The midsize Oklahoma city of Tulsa is home to 413,066 people, according to data reported by the 2020 U.S. Census, and about 14 percent of those residents are 65 years or older. Tulsa’s a good place to settle down for those who find a warm climate invigorating. Its daytime temperatures tend to hover between the low 70s and mid-90s for most of the summer, and even in the winter, residents can expect to see regular highs around 50 degrees. There are also more sunny days here than in the average U.S. city, with the sun out on approximately 227 out of 365 days every year.
Many older adults find that assisted living communities are a good fit for their health, safety and social needs in their retirement years. In Tulsa, the average monthly cost for assisted living care is $3,855 — roughly 15% less expensive than the national average.
In this guide, we’ll compare Tulsa’s assisted living costs with those of other cities in Oklahoma and throughout the Great Plains region. We’ll also examine some Tulsa-area resources for seniors that can help them get legal advice, stay physically active and access health support for little or no cost.
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 Oklahoma. 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.
Genworth Financial’s reporting puts Tulsa’s average monthly cost for assisted living at $3,855.
Tulsa’s figure of $3,855 is identical to the Oklahoma state average for assisted living. It’s also approximately $650 less than the national average price.
Only one other Oklahoma city has lower reported monthly costs for assisted living than Tulsa: Lawton, which sits about 3 hours southwest of Tulsa and carries an average cost of $3,561. Enid, about 2 hours due west of Tulsa, has slightly more expensive costs of $3,980 per month. The state’s highest prices for assisted living are found in centrally located Oklahoma City, where seniors can expect to pay $4,800 a month. Across the Oklahoma/Kansas border, prices go even higher, with Wichita reporting rates of $5,425 a month for assisted living care. On the other extreme, though, the city of Joplin in Missouri is home to a relatively low price of $2,805 a month for such care.
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 Oklahoma.
Resource |
Contact |
Service |
918-749-2623 |
This social hub for Tulsa seniors offers a wide array of activities. Keep in shape with group exercises such as tai chi and chair yoga, or take part in basketball and pickleball games. Singing groups, art classes, knitting circles and other creative-minded pursuits are also available. | |
405-521-2281 |
Representatives of the ombudsman’s office examine reports of substandard or otherwise inadequate care in the state’s community living environments. Ombudsmen can help residents and their loved ones address concerns about abuse, neglect or exploitation. They can also provide guidance on transitioning between facilities or moving from independent living to community care. | |
918-584-3338 |
The attorneys of LASO offer pro bono legal assistance to Oklahoma seniors age 60 and up. Civil matters handled by this organization include guardianship concerns, applications for government benefits and transferring property ownership after the passing of a joint tenant. LASO does not offer legal support for criminal matters, but may be able to refer seniors to relevant authorities or representation. | |
918-664-9000 |
This local nonprofit provides free basic tax prep for adults age 60 and up, with a volunteer crew available in the two months preceding the tax deadline. Some income restrictions apply. | |
918-579-9495 |
INCOG Area Agency on Aging serves the older population of Tulsa and its surrounding areas, promoting seniors’ health and dignity. The organization’s services and initiatives include legal assistance, transportation and community safety. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Tulsa 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.