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Independent Living in Florida
Florida has long been known as a retirement destination for seniors. With the state’s comfortable tropical climate and reasonable cost of living, it’s no wonder so many prefer to call Florida home during their golden years. In fact, more than 20% of the state’s 21,477,737 residents are aged 65 and older.
Independent living facilities provide seniors who are capable of caring for themselves with limited support as they age. In independent living communities, residents are typically provided with services such as housekeeping, meals and social activities while continuing to enjoy the freedom of an active, independent lifestyle. In Florida, the average cost of independent living is about $2,405 per month.
This guide covers more about the cost of independent living in Florida and surrounding states. It also provides information about how seniors can pay for independent living, as well as free resources that are available to seniors throughout the state
The Cost of Independent Living in Florida
When trying to decide how to pay for independent living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of independent living in Florida and its 73 cities.
The Cost of Independent Living in Florida's Top Cities
Despite the state’s lower-than-average bump in independent living costs, inflation rates in many Florida metro areas are among the highest in the nation, causing a wide range among popular locations. Surprisingly, some of the most populated cities had the lowest average costs in 2023, including Miami at $2,521 and Jacksonville at $3,074 monthly. Other popular cities like Orlando and Tampa had higher rates of $3,874 and $4,529, respectively.
Florida
$3,240
Miami
$2,521
Jacksonville
$3,074
Orlando
$3,874
Tampa
$4,529
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Independent Living in Florida
From rent to the cost of amenities, rising inflation can affect independent living pricing. Between 2022 and 2023, the average cost of independent living in Florida rose from $3,088 to $3,240, an increase of around 4.9%. However, this was slightly under the national average, which increased by 5.16%
Florida fared better than many neighboring states where inflation had a larger impact. South Carolina’s average independent living cost increased by 17.26%, and Mississippi’s rose by nearly 26.9%. However, Georgia’s cost only increased by 4.3%. Alabama had an even better outcome, with costs decreasing by nearly 10%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $3,088 | $3,240 | $3,347 |
| U.S. Average | $2,810 | $2,955 | $3,162 |
| Mississippi | $2,440 | $3,096 | $3,297 |
| Alabama | $3,050 | $2,754 | $2,735 |
| Georgia | $2,904 | $3,030 | $3,198 |
| South Carolina | $2,578 | $3,023 | $3,106 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Costs can also vary across the different types of senior living options. While independent living is among the lowest-cost options at $3,240 monthly, it doesn’t offer much in the way of nursing care. Seniors who need some daily assistance may need assisted living, which jumps to $4,067 per month in Florida, and those needing dementia care pay an average of $4,652 at communities offering memory care.
Assisted Living
$4,067
Memory Care
$4,642
Independent Living
$3,240
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Florida?
Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in Florida.
Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Florida
There are many resources in Florida that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles - Disabled Person Parking Permits | (850) 617-2000 | Plenty of seniors who live independently continue to drive well into their retirement years. However, some are living with disabilities that prevent them from walking long distances. For those who need it, Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issues disabled person parking permits, which can be obtained by applying at any local service center. |
| Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged | (850) 410-5700 | The Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged arranges public or private transportation for seniors who are otherwise unable to transport themselves to appointments, errands or visits with loved ones. |
| Department of Elder Affairs | (800) 963-5337 | The Department of Elder Affairs operates an array of programs that promote independence and wellness among Florida's senior population. It operates local Aging and Disability Resource Centers throughout the state which offer services such as Medicare/Medicaid counseling, nutrition programs and senior transportation services. |
| Florida Senior Safety Resource Center Non-Emergency Transportation | (850) 926-7145 | The Florida Senior Safety Resource Center offers non-emergency transportation for seniors in most counties throughout the state. Rides are available for medical appointments, shopping trips and emergencies. |
| Florida Council on Aging | (850) 222-8877 | The Florida Council on Aging serves seniors throughout the state, as well as their caregivers, by providing services that range from advocacy and education to resource referrals. This organization is committed to preserving the independence and wellbeing of Florida's older population. |
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Area Agencies on Aging | Floridians aged 60 and over can access critical care, support and education programs provided through the state's Area Agencies on Aging. With multiple location offices organized by region, the AAAs offer home- and community-based services. Options include Meals on Wheels, fitness and wellness sessions and home care assistance with personal care tasks and homemaking activities. All Florida AAAs focus on helping older persons to stay independent for longer. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Florida provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Florida seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Meals on Wheels | Florida Meals on Wheels is a state-wide program delivering meals to homes of frail seniors who struggle to cook and shop for themselves. The program also offers congregate meals throughout the state for seniors who aren't homebound. In addition to the food, many of the state's Meals on Wheels volunteers provide friendly visits when they deliver to seniors' homes. | |
