The cost gap between states for assisted living facilities is startlingly wide. Seniors in New Hampshire pay $8,248 per month, while those in Louisiana spend just $2,946 – less than half the national median of $5,350.

Assisted living costs have surged nearly 19% since 2021, making budget-friendly options more crucial than ever. One in seven older adults will need long-term care services, and they now face choices among over 30,600 assisted living facilities nationwide.

Our analysis identifies the 15 most affordable states for assisted living in 2025. The guide breaks down exact costs, top facilities, and available benefits in each state – providing essential information for making financially sound decisions without sacrificing quality care.

Missouri – The Most Affordable Assisted Living State

Missouri ranks as the most affordable state for assisted living in the country, offering seniors budget-friendly care options with monthly costs significantly below the national average.

Top-rated assisted living facility in Missouri

Several top-rated options exist when looking for assisted living facilities in Missouri. St. Louis features facilities like Anthology of Clayton View and McKnight Place, both offering high-quality care with strong resident satisfaction ratings. Springfield provides excellent value with 26 facilities throughout the city. Joplin stands out as the 24th most affordable city nationwide for assisted living.

Affordability sometimes comes with tradeoffs, however. Missouri ranks second-to-last in senior care staffing quality, with a troubling staff turnover rate of 61.4%. This makes researching facility ratings essential when selecting a community.

Missouri assisted living pricing overview

Cost data confirms Missouri’s affordability advantage. The average monthly cost for assisted living in Missouri was $4,851 in 2023, well below the national average of $5,384. This represents nearly $500 monthly savings compared to typical American rates.

Costs vary significantly by location within the state:

• Most affordable: Joplin at $4,120 per month
• Most expensive: Jefferson City at $5,779 and Kansas City at $5,475
• Other affordable areas: Springfield averaging $3,750 monthly

Missouri experienced a 6% decrease in assisted living costs from 2022 to 2023, contrary to the national trend of increasing prices.

Why Missouri is the cheapest state for assisted living

Several key factors contribute to Missouri’s affordability. The state’s overall cost of living sits significantly below the national average. More than 95% of Missouri is rural land, resulting in lower property and operational costs for facilities.

The state offers substantial financial assistance through MO HealthNet (Medicaid) and the Supplemental Nursing Care program, which provides up to $292.50 monthly for assisted living facility residents. Seniors requiring memory care typically pay 20-30% more than standard assisted living rates.

Neighboring states show much higher price increases. Tennessee experienced a 24.2% jump, Oklahoma saw rates increase 19.4%, and Kansas faced an 18.9% rise.

South Dakota – Low Cost and High Quality

South Dakota ranks among the top states for affordable assisted living, offering low costs combined with excellent quality of life for seniors. The state’s wellness rankings consistently rate high, attracting retirees seeking value without compromising care quality.

Best assisted living facility in South Dakota

Quality care in South Dakota remains accessible without depleting savings. Touchmark at All Saints distinguishes itself with stunning classic architecture that includes Tiffany stained glass. Over 140 assisted living facilities operate throughout the state, all under South Dakota Department of Health regulation. These facilities must maintain homelike settings, provide 24-hour staffing, assist with daily activities, and properly supervise medication to keep their licenses.

South Dakota assisted living pricing

The financial benefits of South Dakota become evident when looking at the numbers. The median monthly cost for assisted living sits at $5,341, just below the national median of $5,350. Prices vary across different regions:

• Sioux Falls: More affordable at $3,488-$3,500 per month
• Rapid City: Higher costs averaging $4,297-$4,300 monthly
• Aberdeen: Most economical at $2,795 per month

Residents requiring specialized care should budget additional costs for memory care services, which typically add about $909 monthly to standard rates.

Medicaid support for seniors in South Dakota

The state provides substantial financial assistance through multiple programs. The HOPE Waiver (previously called Home & Community Based Services Waiver) helps cover personal care costs in assisted living facilities. Qualification requires:

• Being 65+ years old
• Meeting South Dakota residency requirements
• Requiring nursing facility level of care
• Having monthly income below $2,901 (300% of SSI)
• Possessing assets under $2,000

South Dakota also offers Optional State Supplementation, providing facilities an additional $779 monthly payment plus the participant’s SSI payment. Room and board costs for Medicaid-subsidized residents are capped at $693 monthly.

