Enjoy Affordable Freedom

Independent Living in Boston, MA

Discover the best independent living solutions in Boston, MA that offer affordable maintenance-free living and companionship for seniors seeking independence.

Boston, a city where history meets modern vibrancy, offers a unique backdrop for a fulfilling retirement. If you're an independent senior seeking a lifestyle that combines autonomy and support, Home Sweet Homeshare is your trusted guide.

Introduction

We understand that navigating the differences between the 88 senior living facilities in the Boston metro area’s various independent living solutions can feel overwhelming. That's why we're dedicated to simplifying the process and empowering you to make confident choices. Whether you envision a dynamic retirement community or the financial and social benefits of our secure home-sharing program, we're here to help you maintain your independence, stay connected to the city you love, and embrace the freedom of a maintenance-free lifestyle.

As we get older, maintaining a home in Boston and keeping up with household chores can become burdensome. You may feel isolated rattling around a big house alone.

Various independent living solutions allow you to enjoy the best of Boston without the hassles of homeownership. You can stay active socially and physically while others handle tasks such as cooking, cleaning, yardwork, home repairs, transportation, and more. 

With a range of options at different price points, the Boston metro region has many independent living solutions where you can thrive on your terms. 

This guide will explain what various independent living solutions entail, their costs and benefits, and help you find the right solution in one of America's most dynamic cities for seniors. 

We serve Boston’s neighborhoods like North End, Beacon Hill, Longwood, and Fenway. As well as nearby communities such as Concord, Dover, Lexington, Newton, Peabody, Marblehead, Salem, Wellesley, Weston, Waltham, Hingham, and Brookline.

Average cost of independent living in Boston, MA: $6,250 per month

The average cost of senior independent living in Boston is $6250 per month. That is the average. The cost of independent living can vary widely depending on amenities offered. Home sharing is the least expensive option and there are luxury facilities that cost over $10,000 per month.

What Are The Senior Living Options in the Boston area? 

There are several types of senior living communities available in Boston to suit different needs and budgets. Here's an overview:

Home Sharing:

Matches homeowners who need help with housemates who perform household chores in exchange for reduced rent. Provides companionship and home maintenance assistance. Ideal for homeowners who want to stay in their homes and who don’t have any medical needs.

Home sharing through Home Sweet Homeshare provides an alternative to traditional senior living. Homeowners earn at least $400/month plus 40 hours of help around the home for significantly lower costs than other options. 

It’s the only option where the senior earns money instead of paying money.

It’s also the only option where the senior can stay in their current home.

Here is a list of the neighborhoods in Boston and how much income the homeowner can make each month renting out the extra bedroom in their house. The range is $1,340 per month along the waterfront to $501 per month in West Roxbury.

  • Boston Waterfront/Downtown 02351 $1,340 per month
  • Boston Seaport 01913 $1,210
  • Boston South Boston 01002 $1,101
  • Boston North End 01810 $1,016
  • Boston Downtown 02476 $991
  • Boston Back Bay 01721 $943
  • Boston Beacon Hill 02601 $911
  • Boston Charlestown 01730 $904
  • Boston Fenway 02478 $793
  • Boston South End 01915 $791
  • Boston East Boston 01821$727
  • Boston Roxbury 01862 $722
  • Boston Mattapan 02110 $688
  • Boston Mission Hill 02210 $647
  • Boston Kenmore 02111 $639
  • Boston Brighton 02109 $637

Independent Living Communities:

Residents live independently and have access to amenities and services on-site. Ideal for active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle. These facilities do not offer medical assistance. They have an entrance fee that can range from $100,000 to $1 Million. That is in addition to the monthly fee they charge for general operating costs.

They generally fall into two categories:

  • Luxury Independent Living - Upscale communities with premium services, amenities, and activities. Concierge, fine dining, entertainment, transportation. For seniors who desire luxury living. In the Boston area, luxury independent communities average around $7,500/month including fine dining and other high-end amenities. 
  • Faith-based senior communities centered around a specific faith or religion. Offer religious services plus social activities. For seniors who want to live with others who share their faith. Typically these are more affordable independent living communities and they start at $3,000/month. 

Assisted Living:

Provides daily living assistance like medication management, bathing, dressing, meals. Staff is available 24/7 for increased medical care needs. Better for seniors who require more help. 

Assisted living costs more, from $4,500-$7,000/month depending on care needs.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Offers a continuum of care from independent living to assisted living and memory care. Residents can age in place and receive greater care as needed. Continuing care communities require a large entry fee starting at $100,000 plus monthly fees from $3,500-$10,000. Ideal for individuals or couples that will need memory care at some point.

Every senior has different needs and budgets. 

With this guide, you can weigh the pros and cons of each type of living arrangement in Boston to help you choose the right community or home-sharing option to fit your lifestyle.

Costs associated with Independent Living Facilities in Boston, MA

Boston offers diverse options for independent living at different price points. Here are the typical costs:

  • Entrance Fees - Ranges from $100,000 to $1,000,000. Often 80% refundable when you leave the facilities.
  • Monthly Rent- Averages $3,500/month plus additional fees. Rent ranges from $2,000 to $10,000 for luxury.
  • Meals - Around $500/month for dinner and lunch daily. Breakfast may be included.
  • Personal Care - Aides cost $25-$35/hour for help with medications, dressing, bathing if needed.
  • Parking - Ranges from $100 to $500/month for covered parking.
  • Pet Fee - $250 one-time fee and $25/month. 2 pets maximum typically.

When comparing costs, look closely at what amenities and services are included in the base rent. Many independent living communities offer different tiers of rental packages.

Pricing of Indepdent Living Facilities in the Boston Area in 2024
Example of the pricing of independent living facilities and associated costs of the entrance deposit and the monthly rent.

Seek communities that offer flexibility and allow you to select your desired services to match your budget and needs.

Services and Amenities

Boston independent living communities typically include the following key services and amenities:

  • 24/7 Security
  • Controlled Access
  • Maintenance and Groundskeeping
  • Utilities (electricity, gas, water, trash)
  • Scheduled Transportation
  • Emergency Call System
  • Community Dining Room with Daily Meals
  • Exercise Room and Fitness Classes
  • Clubs, Activities, Trips
  • Housekeeping
  • Salon and Barber Shop
  • Concierge
  • Computer Lab
  • Guest Suites
  • Library

Top facilities feature luxury amenities like pools, art studios, cinemas, pet parks, gardening areas, and more. Healthcare services like therapy, on-site nurses, and memory care may also be available.

Top Rated Independent Living Communities in Boston

Here are 4 top-rated independent living communities located throughout Boston's neighborhoods:

  1. Chestnut Park at Cleveland Circle - Chestnut Hill
  • 220 apartment homes w/6 floor plans
  • Rent starting from $3,995/month
  • Heated underground parking
  • Fitness center with trainer
  • Easy Green Line access
  1. Standish Village - Downtown
  • Highrise with 152 apartments
  • Rent from $4,500/month
  • Radcliffe Institute onsite
  • Steps from Symphony Hall
  1. Holiday by Atria
  • Brand new development
  • Rent from $3,495/month
  • Museum and hospital adjacent
  • Intergenerational living
  1. Brooksby Village - Peabody
  • 75-acre campus north of Boston
  • Rent from $2,340/month
  • 400+ independent units
  • Pool, bistro, salon
  • Near Northshore Mall

Contact Us

The experienced team at Home Sweet Homeshare is here to help you find your perfect home. Reach out today to learn more about independent living in Boston.

Email: Info@HomeSweetHomeshare.com

We look forward to helping you start your next chapter!