the chef. Some staff have quit bc of him, she was told. She was pleased with the activity director who may be away. I think...
1500 Sawmill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615
This place is great if you really 'independent' and if not , you can hire an aide
1000 Tandall Pl, Knightdale, NC 27545
616 Wade Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27605
On behalf of our team of caregivers and support staff, thank you for considering our healthcare center. We offer a full range of medical services to meet the individual needs of our residents, including short-term rehabilitative services and long-term skilled care. Working with the resident’s...
5024 Dantree Place, Raleigh, NC 27609
6021 Dodsworth Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612
3609 Bond St, Raleigh, NC 27604
8710 Cypress Club Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615
1110 Falls River Ave, Raleigh, NC 27614
Alterra Sterling House is an assisted living residence that provides housing and assistance to older adults who want to retain their independence while receiving the daily support they need. The intimate setting for those with limited mobility, as well as specialized programming, help residents...
Skilled nursing facilities, or nursing homes, are more expensive than other senior care facilities because they require more staffing, training, and equipment.
Nursing homes in Raleigh
The average cost of a nursing home is $7,600 per month.[04] This monthly fee typically includes the following:
Raleigh’s assisted living and memory care facilities are considerably more affordable than skilled nursing care. If your loved one doesn’t need long-term skilled nursing care, consider Raleigh’s other senior care facilities.
Assisted living in Raleigh
The average cost of assisted living is $6,300 per month.[03] The monthly fee typically includes the following:
Memory care in Raleigh
The average cost of memory care is $6,325 per month.[03] This monthly fee typically includes the following:
The overall cost of living in Raleigh is 3% lower than the national average. The cost is also 2% higher than the average in North Carolina, making Raleigh a moderately affordable place for most Americans. Housing costs have risen by 1.8% since 2022, driven by Raleigh’s booming technology and research economy.[05] Raleigh may be one of the most popular places to move in North Carolina, and senior living costs are rising with its popularity.
Senior living in Raleigh is slightly more expensive than other North Carolina cities, with the exception of Asheville. However, seniors are often willing to pay more for access to Raleigh’s exceptional medical facilities, green spaces, and senior living options.
Retirees will find that North Carolina is somewhat tax-friendly for seniors. Unlike most other states, North Carolina doesn’t tax retirement benefits from Social Security. As of 2023, other forms of income are taxed at a flat rate of 4.75%.[06]
23.15 miles from you
Your zip code
24.79 miles from you
How you decide to pay for senior care should be based on your personal financial situation. Most families use a combination of personal funds, such as retirement accounts or income, and public aid programs, such as veterans benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Read on to learn some tried-and-true methods to keep your ideal senior care facility within reach.
Most families need to use some private funds to cover the cost of skilled nursing care. Private pay methods include anything from investment accounts, retirement savings plans, and long-term and life care insurance. Use these articles to learn more about how to leverage your private assets to pay for long-term care.
Raleigh’s senior care facilities provide professional and compassionate care to local seniors. The North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) regulates and licenses senior living facilities in North Carolina, including nursing homes. To maintain the high quality of Raleigh’s senior care facilities, the DHSR inspects all facilities annually. Inspections check how well the facilities follow federal and state guidelines for safety, ethics, and quality of life.
Find inspections and file a complaint
You can find all inspection results on the North Carolina Adult Care Licensure Section. You can also find a list of every facility that has been penalized by the DHSR using the Listings of Facilities with Penalties. If needed, you can file a complaint about your loved one’s senior care facility directly to the North Carolina DHSR or contact your local ombudsman office.
Regulations for skilled nursing facilities in North Carolina
All nursing homes in Raleigh follow North Carolina’s DHSR rules and regulations for nursing homes. Regulations are put in place to ensure that nursing homes offer ethical and safe care to its residents, and keep the quality of life in their facilities high. Some of the most important rules for nursing homes in Raleigh include the following:
Regulations for assisted living and memory care facilities in Raleigh
Like nursing homes, assisted living and memory care facilities are regulated by the DHSR. You can find all regulations for assisted living and memory care facilities on the North Carolina Rules and Statutes for Adult Care Homes. Some of the most important regulations for these senior care facilities include the following:
North Carolina Department of Health contact information
North Carolina Department of Health
101 Blair Dr.
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: 919-855-4800
The North Carolina state government doesn’t currently enforce any COVID-19 policies in senior living facilities. The North Carolina Department of Health offers COVID-19 mitigation guidance and training for long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities. Senior care facilities are expected to follow guidance from the CDC about handling the spread of COVID-19.
Common respiratory diseases, like COVID-19, the flu, and RSV, are tracked on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service’s Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard. You can find how quickly these diseases are spreading in your area.
Masking. Senior care facilities may ask their staff members to mask to prevent the spread of disease.
Facility cleanliness. Senior care facilities maintain excellent hygiene standards in accordance with the rules and regulations from the North Carolina Department of Health.
Social distancing. Loved ones are allowed to visit senior care facilities at any time.
Quarantining. Senior care facilities often have quarantine wings for patients with respiratory diseases, but aren’t mandated to have them.
Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
Number of people we have referred to Raleigh’s partnering assisted living and memory care facilities
Average age of resident we referred to Raleigh’s partnering assisted living and memory care facilities
Gender split: 61% female[03]
Raleigh, North Carolina, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and it remains popular among seniors. Since 2022, Raleigh’s population of nearly 480,000 has grown by 2.4%, and about 12% of the city’s population is over 65. Seniors value Raleigh’s temperate climate, exceptional health care facilities, and public parks and museums. Known as the City of Oaks with its 200+ city parks, Raleigh combines the best of mid-sized city living and the outdoors. Raleigh’s reputation for bringing in young professionals and families means many seniors moving to Raleigh for senior living already have family nearby.
Compared to the rest of the state, Raleigh’s senior care facilities are some of the best. Excellent staffing ratios, high safety standards, and updated facilities increase the quality of life for residents. Seniors in need of 24-hour supervision and skilled nursing care may need to find a local nursing facility. If you or your loved one simply need help with daily activities or dementia-specific care, consider Raleigh’s assisted living or memory care facilities instead.
Learn more about Raleigh’s nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities below to make an informed decision for yourself or your loved one.
Nursing homes in Raleigh
Nursing homes provide skilled nursing care and round-the-clock supervision for seniors who need short-term rehabilitative care after a procedure or an illness, or long-term care for seniors who need skilled nursing for the rest of their lives. A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with any traditional, stand-alone nursing homes. However, around 35% of our partnering assisted living and memory care facilities in Raleigh offer some short-term skilled nursing care. These “skilled nursing wings” follow the same laws and regulations as traditional nursing homes.
Assisted living and memory care in Raleigh
For seniors who require nonmedical care, assisted living or memory care facilities can fulfill that need. In Raleigh, assisted living and memory care facilities are almost always offered on the same campus or in the same building. Facilities tend to be mid-sized, with between 25 and 70 residents. Most of these facilities are in quiet suburban areas less than 15 minutes from the nearest hospital. Updated interiors and well-kept outdoor areas are common as well. Many facilities have extensive amenities, such as indoor pools, exercise rooms, arts and crafts centers, and walking trails.
About 39% of Raleigh’s assisted living and memory care facilities are residential care homes. These facilities offer the same type of care as larger assisted living and memory care communities, but are similar to residential homes and house between three and seven residents. While these facilities follow the same rules and regulations, they tend to be more affordable.
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Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Raleigh
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Raleigh population[02]
Median annual income for Raleigh seniors 65 and older[09]
As part of the Research Triangle, Raleigh has exceptional health care facilities that are within a twenty-minute drive from most partnering senior care facilities. These hospitals all offer geriatric care, inpatient care, and most specialties.
Duke University Hospital offers a full range of primary and specialty care, including geriatrics, oncology, and ophthalmology. Considered one of the best hospitals in the nation, Duke University Hospital is a teaching institution where Duke University medical students and residents receive training. The hospital is located in Durham and patients have access to cutting-edge technology and treatments. It’s approximately 30 minutes from Raleigh’s city center and serves the entire Raleigh-Durham area.
The UNC Hospital System has eight different locations across North Carolina. The Raleigh location is called UNC REX Healthcare, and was named a five-star Hospital by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). It offers a full scope of primary and specialty care, including geriatrics, general surgery, and urgent care.
This private, nonprofit hospital system has three locations across North Carolina. The Raleigh location offers a range of primary and specialty services, including geriatrics, orthopedic surgery, and rehabilitation care. This hospital uses some of the most updated surgical and imaging technology to give patients the best care.
Seniors living in Raleigh’s nursing homes typically don’t need to worry about transportation around the city, as their needs are often met by the community. Assisted living and memory care residents in Raleigh may or may not want to travel independently depending on their health needs. Most senior care facilities in Raleigh offer complimentary transportation services or transportation for a fee. These services allow residents to attend appointments and events without having to find public transportation or drive their own vehicle.
Families and friends are able to take their loved one out for day trips and vacations. Traffic in Raleigh and throughout the Research Triangle — which encompasses Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill — can be challenging, especially during rush hour.
Seniors residing in Raleigh’s nursing homes will find plenty of activities and entertainment in their community. Approximately 61% of Raleigh’s assisted living and memory care facilities employ an activities director, and 100% of Raleigh’s senior care facilities are required by the DHSR to provide regular activities for residents.
Card game nights, movie showings, visiting performers, social hours, exercise classes, and financial literacy courses are common in assisted living facilities. Memory care facilities tailor their activities to the abilities of their residents, often choosing musical games or soothing projects. Many assisted living and memory care facilities also take their residents on outings to local parks and museums.
Parks in Raleigh
Raleigh is known as The City of Oaks, and it certainly lives up to the name. The parks listed below are some of the most senior-friendly, offering groomed trails, wheelchair accessibility, and tranquility.
Cultural activities in Raleigh
The capital of North Carolina offers seniors and their families plenty of opportunities to learn and explore. Whether you choose to spend an afternoon browsing an art collection, learning a new language, or enjoying gourmet cuisine, Raleigh has everything you need.
Brookdale Meadowmont, Oak Hill Assisted Living and Spring Arbor of Rocky Mount are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Raleigh, NC. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in Raleigh is 5,478 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
Macrotrends.net. (2023). Raleigh metro area population 1950-2023.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Raleigh city [Data set]. American community survey.
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.
Rentcafe.com. (2022). Raleigh, NC rental market trends.
North Carolina Department of Revenue. (2023). Tax rate schedules.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Raleigh city [Data set]. American community survey.
NC Department of Health and Human Services. (2023). Medicaid eligibility.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Mean income in the past 12 months (S1902): Raleigh city [Data set]. American community survey.
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