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Independent Living in Texas
The Lone Star State is a retirement hotspot that’s home to more than 3.7 million seniors. With 25 metropolitan areas and seven distinct regions, Texas has something for everyone. It’s home to world-class medical facilities, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. Seniors benefit from a pleasant climate with very mild winters. The cost of living is about 6% lower than the national average, and there’s no state income tax.
Independent living facilities in Texas provide social and recreational activities for older adults. Residents reside in private apartments that typically feature full kitchens and other amenities. Seniors can prepare food at home or enjoy a restaurant-style meal in the dining hall. These communities offer housekeeping services and handle interior and exterior maintenance. Because they’re often part of continuing care retirement communities, residents can stay in the same location if their needs change.
Seniors in Texas can expect to pay $2,599 per month for independent living, slightly lower than the national average. Rates vary depending on the community, its amenities and the floor plan. You can learn more about your options in this guide, which features pricing information and a directory of free statewide resources.
The Cost of Independent Living in Texas
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 Texas and its 74 cities.
The Cost of Independent Living in Texas's Top Cities
The $2,472 per month cost of independent living in Texas is just a state average, and considerable variation exists between cities in the state. Austin, the state capital, has an average cost of care as high as $1,947 a month, followed closely by El Paso, at $1,694. San Antonio is less expensive than the state average, at $2,250 a month, while independent living in Texarkana is as low as $1,725.
Texas
$2,472
San Antonio
$2,250
Texarkana
$1,725
El Paso
$1,694
Austin
$1,947
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Independent Living in Texas
The cost of independent living is on its way up in Texas, as in many other places, due partly to inflation. From 2022-2024, costs rose from $2,354 a month to a projected $2,435. This is a 3% increase, which is well below the 19% national rise in costs. Other states have different trends, from the relatively modest 5% increase in Alaska and the 10% hike in California, to the massive 61% rise in costs in New Mexico, from $1,962 a month to 2024's $3,154. Wyoming costs actually fell from $2,723 to $2,200.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $2,354 | $2,472 | $2,435 |
| U.S. Average | $2,810 | $2,955 | $3,162 |
| Alaska | $4,509 | $4,485 | $4,724 |
| California | $3,481 | $3,556 | $3,823 |
| Wyoming | $2,723 | $2,065 | $2,200 |
| New Mexico | $1,962 | $2,961 | $3,154 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
In Texas, seniors seeking independent living arrangements can expect to pay around $2,472 per month, but it's important to note that the Lone Star State offers a variety of other options to cater to different needs. Assisted living, which provides additional help with daily activities such as medication management, meals, and personal care, averages $3,312 a month. For those requiring memory care — specialized care for individuals with memory conditions like dementia — the cost increases to $3,763 a month.
Assisted Living
$3,312
Memory Care
$3,763
Independent Living
$2,472
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in Texas?
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 Texas.
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 Texas
There are many resources in Texas 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.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Area Agencies on Aging | In Texas, seniors aged 60 and older can access a variety of supportive services through the state's 28 Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies can help with issues including benefits counseling, caregiver education and support and legal counseling, and they can connect seniors to their local Ombudsman program. AAAs can also assist seniors with more practical care concerns, connecting them with local resources, such as meal and nutrition programs, transportation services and respite and in-home care services. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Lifeline Program | 512-936-7000 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
| Texas Fleetwood Memorial Foundation | 817-877-0702 | If you're a retired Texas police officer or firefighter who was injured in the line of duty, you can get a grant to cover the costs of mobility equipment. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Texas seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Health and Human Services | 855-937-2372 | Texas HHS provides a range of services to older Texans who require long-term assistance. HHS staff can connect seniors with personal care, medical assistance, transportation and other services. Some programs are available to anyone 60 and older, while others have eligibility requirements based on income or need. |
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 Texas seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Meals on Wheels | Texas Meals on Wheels is part of the national network of Meals on Wheels providers. MOW is not a direct provider of food but can help Texas seniors find free food pantries through its online search database. Many pantries and food distribution points that partner with Meals on Wheels offer delivery services for homebound seniors; these services often include a welfare check. Congregate meal sites are usually available for seniors interested in a social dining experience. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Texas collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Ramp Project | 214-558-0339 | Your primary care provider or social worker can apply for medical equipment from the Texas Ramp Project on your behalf. The team builds a free wheelchair ramp so you can leave and reenter your property at your leisure |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas BenefitsCheckUp | 800-252-3439 | Texas BenefitsCheckUp allows seniors in the state to find benefits available within their zip code, including forms of assistance that cover medications, nutrition, home energy and disability services. Seniors using the service can gain information about long-term care, social security income and taxes, helping them plan their retirement and budget for future expenses. The website may also provide contact information for elder abuse or crisis hotlines operating in the designated area. |
