See what senior living really costs in your area
Comparing the cost of staying home with the cost of assisted living, memory care, or independent living shouldn't take a spreadsheet. Enter a few numbers and get a clear, side-by-side picture of what care could cost near you.
No sign-up to get started. Your estimate is calculated right in your browser.
Budget is the question almost every family lands on
Choosing between aging in place and moving to senior living comes down to more than preference — it comes down to cost. This calculator turns an overwhelming question into a straightforward comparison you can actually plan around.
Compare your expenses
Add up what you spend now — housing, utilities, food, care at home — and see it next to the cost of senior living.
Estimate costs by care type
Get average monthly estimates for assisted living, memory care, and independent living in your area.
Plan with confidence
Walk away with real numbers so you can weigh options, set a budget, and have an informed conversation as a family.
Costs we help you compare
Every type of care carries a different price tag. The calculator helps you understand the typical range for the options families consider most.
Assisted Living
Help with daily tasks — meals, medication, bathing — while keeping as much independence as possible.
Memory Care
Specialized, secure support for people living with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.
Independent Living
Community living for active older adults who want fewer chores, more amenities, and connection.
In-Home Care
Caregivers who come to the home for companionship, personal care, or skilled nursing support.
Nursing & Skilled Care
Around-the-clock medical care for more complex or ongoing health needs.
Respite & Short-Term
Temporary stays that give family caregivers a break or bridge a recovery period.
How the calculator works
Three quick steps — no account, no pressure, and no personal details required to see your numbers.
Tell us where
Enter your city or ZIP code so estimates reflect senior living costs in your area, not a national guess.
Add your current costs
Enter what you spend now — or use typical estimates — for housing, utilities, food, and care.
Compare side by side
See your current cost of living next to the average cost of each senior living option near you.
Questions families ask about senior living costs
A few of the things worth understanding before you compare the numbers.
How much does senior living typically cost?
It depends heavily on the type of care and where you live. Independent living is usually the most affordable option, assisted living costs more because it includes help with daily tasks, and memory care is generally the highest because of the specialized, secure support it provides. The calculator gives you an estimate tailored to your area rather than a single national figure.
Is it cheaper to stay at home or move to senior living?
Staying at home can look less expensive on paper, but it often hides costs — a mortgage or rent, utilities, property upkeep, groceries, transportation, and in-home care that can add up quickly. Senior living bundles housing, meals, utilities, activities, and varying levels of care into one monthly price. Comparing them side by side is exactly what this calculator is for.
Do I need to share personal information to use the calculator?
No. You can get an estimate without creating an account or handing over contact details. The goal is to help you understand the numbers and plan with confidence.
What's included in the cost of assisted living?
Most assisted living communities bundle a private or shared apartment, meals, housekeeping, utilities, activities, and help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication into one monthly rate. Some charge more as a resident's care needs increase, so it's worth asking each community how their pricing works.
Ready to see the numbers?
Get a clear, side-by-side comparison of what senior living could cost near you — in just a few minutes.
Start the calculator