How Much Does Assisted Living Cost for a Couple?

Date Updated: July 26, 2024

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

Assisted living costs for a couple vary, depending on the location, care services needed and amenities. Because assisted living communities usually base their rates on private rooms or apartments, double occupancy costs don’t normally increase significantly. That said, overall service and care costs increase to account for a second person along with fees to cover meals and activities. Assisted living facilities commonly offer tiered care packages based on individuals’ needs, meaning one partner may pay less overall than the other.

Average cost of assisted living

In the United States, assisted living averages $4,500 monthly for one person. This typically includes room and meals, daily enrichment activities, communal amenities and personalized support services. Most communities also include utilities and nonmedical local transportation. Supplemental fees may apply for phone, internet and cable TV, salon services and personal items. Couples should receive financial breakdowns of their individualized costs.

Other care options

Because fees don’t double for couples in assisted living, it may be more cost-effective for seniors to move to assisted living together rather than one continuing to maintain a home. Alternatively, adult day care or home care may be more affordable solutions if only one partner needs assistance.

Paying for assisted living

About 18% of older Americans qualify for Medicaid funding to cover essential care services, wellness activities and social programs in assisted living. However, funding doesn’t cover room and board costs. Each partner may be eligible for Medicaid, reducing their financial burden. Whether ineligible for Medicaid or liable for partial assisted living costs, most seniors rely on private pay options to help pay for their care.

Seniors typically use their retirement income and savings to pay for assisted living; family members may also assist. Other potential options include VA benefits, long-term care insurance and reverse mortgages.