How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Los Angeles and Why?
If you’re searching for assisted living in Los Angeles, then start here!
Over 810,000 Americans call assisted living facilities home, many because they require assistance with daily activities or are experiencing declining health. Unlike nursing homes, which provide 24/7 care, assisted living caters to those who need some support but not constant supervision. If you’re considering assisted living in Los Angeles, either for yourself or a loved one, understanding the cost is a crucial step. This guide will break down everything you need to know about assisted living expenses in the City of Angels.
- What is Assisted Living?
- About Los Angeles
- How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Los Angeles?
- What Determines the Cost of Assisted Living in L.A.?
- How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Compared to Other Senior Care Options in Los Angeles?
- How to Pay for Assisted Living in Los Angeles
- Need Help Finding Assisted Living?
- Need Something Else?
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a long-term care option for older adults who would benefit from some extra care, but don’t quite need a medical facility. This type of senior housing combines caregiving and independence in a home-like setting. Senior residents are able to stay active and social with help and support from staff. Common features to look for in an assisted living facility are:
- A variety of services including things like housekeeping, home maintenance, and transportation
- 24-hour emergency care
- Personal care assistance
- Transferring assistance
- Supervision
- Well checks
- Multiple prepared meals per day
- A variety of amenities including things like fitness centers, worship centers, and on-site salons
- And many, many more…
About Los Angeles
Los Angeles, also known as L.A., is a sprawling Southern California metropolis famous for its sunshine, beaches, and association with the entertainment industry. It’s a coastal city with a vibrant culture, where you’ll find a mix of influences from across the globe. L.A. offers a unique blend of experiences: you can relax on the beach in the morning, savor delicious food from around the world at lunchtime thanks to its many food trucks, and then immerse yourself in the world of glitz and glamour by attending a star-studded event in the evening. Beyond the entertainment industry, Los Angeles is also a hub for innovation and cutting-edge businesses. This diversity extends to its residents, making it a great place to live if you’re looking for a dynamic and multicultural city. However, it’s important to consider the cost of living – Los Angeles is significantly more expensive than most places in the United States.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Los Angeles?
The national average cost of assisted living is just over $4,500 per month (Genworth Cost of Care Survey). In the state of California, the average is $6,250. Though the actual cost will vary by facility and services offered, the average monthly cost in Los Angeles is $5,748.
What Determines the Cost of Assisted Living in L.A.?
The cost of assisted living depends on your needs. People who need more help will pay more. Here’s why:
- More care, more cost: The more daily help you need, the higher your monthly bill will be.
- Pick your plan: There are two main payment options: a la carte (separate charges for rent, care, etc.) or all-inclusive (one fee covers everything).
- A la carte breakdown: This option shows each cost separately, like rent, meals, medication help, and cleaning services. Some activities might also be listed here.
- All-inclusive explained: This is one flat monthly fee that covers rent and all services offered. Be aware that some services might have limits under this plan.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Compared to Other Senior Care Options in Los Angeles?
Let’s take a look at assisted living costs in Los Angeles compared to other senior care options:
| Type of Care | National Average Monthly Cost | California Average Monthly Cost | Los Angeles Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $4,500 | $6,250 | $5,748 |
| Homemaker Services | $4,957 | $6,864 | $6,673 |
| Home Health Aide | $5,148 | $7,055 | $6,673 |
| Adult Day Health Care | $1,690 | $1,842 | $1,690 |
| Nursing Home, Semi-Private Room | $7,908 | $11,406 | $10,646 |
| Nursing Home, Private Room | $9,034 | $13,231 | $13,262 |
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Los Angeles
Besides personal savings, you have several possibilities that can help pay if and when it’s time for long-term care!
Long-Term Care Insurance
Traditional health insurance rarely pays for costs associated with long-term care. Help with daily activities and mobility are a pretty big part of receiving long-term care. So, that’s where long-term care insurance can help. It can cover custodial care, meal services, housekeeping services, and yes, assisted living facilities.
Veteran Benefits
The VA will cover the cost of many services under standard health benefits.
To see a full list of long-term care services and to apply for assistance, check out these resources:
VA Nursing Homes, Assisted Living, and Home HealthCare
Medicare
It’s no secret that Medicare doesn’t pay for long-term care, so don’t count on it to flip your bill for rent. However, under the right circumstances, assisted living residents can still use it in other ways. Here’s how:
If you receive any medically necessary skilled nursing care while in assisted living, it may be covered by Original Medicare (Parts A & B). Treatments such as daily injections, IV therapy, or wound care are examples. Also, if you ever find yourself in the hospital for inpatient care, Medicare coverage can be used.
Your Medicare Advantage Plan most likely won’t pay for any custodial care. But, it will pay for some skilled nursing, prescription medications, and even emergency services. Check your health plan for specific info!
Medicare Part D will pay for prescription medication, even while residing in assisted living! Check out Medicare.gov for more info!
For Medicare help in Los Angeles, California, visit these resources:
Medicare and Medicaid Offices | City of Los Angeles Hub
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps low-income individuals pay for care. It can help with the cost of both custodial and medical care. Every state has different qualification requirements.
For eligibility and enrollment in California, visit these resources:
Medi-Cal (for People with Medicare)
Need Help Finding Assisted Living?
Assisted living may be the perfect option for seniors who don’t want to trade their active or independent lifestyle for ADL assistance. But, choosing a new place to live is an important decision – so, you may want a little help! If you’re looking for assisted living in Los Angeles, California, then start with the Senior Resource Los Angeles Assisted Living Directory!
If you’re looking for assisted living in the state of California, then try the Senior Resource California Assisted Living Directory!
Or, if you’re moving somewhere else, check out our resources by state!
To learn more about assisted living, click here.
Need Something Else?
Whether it’s time for a change, or you’re just doing some research, we can help! At SeniorResource.com, we believe in the empowerment of older adults and their caregivers through knowledge. But, we also understand that at this juncture of life, time is your most valuable asset. So, why waste it doing another internet search? Senior Resource is your one-stop spot for all things retirement. We do the work and find all the facts, just so you don’t have to!
SeniorResource.com exists to provide aging adults, retirees, and caregivers with applicable, and educational content, relevant to the over-55 community. As such, we address topics like senior housing, nursing care, and aging-in-place.
Click here to find senior resources in Los Angeles.
Need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!
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Originally published March 11, 2024
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