North Dakota – Affordable Care in the Midwest

North Dakota delivers notable value for seniors looking for quality care at lower prices. The state has a smaller senior population of approximately 113,000 residents aged 65 and over, but provides significant benefits including low income tax rates and below-average healthcare costs.

Recommended assisted living facility in North Dakota

New Perspective Senior Living distinguishes itself among the 87 assisted living communities in North Dakota. This facility features a warm, welcoming environment with personalized attention and quality medical care. Their team provides tailored support for residents’ individual needs while offering valuable amenities such as housekeeping, laundry services, and chef-prepared meals. Residents also have access to various social activities, including group fitness classes, book clubs, and guest speaker events—all within a secure setting.

North Dakota assisted living costs

The cost advantage becomes evident when looking at North Dakota’s pricing structure. Monthly median costs range from approximately $3,200 to $6,000, with most sources citing an average between $4,400 and $5,050 per month . This places North Dakota about $300 below the national monthly median of $5,350.

Cost variations exist across the state:

• Bismarck: More affordable at $3,435-$4,386 per month
• Fargo: Budget-friendly at $4,299 monthly
• Grand Forks: Higher-priced at $7,000 monthly
• Minot: Moderate at $3,483 monthly

North Dakota’s inflation rate for assisted living increased 14% between 2022-2023, compared to the 10% national average.

North Dakota’s senior care benefits

North Dakota offers substantial support programs for those concerned about affordability. The Basic Care Assistance Program (BCAP) helps qualifying individuals pay for care in licensed facilities . To qualify, applicants must:

• Be North Dakota residents
• Be 65+ or 18+ with disabilities
• Qualify for North Dakota Medicaid
• Complete a functional assessment

Recipients keep $135 monthly for personal needs while the program covers remaining care costs. The Medicaid Waiver for Home and Community Based Services helps seniors avoid nursing home placement by covering residential care costs in basic care facilities . Additional options include the Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled (SPED) program, which provides in-home support services.

Kentucky – Bluegrass State with Budget-Friendly Options

Kentucky ranks among America’s most budget-friendly states for assisted living, with monthly costs approximately $1,015 lower than the national median. This affordability, combined with the state’s rich cultural heritage, makes it particularly attractive for retirees on fixed incomes.

Top assisted living facility in Kentucky

Bluegrass Assisted Living stands out as Kentucky’s premier affordable option. Operating since 2001 in Bardstown and Elizabethtown, this facility has earned recognition for delivering “the best value in senior care”. Residents receive chef-inspired meals three times daily with dietary accommodations as needed.

Scheper Ridge in Florence provides another excellent option, offering 48 affordable apartments for seniors 55+ who meet income criteria. The community features universal design elements, carpeted bedrooms, and energy-efficient appliances. Residents have access to fully-equipped fitness rooms, community spaces, and convenient public transit.

Kentucky assisted living pricing

Kentucky’s assisted living costs vary substantially by region:

• State average: $4,335 monthly ($55,182 annually)
• Most affordable: Owensboro at $2,808 monthly
• Most expensive: Louisville at $5,342 monthly
• Somerset area: $3,791 monthly (below state average)

Memory care typically adds between $874-$1,074 monthly to base assisted living rates. Kentucky’s assisted living costs increased by 25.73% since 2021, reflecting the nationwide trend of rising senior care expenses.

Why Kentucky is a hidden gem for affordable senior living

Kentucky’s affordability advantage extends beyond just lower base prices. The state offers tax-free Social Security income, allowing seniors to retain more of their retirement funds. Kentucky houses 159 assisted living facilities, providing ample options for comparison shopping.

For seniors with limited finances, Kentucky offers valuable support through the Medicaid Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver, though it currently doesn’t directly cover assisted living. The state’s Area Agencies on Aging provide crucial services including care planning, transportation, nutrition programs, and caregiver support.

