Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota is a true coastal paradise for seniors. Ranked as the number one place to retire in the United States, Sarasota is home to nearly 55,000 people living in Sarasota, 28% of whom are seniors aged 65 and older. From its sunny year-round climate to its award-winning beaches and abundance of recreation, Sarasota offers plenty for seniors to enjoy.
As seniors age, they may benefit from the care offered at an assisted living facility. These communities provide seniors with daily assistance and personal care services such as medication management, mobility assistance, therapies and wellness programming. On average, assisted living in Sarasota costs around $4,145 per month. While this is slightly higher than the typical cost in Florida, it’s nearly 10% less than the U.S. national average, making it an affordable retirement destination for seniors in search of sunshine.
This guide provides information and resources for seniors who are considering making the transition to an assisted living facility. Topics covered include a breakdown of monthly care costs compared to nearby cities, where seniors can go for financial assistance and what local resources are available to help them age with dignity.
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 >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in Florida. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
Assisted living care in Sarasota costs an average of $4,145 per month, based on location, available amenities and services offered.
Florida is known for its affordable care costs. While slightly higher than the statewide average, assisted living costs are around $300 lower in Sarasota than they are in the average U.S. city.
Care costs are often influenced by the location of an assisted living facility and can vary from city to city within a state. In Florida, costs are highest in Naples at $5,300 per month, followed by Jacksonville ($4,650) and Tallahassee ($4,650). The Pensacola and Miami areas are both over $300 more expensive than Sarasota. Seniors looking for the most affordable care may opt for cities such as Tampa or Gainesville, where care costs $3,350 and $2,350 per month, respectively.
Note: Data for Sarasota was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, North Port Area, was used instead.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Florida.
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Contact |
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(866) 413-5337 |
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida provides a range of resources and support services to seniors age 60 and older living in Sarasota and surrounding counties. The nonprofit organization helps connect seniors and their families with local services such as elder care, housing assistance, benefits counseling, wellness programming and legal aid. An online database provides 24/7 access to elderly and disability resources. The AAASWFL also functions as the area’s Aging and Disability Resource Center where seniors, families and caregivers can go for information and educational programming. | |
(866) 413-5337 |
Sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, the Elder Helpline serves as a trusted resource to help seniors find aging, disability and caregiver resources. Helpline specialists can answer questions, provide referrals to local services and explain how seniors can access these services. This toll-free service is available to adults age 60 and older, people with disabilities and caregivers living in Southwest Florida. | |
(239) 410-5663 |
The Suncoast Aging Network (SCAN) is a nonprofit organization serving seniors in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The organization advocates for seniors’ needs, providing grants to local nonprofits, educational programming and program referrals. It also features a directory to help connect seniors with local resources and living options. | |
(941) 702-4619 |
Age-Friendly Sarasota is an initiative that promotes active, engaged and healthy living for seniors throughout Sarasota County. Part of the World Health Organization’s Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities, the movement supports community support outlets, health care services, transportation and social programming, including intergenerational activities. | |
(941) 955-2122. |
Senior Friendship Centers of Sarasota are part of a network of centers and clinics throughout Southwestern Florida. These award-winning centers offer a place for aging adults to feel a sense of community, participate in programs and access resources focused on health and wellness, social engagement, supportive aging and caregiving. Centers provide exercise classes, group meals, adult day programs and social events. There are two Senior Friendship Center locations in Sarasota open to seniors age 60 and older living in Sarasota and surrounding communities. Full and partial scholarships are available to help cover membership costs. | |
(941) 927-8285 |
The Sarasota Vet Center provides to seniors who are veterans and their dependents. Its offerings include individual and group counseling, health referrals, education and community outreach programs. Center staff can also help veterans understand and apply for the benefits they’re entitled to such as health care services, disability compensation, pensions and Aid and Attendance payments. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Sarasota area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.