| Florida Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 850-300-4323 | The Florida Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as food stamps, gives funds to low-income seniors and others who are having trouble paying for food. Support is provided through an electronic benefit transfer card, which can be used at grocery stores and other locations that sell fresh produce, meat and other food items. Florida's seniors can apply online, on the phone or through the mail. They must provide documents proving their household income, expenses and assets during the application process. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Florida seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Rx Card | 877-321-6755 | The Florida Rx Card program provides eligible seniors with discounts of up to 75% off out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. There's no cost to apply for a card, and discounts are available at a number of pharmacies within Florida and throughout the United States. |
Home Repair and Modifications
Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Florida have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants | 352-338-3400 | Income-eligible adults aged 62+ living in unsafe homes can get grants of up to $10,000 to pay for repairs. Loans of up to $40,000 at 1% interest rates on 20-year terms are also available. It's possible to combine a loan and grant, up to a maximum of $50,000. |
| Florida Weatherization Assistance Program | The program aims to make homes energy-efficient, which simultaneously can reduce the householder's energy costs and make their living spaces more comfortable. Types of assistance include insulating attics, installing solar screens and replacing inefficient HVAC units. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Florida seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Elder Law Program | 888-895-7873 | The Florida Elder Law program provides free legal services to seniors aged 60 and over. It can provide legal advice regarding civil issues, such as health care expenses or long-term care visitation rights. The agency can also refer seniors to local legal services through the Bay Area Legal Services program when necessary. |
| Florida Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) | 888-831-0404 | The Ombudsman Program of Florida serves as an advocate for seniors living in nursing homes and assisted living communities. It helps seniors and their family members understand their rights and works to resolve issues. Its staff members investigate and help resolve nursing home complaints and conduct annual assessments of all licensed senior care centers. |
| Florida's Department of Elder Affairs | 888-895-7873 | Florida's Department of Elder Affairs operates a toll-free legal information line for seniors aged 60 and older. Seniors can call the Senior Legal Helpline to access free legal information related to long-term care, estate planning and guardianship. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Florida bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Association of Senior Centers | 850-891-4008 | The Florida Association of Senior Centers helps older adults connect with community services that can help them maintain their health and independence. It promotes high-quality programming in senior centers, most of which serve as an entry point for accessing community-based services such as options counseling, Medicare assistance and durable medical equipment loans. The association's website maintains an up-to-date database of assisted living facilities throughout the state. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Florida help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Florida Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a national nonprofit organization that funds Alzheimer's disease research as well as educational and support programs. Florida is home to three local chapters of the AA, and these chapters offer case management services, patient and caregiver support groups and assistance with securing long-term care resources. |
| Florida Mayor’s Initiative on Healthy Aging and Livability | 305-375-5648 | The Mayor's Initiative on Aging is a countywide program that administers community activities to help improve the quality of life for older residents. These include health education and disease prevention information; wellness screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, glaucoma, bone density, diabetes, body mass index and mental illness; age-friendly fitness programs; and interactive presentations on senior safety. |
| Florida Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute | 813-396-0606 | The University of South Florida Health's Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute offers a range of services and supports to those living with memory loss as well as to family members and caregivers of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The institute conducts a number of clinical trials for dementia care and treatment at no cost to participants as well as multiple in-person and online family caregiver support groups and community education programs. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Florida resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care Program | 850-414-2000 | SMMC LTC supports seniors at risk by helping meet the costs of care at home, in the community or in an assisted living facility. The program pays for non-medical services, such as adult day care, home-delivered meals and personal care. Some applicants may also be eligible for Managed Medical Assistance, which provides home-based and institutional medical support. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Florida help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Florida resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Homestead Exemption | Floridians aged 65+ can get an additional homestead exemption of up to $50,000. The real estate must have a just value of no more than $250,000 and be the applicant's permanent residence for a minimum of 25 years. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Florida retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | The federally-funded program contributes towards energy costs for residents on low incomes up to three times per year (depending on monies available). The local program provider pays the utility company directly. |
Veteran's Services
Florida retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Florida VA Benefits and Healthcare | Florida VA Benefits and Health Care serves as a reliable lifeline for senior veterans across the Sunshine State. Through its comprehensive offerings, it provides veterans who meet the service and residency requirements with access to health care services, disability benefits, record-keeping assistance and pension programs. The organization also provides housing solutions through VA home loan programs to help senior veterans build, purchase and improve homes. In addition, it assists in organizing burials and memorials. |
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