Somerset exemplifies Kentucky’s senior-friendly atmosphere, with adults 65+ comprising 35.3% of its population, showing the community’s commitment to accommodating older residents’ needs. Kentucky represents an excellent option for seniors seeking quality care without exceeding their budget.

Mississippi – Southern Hospitality at a Low Price

Mississippi emerges as one of the nation’s most budget-friendly states for senior living, combining famous southern hospitality with remarkably low costs. Multiple analyses rank Mississippi as the least expensive state for assisted living, making it a compelling destination for budget-conscious seniors.

Best assisted living facility in Mississippi

Several quality yet affordable assisted living facilities stand out in Mississippi. Ridgeland Place offers personalized care levels where residents only receive and pay for services they actually need. Starting prices range from $3,095 to $3,860 monthly, giving residents flexible options based on their required care. Residents enjoy chef-inspired meals, social activities, and 24-hour support staff in addition to traditional care.

Facilities that honor residents’ unique needs while preserving dignity and independence are available throughout the state for seniors seeking warm, family-style environments. U.S. News has profiled 150 assisted living communities in Mississippi, with four earning their “Best Senior Living” designation based on resident satisfaction, caregiving quality, and safety.

Mississippi assisted living cost breakdown

The numbers clearly illustrate Mississippi’s financial advantage:

• Statewide average: Between $3,800-$4,031 monthly, approximately $1,550 below the national median of $5,350
• Most affordable city: Gulfport at $3,539 monthly
• Most expensive city: Hattiesburg at $5,237 monthly
• Other notable areas: Biloxi ($3,709) and Tupelo ($4,463)

Prices increased 8.5% from 2022 to 2023, slightly less than the national inflation rate of 10% for senior living. Memory care typically costs about $4,679 monthly, while independent living runs approximately $3,096.

Medicaid and senior support in Mississippi

Mississippi offers substantial financial assistance through various programs. The Assisted Living Waiver helps individuals avoid nursing home placement by providing reimbursements for personal care services in assisted living settings. The Elderly and Disabled Waiver provides home and community-based services for those who would otherwise require nursing facility care.

To qualify for these programs, applicants must:

• Meet income requirements (up to 300% of the SSI federal benefit rate)
• Qualify medically for nursing facility level care
• Be Mississippi residents

Services covered include personal care assistance, home-delivered meals, medication management, and transportation. Mississippi does not provide financial assistance for the room and board portion of assisted living, making these support services even more valuable for seniors with limited resources.

Alabama – Low Cost of Living, High Value Care

Alabama ranks sixth nationwide for affordable senior care, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious retirees. Low living expenses combine with quality assisted living options that preserve retirement savings.

Top-rated assisted living in Alabama

Brookdale Jones Farm stands out among Alabama’s 207 assisted living communities. This facility offers both independent and assisted living options in a private, gated setting. Resident independence remains a priority while high-quality medical services create a vibrant, welcoming environment.

Six facilities in Alabama earned the “Best Senior Living” designation from U.S. News, based on resident satisfaction, caregiving quality, safety, and management. These top-rated communities show that affordability doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing quality care.

Alabama assisted living pricing

The median monthly cost for assisted living in Alabama is $4,143—$1,207 below the national median of $5,350. Location significantly affects pricing:

• Most affordable cities: Mobile ($2,785), Decatur ($3,353), and Sheffield ($2,985)
• Most expensive areas: Birmingham ($4,853-$6,040), Daphne ($5,615), and Huntsville ($4,853)[252]
• Rural advantages: Small towns typically offer 29-33% lower costs than metropolitan areas

Memory care services generally add 20-30% to base costs, averaging $1,035.75 extra monthly. Assisted living costs in Alabama increased by 14.5% from 2022 to 2023, slightly above the national inflation rate.

Why Alabama is ideal for affordable assisted living

Alabama offers several benefits for seniors beyond low prices. The state doesn’t tax Social Security or pension income, allowing retirees to preserve more savings for care expenses.

Seniors can maintain independence while receiving necessary care through the Alabama Medicaid Elderly and Disabled Waiver. Participants work with case managers who develop personalized care plans including meal delivery, companion services, and personal care assistance.

