Talk to a local advisor for free
Boston is the capital and most populous city in the state of Massachusetts, and serves as a historic and cultural hub for the East Coast. Residents can explore several museums, including the Old State House and the Museum of Fine Arts, or visit iconic historical sites, such as Fort Independence or the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. The famed Boston Common is the oldest city park in the United States and is full of lush gardens and classical monuments. The city has a lively professional sports scene and is home to the Bruins, the Red Sox, the New England Patriots and the Celtics.
Assisted living in Boston costs an average of $6,442 per month. While the city has a relatively high cost of assisted living, it offers access to world-class health services and financial incentives for the elderly, including no taxes on Social Security income and property tax breaks for seniors.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
Assisted living in Boston costs an average of $6,442 per month, according to Genworth’s 2019 Cost of Care Survey, which is higher than the state average of $5,640 and the national average of $4,051. Most upper East Coast states have higher costs than the national average, with neighboring Connecticut and New Hampshire coming in at $4,880 and $7,021 respectively. New York state averages $4,630, and further south, Virginia averages $4,800.
Boston is the most expensive retirement destination in the state, with nearby Barnstable Town averaging $5,550 per month. In the center of the state, Springfield and Worcester come in at $5,350 and $5,634, respectively. Pittsfield is the most affordable retirement destination in the state, with an average monthly assisted living cost of $3,013. Just over the border in Rhode Island, the Providence area comes in at $5,199, and Connecticut capital Hartford averages $4,650.
MassHealth, the state Medicaid program, offers several Home and Community-Based Services waivers to help cover the costs of assisted living, home care and medical treatment. Seniors can also receive financial assistance for medical equipment, transportation and day services. To read more about these waivers and their eligibility requirements, visit our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.
| Contact | Description | |
| Boston Age Strong Commission | (617) 635-4366 | As the area’s Agency on Aging, this organization offers a variety of senior resources, including nutrition services, health and wellness programs and in-home services. Legal assistance, educational workshops and emergency aid can also be found here. This body also operates the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which is responsible for investigating and preventing elder abuse in care homes. |
| Citywide Senior Center | (617) 349-6060 | This full-service senior center offers a day program with language and computer classes, exercise programs and educational workshops. Seniors can enjoy hot and nutritious breakfasts and lunches six days a week, and a food pantry offers fresh produce and non-perishables to be taken home. |
| Ecumenical Social Action Committee of Boston | (617) 524-2555 | A United Way agency, this nonprofit offers several senior support programs, including a home maintenance program for small repairs or fall prevention renovations. Housing support and foreclosure prevention services are available, as is assistance with the state benefits enrollment processes. |
| Boston Vet Center | (857) 203-6461 | Veterans and their families can access help with determining their eligibility and applying for various financial assistance programs. Education and employment placement assistance is available, as are mental health programs and pharmaceutical services. |
| Ethos | (617) 522-6700 | Dedicated to improving the wellness of seniors and disabled adults, this charity offers a variety of home-based services, including delivered meals, social visits and wellness checks. Healthy aging and financial planning classes are available here, as are counseling and transportation services. |
| Catholic Charities of Boston | (617) 464-8500 | This charitable organization offers a variety of senior services, including companionship visits for isolated or homebound elders. Seniors can also access counseling services and case management. Emergency support services, including rent and food assistance are also available. |
| Central Boston Elder Services | (617) 277-7416 | Through the Little Necessities program, seniors can access mobility aids, household items and furniture at no cost. Financial assistance, nutritional services are offered, and an Elder Protective Services program advocates for seniors experiencing abuse. |
Assisted living facilities in Boston are regulated by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs and must abide by state standards for quality of care. To learn more about these laws, visit our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.