Arizona is the second most popular state in the U.S. for retirees to relocate to, and many seniors choose to make their new home in Phoenix. Around 10% of the city’s 1.6 million residents are aged 65 and over, and the city’s warm winters and low health care costs help make it an appealing option. As the largest city in Arizona and the fifth-largest in the United States there are also plenty of amenities for seniors, including world-class health care, great shopping and restaurant options that range from Sonoran hot dogs to fine dining. Phoenix is known for its outside pursuits, and many older adults enjoy exploring the city’s hiking trails and golf courses, while sports fans can get involved with the excitement of spring training.
Prices for assisted living can vary depending on the location, amenities and services provided, but the average cost in Phoenix is $3,500 a month.
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 >
The average cost of assisted living in Phoenix is $3,500, $250 less than the Arizona average of $3,750. Assisted living costs in Phoenix are also more affordable than the national average, which is $4,051 per month. Costs are similar in neighboring Utah and Nevada; both states average $3,400 per month. However, the New Mexico average is higher than Phoenix, and in California, seniors pay around $1,000 more each month.
The cost of assisted living in other cities in Arizona can vary widely. Phoenix is among the most affordable cities for assisted living, with only Yuma having a lower cost of $3,475. In Prescott, to the north of Phoenix, costs are still quite affordable at $3,790, while in Southern Arizona, prices are higher than the national average, with Sierra Vista averaging $4,410 and seniors in Tucson paying around $4,695. Flagstaff has the highest assisted living costs in the state at $5,000 each month.
Medicaid in Arizona is known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). A division of the AHCCCS, the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) provides assistance to elderly and disabled residents who require long-term care. Services covered by ALTCS include personal care and transportation assistance, and these services can be provided at a nursing home, assisted living facility or in the participant’s home. The program doesn’t cover room and board.
Our assisted living in Arizona page has more information about these programs and the eligibility requirements.
Contact | Description | |
Area Agency on Aging, Region One | (888) 264-2258 | The Area Agency on Aging in Phoenix has a variety of programs available to help adults aged 60 and over. It also runs a 24-hour help line to provide information about services, benefits, housing options and more to seniors and their caregivers. |
City of Phoenix Department of Human Services | (602) 262-6011 | Phoenix’s Human Services Department runs 15 senior centers around the city, which offer social, educational and recreational opportunities to older adults. They also provide information on programs and services available for seniors. In addition, the department has meal and housing programs aimed at senior residents. |
Senior Ride Program | (602) 801-1160 | Phoenix has a number of alternative transport options available for older adults. The Senior Ride program is available for all Phoenix residents aged 65 and over. It provides subsidized transport, and seniors using it can travel wherever they choose. The Senior Center Shuttle is also available to transport seniors between their personal residence and the nearest senior center. |
Senior Adult Independent Living (SAIL) | (602) 506-3011 | Maricopa County runs the Senior Adult Independent Living program. This is a case management program that works with seniors aged 60 and over as well as younger adults with a diagnosed disability. Case managers conduct evaluations to determine the needs of the senior. Referrals are made to programs, and the case manager can also coordinate services. |
Jewish Family and Children’s Services | (602) 279-7655 | The JFCS has a range of programs available to support senior members of the community. The Center for Senior Enrichment is available to the entire senior community and has opportunities for classes, health and wellness programs, discussion groups and social activities. Senior Concierge Services connects older adults with programs and services that can help them remain healthy, safe and active. JFCS also runs Memory Cafe, which allows people with mild cognitive impairment and their care partners to meet together in a relaxing environment and engage in meaningful activities. |
The Arizona Division of Public Health Licensing Services, Bureau of Residential Facilities Licensing, oversees assisted living facilities in the Phoenix area. All facilities must follow state rules and regulations designed to ensure residents’ needs are being met. Our Assisted Living in Arizona page has more information about Arizona’s senior living laws.