Low-income seniors have access to various support programs, including:

• Prescription drug payment assistance
• Senior meal programs
• Farmers’ market benefit cards worth $50 for qualifying seniors

Over 335 senior centers statewide serve nutritious meals through the Elderly Nutrition Program, helping residents maintain proper nutrition without straining their budgets.

Georgia – Affordable Assisted Living in the Southeast

Georgia offers surprising affordability for seniors seeking quality care in the Southeast. Assisted living communities across the state provide excellent amenities at rates well below the national average, making it a smart choice for retirees with limited resources.

Best assisted living facility in Georgia

Reynoldstown Senior Residences stands out among Georgia’s assisted living options, featuring 69 affordable apartments for seniors aged 62 and older. Located in historic Atlanta, this community delivers exceptional value with amenities including a covered patio, media room, fitness center, and raised garden beds. The facility’s proximity to the Atlanta Beltline gives residents convenient access to the city’s revitalization efforts.

Chamblee Senior Residences represents another excellent option with 65 affordable units for seniors 62+. This facility shows a strong commitment to integrating health and housing, with all units restricted to residents earning 60% or below of the Area Median Income.

Georgia assisted living cost overview

The average monthly cost for assisted living in Georgia ranges from $4,120 to $4,258, approximately 23% lower than the national average of $5,350. Regional pricing varies dramatically:

• Most affordable: Dalton area at $2,545 monthly
• Most expensive: Augusta area at $4,748 monthly
• Other regions: Albany and Warner Robins ($3,013), Atlanta ($4,620)

Georgia’s costs have increased 16.55% since 2021, yet remain more economical than neighboring states.

Medicaid and senior programs in Georgia

Neither Medicare nor Medicaid directly cover assisted living expenses in Georgia, but several programs assist seniors with limited income. The Community Care Services Program (CCSP) helps eligible seniors receive care in assisted living settings rather than nursing homes.

To qualify for affordable senior housing programs in Georgia, seniors must typically:

• Have annual income below $21,500
• Pass background checks and annual recertifications
• Meet specific medical needs criteria

Georgia’s Division of Aging Services coordinates with local Area Agencies on Aging throughout the state to connect seniors with support services and financial assistance options.

South Carolina – Budget-Friendly and Beautiful

South Carolina attracts retirees with its scenic beauty and wallet-friendly senior living options. This coastal state balances southern charm with affordability, providing exceptional value for seniors seeking quality care without depleting their savings.

Top assisted living facility in South Carolina

Forest Lake Manor stands out as a premier affordable option in South Carolina. This warm, inviting community offers family-style residential assisted living care focused on maintaining social relationships. Their well-equipped, modern apartments support an active, vibrant lifestyle for residents. The personalized attention residents receive makes this facility special. One family member shared: “My mother loves the staff, her studio apartment which she decorated with her favorite things, and the care/attention that she receives”.

South Carolina assisted living pricing

The numbers clearly demonstrate South Carolina’s financial advantage. The average monthly cost for assisted living ranges between $4,161 and $4,650, approximately $700 below the national median of $5,350. This represents significant savings for seniors on fixed incomes.

Pricing varies considerably by location:

• Charleston: $4,133 monthly
• Columbia: $3,927-$4,000 monthly
• Greenville: $3,975-$4,933 monthly
• Elgin: $6,512 monthly (highest in state)

Memory care services typically cost around $4,234 monthly, while independent living averages $3,023-$4,031.

Why South Carolina is a top choice for affordable assisted living

South Carolina offers valuable support programs beyond favorable pricing. The Optional State Supplementation (OSS) pays for room and board while providing a monthly stipend for residents with financial need. The Senior Community Service Employment Program helps older adults find employment.

The state’s ElderCare Trust Fund awards grants for innovative programs helping seniors age in place. Family caregivers receive one-on-one counseling and support through regional advocates.

South Carolina’s Department on Aging funds numerous senior centers throughout the state, offering nutritional programs and social engagement opportunities. These centers provide essential human contact for frail or homebound seniors, enhancing quality of life without straining limited budgets.

