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The average cost for housing in a 55+ community varies widely by location and amenities, with most retirees spending a total of $1,500 to over $4,000 per month for independent living options. [1, 2]  

This cost can be broken down in two main ways: 

Monthly Rental/Fee-Based Communities • Seniors-only apartments typically have a median cost of around $1,475 per month. 

• Independent living communities, which usually include amenities and services like meals, housekeeping, transportation, and activities, have a national median cost of approximately $3,145 per month in 2025, but prices can range from less than $2,000 to over $5,000 depending on the state. [3, 4, 5]  

Home Purchase • For those purchasing a home in a 55+ community, the cost is similar to buying a home in any other market, with the average monthly mortgage payment in the U.S. being around $2,207 in 2025. 

• Purchasing usually involves additional Homeowner's Association (HOA) fees that cover community maintenance and amenities. 

• Some communities, particularly Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), also require a significant entrance fee, which can range from $50,000 to over $500,000, in addition to monthly fees. [5]  

Key Factors Affecting Price • Location: High cost-of-living areas like California or New York are more expensive, while the Midwest or Southern states like Mississippi or Florida often offer more affordable options. 

• Amenities: Features such as a golf course, swimming pool, fitness center, and included meal plans can increase the price. 

• Services: The level of care provided (e.g., independent living vs. assisted living or skilled nursing) is a major cost determinant. [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]  

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.55places.com/blog/cost-living-retirement-community-what-need-know

[2] https://www.55places.com/blog/cost-living-retirement-community-what-need-know

[3] https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/independent-senior-living-costs

[4] https://www.seniorliving.org/independent-living/costs/

[5] https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/retirement-community-costs

[6] https://www.whereyoulivematters.org/resources/what-does-it-cost/

[7] https://smartasset.com/retirement/cost-of-retirement-communities

[8] https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/cost-boomers-retire-55-communities

[9] https://bucknerparkwayplace.org/news-blog/what-is-the-average-cost-of-a-retirement-community/

[10] https://www.retirenet.com/article/where-are-the-most-affordable-55-communities-/

Henry McClure  
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