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 Texas have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Section 504 Home Repair Program | 254-742-9700 | Seniors in rural Texas can access combined funding of $50,000 in grants and loans from the USDA Single Family Housing Repair fund. You can use loans to modernize, repair or improve your home or remove hazards to health and safety, while grants are exclusively for removing health and safety hazards. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman - Alvin, TX | 800-252-2412 | The Long Term Care Ombudsman office represents the interests and care of those in long-term care communities. Agents of this organization can help seniors and their families find the right fit for senior living, helping them determine what level of service fits best and making recommendations for different communities based on the amenities of each. Other services the Ombudsman Office include investigating complaints filed by residents of these communities, or by family members of residents who cannot advocate for themselves. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 512-477-6000 | Low-income citizens, including seniors with limited means, can obtain free legal advice from Texas Legal Services Center. Areas of law include elder, consumer, pensions and benefits. |
| Legal Hotline for Texans | 800-622-2520 | The Legal Hotline for Texans is operated by the Texas Legal Services Center. It operates statewide, providing free civil legal information and assistance to seniors who are at least 60. Topics include long-term care, public benefits, Medicare, consumer rights, guardianship, powers of attorney and advance directives. The hotline is staffed during business hours on weekdays. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 800-443-2528 | The Texas Legal Services Center is a nonprofit organization that serves those aged 60 and over throughout the state. Seniors can contact the center to get assistance with applying for public benefits or veterans' benefits or for help with pension recovery and end-of-life or loss-of-health planning. |
| Texas Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers | 877-323-6466 | The Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers protects the rights of long-term care residents across the state, including individuals who need memory care. Staff advocate for residents and their families, investigate complaints, monitor compliance and provide free information about quality and regulations related to long-term care. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Texas Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a nationwide organization that helps fund Alzheimer's research and provides services and supports to those affected by the disease. It operates six chapters in Texas, including the Capital of Texas Chapter, the Dallas and Northeast Texas Chapter, the Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter, the North Central Texas Chapter, the San Antonio and South Texas Chapter and the West Texas Chapter. Through their local chapter, individuals can participate in support groups, become involved in community awareness and education programs, receive care consultations and access online tools to help find support groups and health care services. For information regarding eligibility for various programs, individuals should contact their local chapter or call 800-272-3900. |
| Texas 2-1-1 | Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 2-1-1 Texas operates a free hotline and website to easily connect Texans, including seniors, with a range of services and provide accurate information from local and statewide health and human services departments and programs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Texas 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 Texas | 800-367-2132 | Alzheimer's Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides referrals, information and support programs for Texans with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Its services include consultations, educational classes, early-stage support, caregiver support groups and community respite development. Its community-based respite care program provides three to four hours of free care per week for participants, and its early-stage engagement program enables seniors to enjoy fun activities and social events. To learn about eligibility requirements, individuals should contact the 24/7 helpline at (512) 241-0420 or (800) 367-2132. |
| Texas Alzheimer's Disease Program | 888-963-7111 | The Alzheimer's Disease Program is a state-funded initiative that provides information and resources to those living with the disease and their family, friends and caregivers. Through this program, individuals can learn more about Alzheimer's disease, including warning signs and the next steps to take if a loved one has symptoms. It also provides a way for individuals to connect to the MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return emergency response service, which can help locate those who wander away or have a medical emergency, along with a variety of resources for caregivers. All resources are available in English and Spanish and are available to everyone. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas 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 Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Property Tax Exemptions | 888-334-4112 | The Homestead exemption, School District Property Tax Freeze and Senior Property Tax Deferral are available. Homestead reduces property value by at least $25,000, with an additional $13,000 deduction for seniors. SDP tax freeze prevents tax increases after age 65. Property taxes can be deferred until your estate is settled after death. |
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. Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) | 877-399-8939 | The CEAP program provides financial assistance for low-income Texans to help them cover the costs of heating and cooling their homes. You can use the program to cover a maximum of eight utility bills per year. |
Veteran's Services
Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas VA Benefits and Health Care | Texas' VA Benefits and Health Care services are available at facilities throughout the state, including medical centers in Bonham, Dallas, Houston, Kerrville and Waco and outpatient locations in several outlying areas. In addition, community-based sites and Regional Benefits Offices are available to provide social services for qualified senior veterans ages 65 and older or those with service-related disabilities. Programs available include Aid and Attendance, an increase in monthly pensions to assist with daily living activities or skilled nursing costs. | |
| TexVet | 800-273-8255 | Funded by Texas Health and Human Services, TexVet is a valuable resource for anyone who served in the U.S. military. Seniors can obtain advice and resources related to areas including veteran benefits, housing, mental health and transportation. |
Independent Living Facilities in Texas
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