Utah – Scenic and Affordable Senior Living

Utah combines spectacular natural landscapes with affordable senior living options. The state stands out among western regions for assisted living costs well below the national average, attracting retirees seeking both scenic beauty and financial value.

Recommended assisted living facility in Utah

U.S. News examined 180 assisted living communities throughout Utah, with 10 earning the “Best Senior Living” designation based on resident satisfaction, caregiving quality, and safety. These top facilities provide comprehensive services including medication management, personal hygiene assistance, and dressing support. Residents live in private apartments while accessing community amenities and lifestyle services. Seniors receive necessary support while maintaining independence in these well-regarded communities.

Utah assisted living cost breakdown

The numbers clearly show Utah’s financial advantage. Median monthly costs for assisted living range from $4,100 to $4,150, about $1,200 lower than the national median of $5,350. Prices vary significantly by location:

• Salt Lake City: Higher costs averaging $4,368 monthly
• Logan: More affordable at $3,100 monthly
• Provo: Moderate at $3,753 monthly
• Orem: Budget-friendly at $3,090 monthly

Utah’s assisted living costs increased by 11.9% from 2022 to 2023, slightly above the national average increase of 9.6%.

Utah’s Medicaid and senior care programs

The state provides support through several Medicaid programs. The Aging Home and Community Based Waiver serves members who would otherwise require institutional care. Applicants must be at least 65 years old and undergo an evaluation by the Area Agency on Aging.

The New Choices Waiver (NCW) helps eligible members transition from institutional settings to community-based living. This program serves individuals 65 or older, or those aged 21-64 who meet SSA disability criteria. These programs provide services like day treatment, lifeline emergency response, and in-home respite care—helping seniors maintain independence while receiving necessary support.

Arkansas – Low-Cost Living with Southern Charm

Arkansas emerges as a hidden treasure for retirees seeking affordable senior care combined with authentic southern hospitality. The Natural State features significantly lower assisted living costs than most regions while maintaining quality personalized care options.

Top assisted living facility in Arkansas

Southern Charm Senior Living in Benton stands out as an exceptional choice for seniors. This boutique-style residential care home creates a welcoming community where residents receive individualized attention in a cozy, safe neighborhood setting. The facility features spacious private rooms with nature views, two large accessible bathrooms, and a delightful sunroom for various activities. Southern Charm distinguishes itself through commitment to personalized care—staff is available around the clock to address each resident’s unique needs.

The Manor at Benton represents another excellent option, offering a warm atmosphere with thoughtfully designed living spaces and dedicated caregivers. Their approach balances independence with necessary support services, ensuring residents maintain dignity while receiving appropriate assistance.

Arkansas assisted living pricing

Arkansas presents remarkable value with monthly assisted living costs ranging from $4,130 to $4,192, approximately $1,200 below the national median of $5,350. Pricing varies throughout the state:

• Little Rock area: Higher costs averaging $4,433-$4,699 per month
• Fort Smith area: Most affordable at $3,376 monthly
• Statewide average: $49,560 annually

Memory care typically adds 20-30% to base costs for specialized dementia and Alzheimer’s support.

Why Arkansas is a great value for seniors

Arkansas offers substantial financial assistance beyond just affordable pricing. Christopher Homes, a nonprofit organization, provides comfortable housing for low-income seniors throughout the state, currently managing 588 apartments across 24 complexes. The Area Agency on Aging sponsors various housing options for seniors on different income levels.

Arkansas’s pet-friendly policies acknowledge the importance of animal companionship—most facilities allow pets with reasonable deposits. Many communities offer wheelchair-accessible apartments and accommodations for visual and hearing impairments for seniors with limited mobility.

Arkansas delivers the perfect blend of southern hospitality, affordable pricing, and personalized care that makes it an ideal destination for seniors seeking quality assisted living without financial strain.

Indiana – Midwestern Affordability for Seniors

Indiana presents a compelling option in the Midwest for budget-conscious seniors. The Hoosier State has a cost of living index of 87—significantly below the national average of 100—creating an attractive environment for retirees seeking affordable care options.

