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Seattle is the largest city in Washington state, serving as a regional hub for a lively arts and culture scene. The city hosts the Seattle International Film Festival, the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, and is home to world-renowned museums such as the Museum of History & Industry and the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. The bustling Pier 57 offers dining, shopping, and the Seattle Great Wheel, a record-breaking giant Ferris wheel to be enjoyed year-round in the city’s mild weather. The city is home to the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and the MLB’s Mariners, and among other professional sports in the city, is slated to acquire an NHL team.
The average monthly cost of assisted living in Seattle is $6,500, although prices vary widely based on the types of care and range of amenities desired. The state does not collect income tax and offers property tax exemptions to seniors over the age of 65.
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 Seattle costs an average of $6,500 monthly, which is significantly more expensive than the state average of $5,500 and the national average of $4,051. Washington is one of the most expensive retirement states in the area, with nearby Idaho and Montana coming in at $3,728 and $3,820 respectively. Down the coast, Oregon averages $4,499 per month and California comes in at $4,500.
Seattle has the highest average cost of assisted living in the state, with nearby Olympia ($5,250) and Bremerton ($4,723) providing more affordable options. Central cities Wenatchee and Yakima come in at $4,900 and $5,000 respectively, and Spokane and Walla Walla are the state’s most affordable destinations, both with an average monthly assisted living cost of $4,000. In the north of the state, Mount Vernon comes in at $4,650, and the Bellingham area averages $4,115 per month.
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services offers several waivers to help defray the costs of elder care. Available through the state Medicaid program, these Home and Community Based Services waivers can help cover the costs of assisted living, transportation and home health care. To learn more about these programs and the application process, visit our Assisted Living in Washington page.
| Contact | Description | |
| Area Agency on Aging for Seattle and King County | (206) 684-0660 | This organization operates a resource center where seniors can access employment training, nutrition programs and legal services. Transportation programs and social services including case management and caregiver support are also available. Several health programs are available, including fall prevention, memory programs and physical wellness classes. |
| Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 1 (800) 562-6028 | This government-run body is responsible for investigating and preventing elder abuse. This organization inspects care homes and assisted living communities to ensure that their residents are being treated appropriately. |
| Southeast Seattle Senior Center | (206) 722-0317 | Here, seniors can access a day program with social activities, group outings, educational opportunities and fitness classes. A robust health program offers blood pressure checks, foot care and massage therapy. Support groups are available for caregivers and seniors dealing with memory loss or depression. Transportation services are offered, and expert staff can provide legal referrals and emergency assistance. |
| Seattle Vet Center | (206) 764-5130 | Veterans and their spouses can access assistance with navigating the benefits application and appeals process. Career training and placement as well as mental health care and pharmaceutical services can also be found here. |
| Sound Generations | (206) 448-5757 | Serving older and disabled adults, this nonprofit offers home-delivered meals and transportation services throughout the Greater Seattle Area. A community dining program provides hot lunches at various locations throughout the city, and a fall prevention program helps seniors stay independent. Elders can also access legal aid and assistance with minor home repairs and small chores. |
| Catholic Community Services | (206) 323-6336 | This faith-based charity offers a variety of programs for seniors, including a home care and social visit program. Nutrition and housing services are available, as is an in-home counseling program for elders living with depression. |
Assisted living facilities in the state must adhere to the senior protections laid out by the Washington State Department of Health. To learn more about these regulations, visit our Assisted Living in Washington page.