Best assisted living facility in Indiana

Evergreen Village at Bloomington stands out among Indiana’s assisted living facilities. This premier community earned the American Health Care Association’s 2020 Bronze Quality Award, recognizing their commitment to continuous quality improvement. The three-story building features 115 studio and one-bedroom apartments with comprehensive services helping seniors maintain independence. Evergreen Village offers financial assistance programs for qualifying residents, making quality care accessible regardless of financial circumstances.

Wittenberg Village provides another excellent option through Lutheran Life Communities, which has served older adults for over 130 years. Their faith-based mission welcomes people of all backgrounds while fostering community-centered living experiences.

Indiana assisted living cost overview

Indiana delivers substantial savings with monthly assisted living costs averaging $4,357 in 2023—nearly $1,000 below the national median. The state experienced a slight decrease in costs from 2022 to 2023, contrary to the national trend of rising prices. Regional variations exist throughout Indiana:

• South Bend: Most affordable at $3,773 monthly
• Indianapolis: Budget-friendly at $3,993, approximately $1,357 below national median
• Evansville: Higher but still reasonable at $4,349 monthly
• Fort Wayne: Moderate at $4,174 monthly

Medicaid and support services in Indiana

Medicaid doesn’t directly cover assisted living in Indiana, but the state offers valuable alternatives. The Indiana Aged & Disabled Medicaid Waiver helps elderly and disabled individuals receive care services in Medicaid-approved facilities. Qualification requirements include:

• Indiana residency
• Age, blindness, or disability criteria
• Monthly income limit of $2,250 for single applicants
• Countable assets under $2,000

The program also provides the Consumer-Directed Attended Care Program allowing individuals to select their own care providers, potentially including friends and family. Seniors with limited resources have viable pathways to accessing quality care within Indiana’s affordable assisted living landscape.

Tennessee – Affordable Living in the Volunteer State

The Volunteer State offers financially appealing options for seniors seeking quality care without excessive costs. Tennessee’s assisted living facilities stand out for their affordability, with monthly rates approximately $450 below the national median.

Top assisted living facility in Tennessee

U.S. News examined 309 assisted living communities throughout Tennessee, identifying 42 as “Best Senior Living” facilities based on resident satisfaction, quality of caregiving, safety, and management. These top-rated communities provide comprehensive services including medication management, personal care assistance, and vibrant social environments. Volunteers of America operates several exceptional facilities statewide, offering service-enriched housing where residents receive physical, emotional, and spiritual support. Their communities feature dedicated service coordinators who improve residents’ quality of life by connecting them with valuable community resources.

Tennessee assisted living pricing

Tennessee provides substantial value with monthly costs ranging from $4,490 to $4,900, well below the national median of $5,350. Regional costs vary significantly:

• Most affordable: Clarksville area at $3,450 monthly
• Most expensive: Chattanooga area at $5,350 monthly
• Annual average: $49,260

The state experienced a 19.37% cost increase since 2021, yet remains more economical than many alternatives. Throughout Tennessee, pricing typically varies by as much as $1,900 monthly depending on location.

Tennessee’s senior care benefits

TennCare CHOICES serves as Tennessee’s primary program supporting seniors with long-term care needs. To qualify, applicants must:

• Need assistance with daily activities
• Have monthly income below $2,901 (as of 2025)
• Possess assets under $2,000 (primary home excluded)

This program allows eligible seniors to receive care in assisted living settings instead of nursing facilities at substantially lower costs. Nursing homes in Tennessee average $8,654 monthly for semi-private rooms—nearly 80% more than assisted living facilities.

Oklahoma – Low-Cost Assisted Living with Great Amenities

Oklahoma combines affordable rates with exceptional amenities, making it a cost-effective destination for seniors. The state offers some of the best value in the region with assisted living costs that remain lower than the national average despite recent increases.

Best assisted living facility in Oklahoma

Village at Oakwood stands out as the most affordable assisted living option in the state. Qualified applicants can receive Room & Board at $848 or less per month, with assisted living services potentially as low as $0 monthly (though Medicaid vendor fees may apply). The facility partners with home healthcare services to ensure consistent care delivery.

Saint Ann Retirement Center provides another excellent affordable option without expensive “buy-in” fees. Residents pay a reasonable monthly rate and can leave with just 30-day notice. Their comprehensive activity program includes exercise, arts, music, and games—promoting an engaging lifestyle for seniors of all faiths.

Oklahoma assisted living cost breakdown

Oklahoma’s assisted living costs have seen significant shifts recently. The average monthly cost ranges from $3,789 to $5,249 statewide. This places Oklahoma approximately $100-$1,400 below the national median of $5,350.

Costs vary throughout the state:

• Oklahoma City: $3,888-$4,573 monthly
• Tulsa: Higher costs at $5,499
• Enid: Most expensive at $5,550
• Durant: Most affordable at $3,200

Oklahoma’s prices increased by 19.5% between 2022-2023, outpacing the national inflation rate. Projections show Oklahoma City costs will reach $4,187 in 2024, an 8% increase.

Medicaid and senior support in Oklahoma

SoonerCare (Oklahoma’s Medicaid) provides vital assistance for qualifying seniors. The ADvantage Program Waiver delivers various services in assisted living settings, including meal delivery, disposable medical supplies, adult day care, and personal care.

To qualify in 2024, applicants must have:

• Monthly income below $2,829 (300% of Federal Benefit Rate)
• Assets under $2,000 for individuals
• Meeting nursing facility level of care requirements

The Personal Care Program allows eligible seniors to employ their chosen caregiver, including certain relatives. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers an alternative to nursing homes, covering a wide range of services from adult day care to prescription medications.

Louisiana – Southern Comfort at a Great Price

Louisiana consistently ranks as the most affordable option nationwide for budget-friendly senior care. Various reports identify it as the least expensive state for assisted living, with some sources citing average costs as low as $2,946 monthly—nearly half the national median.

Top assisted living facility in Louisiana

The Trace stands out as a premier affordable assisted living community in Louisiana. Located in Lacombe, this facility combines small-town charm with comprehensive care services. Residents enjoy three daily meals through Sensations dining services prepared by professional chefs with regularly rotating menus. The Trace provides Impressions housekeeping services, eliminating residents’ concerns about home maintenance. Their Expressions concierge helps manage reservations and parcels, while Connections transportation service ensures residents can easily reach appointments or local attractions.

Louisiana assisted living pricing

Louisiana’s pricing varies markedly by location:

• Statewide median: Between $4,015 and $4,750 monthly
• Most affordable: Lafayette area at $3,415 monthly
• Most expensive: Houma area at $6,541 monthly
• New Orleans: $5,630 monthly (higher than state average)

Louisiana’s costs have increased approximately 26.73% since 2021, yet remain significantly below the national median of $5,350.

Why Louisiana is one of the cheapest states for assisted living

Louisiana’s affordability stems primarily from its low overall cost of living. The state offers diverse senior housing options including affordable, market-rate, and luxury apartments designed specifically for those 55 and older. Seniors in Louisiana can find accommodations tailored to various financial situations.

Louisiana’s senior-friendly culture contributes to its affordability. The state boasts numerous certified retirement communities like Covington, where seniors find supportive environments with essential services nearby—making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious retirees seeking southern comfort without the hefty price tag.

Iowa – Affordable and Peaceful Senior Living

Iowa’s peaceful prairie landscapes provide a serene backdrop for retirees seeking both tranquility and value. The state sits in the middle range for assisted living costs as of 2024 while offering quality amenities and substantial support programs.

Recommended assisted living facility in Iowa

Graceview Courtyard in Council Bluffs provides affordable living options with impressive features. Modern studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments feature expansive windows framing southwest Iowa’s rolling landscapes. The facility emphasizes dignity and safety while promoting wellness through specially designed community spaces. The Meadows Senior Living in Clarion creates a vibrant “community within a community” atmosphere. Their rates compare favorably to other facilities in the area, making it accessible for seniors with various budgets.

Iowa assisted living cost overview

Iowa’s affordability picture shows mixed results. The average cost of assisted living reaches $5,200 monthly as of 2024, slightly below the national average of $5,350. Costs vary dramatically by location:

• Most affordable: Waterloo area at $4,163 monthly
• Most expensive: Dubuque area at $9,420 monthly
• Other areas: Iowa City averages just $2,100

Iowa’s costs increased 19.07% since 2021, keeping pace with inflation trends affecting senior living nationwide.

Medicaid and senior programs in Iowa

Iowa Medicaid currently provides health coverage to over 700,000 Iowans. The Elderly Waiver program helps seniors who would otherwise require nursing home placement receive care in their homes or assisted living facilities. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be Iowa residents and U.S. citizens
• Be at least 65 years old
• Meet income and asset requirements for nursing home level Medicaid
• Require nursing or skilled level of care

The program covers services like disposable medical supplies, meal delivery, and personal care assistance. Iowa’s Area Agencies on Aging connect seniors with nutrition programs, tax assistance, and legal services.

Comparison Table

State	Average Monthly Cost	Most Affordable City	Most Expensive City	Recent Cost Increase	Notable Support Program
Missouri	$4,851	Joplin ($4,120)	Jefferson City ($5,779)	6% decrease (2022-2023)	MO HealthNet (Medicaid)
South Dakota	$5,341	Aberdeen ($2,795)	Rapid City ($4,300)	Not mentioned	HOPE Waiver
North Dakota	$4,400-$5,050	Bismarck ($3,435)	Grand Forks ($7,000)	14% (2022-2023)	Basic Care Assistance Program
Kentucky	$4,335	Owensboro ($2,808)	Louisville ($5,342)	25.73% since 2021	Medicaid HCB Waiver
Mississippi	$3,800-$4,031	Gulfport ($3,539)	Hattiesburg ($5,237)	8.5% (2022-2023)	Assisted Living Waiver
Alabama	$4,143	Mobile ($2,785)	Birmingham ($4,853-$6,040)	14.5% (2022-2023)	Elderly and Disabled Waiver
Georgia	$4,120-$4,258	Dalton ($2,545)	Augusta ($4,748)	16.55% since 2021	Community Care Services Program
South Carolina	$4,161-$4,650	Columbia ($3,927)	Elgin ($6,512)	Not mentioned	Optional State Supplementation
Utah	$4,100-$4,150	Logan ($3,100)	Salt Lake City ($4,368)	11.9% (2022-2023)	Aging Home and Community Based Waiver
Arkansas	$4,130-$4,192	Fort Smith ($3,376)	Little Rock ($4,433-$4,699)	Not mentioned	Christopher Homes Program
Indiana	$4,357	South Bend ($3,773)	Not mentioned	Decrease noted (2022-2023)	Aged & Disabled Medicaid Waiver
Tennessee	$4,490-$4,900	Clarksville ($3,450)	Chattanooga ($5,350)	19.37% since 2021	TennCare CHOICES
Oklahoma	$3,789-$5,249	Durant ($3,200)	Enid ($5,550)	19.5% (2022-2023)	ADvantage Program Waiver
Louisiana	$4,015-$4,750	Lafayette ($3,415)	Houma ($6,541)	26.73% since 2021	Not mentioned
Iowa	$5,200	Iowa City ($2,100)	Dubuque ($9,420)	19.07% since 2021	Elderly Waiver

Conclusion

Our analysis identifies significant opportunities for seniors seeking affordable assisted living nationwide. Missouri, Mississippi, and Louisiana consistently offer rates well below the national median of $5,350, while maintaining quality care standards.

Dramatic cost variations exist across the country. Dalton, Georgia provides modest $2,545 monthly rates while Dubuque, Iowa charges premium prices of $9,420. These substantial differences make thorough research essential when selecting an assisted living location.

Each state offers unique benefits through Medicaid waivers and supplemental programs. Many facilities provide additional financial assistance options for qualifying residents. Seniors should thoroughly explore these support systems while evaluating potential communities.

Finding affordable assisted living requires balancing location preferences, amenities, and available financial aid. Creating a shortlist of states matching your budget, then researching specific facilities in affordable cities within those states represents the most effective approach. The ideal assisted living solution combines quality care with financial sustainability.