A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), also known as a Life Plan Community, offers more than just a place to live—it provides a thoughtful plan for the future. Designed for older adults who want to enjoy an active lifestyle today with the confidence of knowing support is available if their needs change, CCRCs offer a continuum of care. From independent living to assisted living, skilled nursing, and more, these communities are built to adapt as life evolves.
So, how much does a CCRC cost? That depends on a few key factors, including the type of contract, the level of care needed, the community’s location, and the services and amenities included. Understanding these costs can help families make informed choices and feel confident about the road ahead.
Types of CCRCs and What They Include
In a Life Plan Community, residents enjoy the comfort of knowing that, as their needs change, the right level of care is available. Each level of care offers different types of support.
Independent Living
Residents living independently typically pay for housing, dining, housekeeping, maintenance, and access to social and wellness programs. These costs may be lower than other levels of care, but still vary depending on the type of residence and included amenities.
Assisted Living
Seniors who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing or medication management, will pay more for assisted living services. These additional costs cover personalized care while still offering access to the broader community’s amenities.
Skilled Nursing
For those who require 24/7 medical attention, such as in a nursing home setting, skilled nursing care is the most expensive level of support. It includes full-time clinical services and monitoring.
Memory Care
Specialized memory care units provide enhanced safety and services for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. These units often require additional staffing and security equipment, which can increase the overall CCRC cost.
Rehabilitation
Short-term rehabilitation services are often available for individuals recovering from surgery, illness or injury. Rehabilitation focuses on physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help residents regain independence and return to their previous level of function. Costs for rehabilitation vary based on the intensity and how long therapy is needed.
Pricing Models in CCRC Costs
CCRCs typically use a combination of entrance fees and monthly fees, and understanding how CCRC costs work will help you make an informed financial decision. The entrance fee secures your place in the community and may cover future care, while monthly fees cover daily living expenses like meals, housekeeping, maintenance, and access to amenities and activities.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees are one-time, up-front payments made to secure a residence within the community. They can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the community and residence type. These fees often include prepayment for future care services.
Monthly Fees
Monthly fees cover the ongoing expenses like meals, utilities, housekeeping, and access to amenities. These fees may increase if a resident transitions to a higher level of care.
Fee-for-Service vs. LifeCare® Plans
- Fee-for-Service: Residents pay for care services as needed. While initial costs may be lower, long-term expenses can increase if care needs intensify.
- LifeCare: A more predictable pricing structure where higher entrance fees cover future care, often at little or no increase in monthly rates. At Sandhill Cove, residents benefit from the security of a LifeCare contract, which offers access to levels of care under a comprehensive, stable financial plan. This approach helps protect against rising health care costs and provides lasting peace of mind for residents and their families.
Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Entrance Fees
Some CCRCs offer partially refundable entrance fees—returned to residents or their estates if they move out or pass away—while others are non-refundable but may have lower up-front costs.
Are CCRCs Worth The Money?
For many older adults, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is more than just a place to live—it’s an investment in peace of mind and quality of life. While the entrance fee and monthly costs can feel significant, they cover far more than housing. Services typically include dining, housekeeping, maintenance, transportation, social activities, fitness programs, and access to multiple levels of health care all on one campus.
When you compare these costs to managing a home, paying separately for utilities, meals, upkeep, and future care, many find a CCRC to be a smart financial choice. Just as importantly, the value comes from the intangible benefits—security, freedom from home maintenance, built-in social connections, and knowing you won’t have to move again if your health needs change. For those seeking both lifestyle enrichment and long-term care assurance, CCRCs can absolutely be worth the money.
Additional Factors That Impact CCRC Cost
A variety of factors contribute to the overall cost of a CCRC, including:
- Location: Communities in urban or high-cost-of-living areas tend to have higher fees.
- Accommodation Size: Studios are more affordable, while larger apartments or villas come at a premium.
- Amenities: Pools, golf courses, fine dining, and wellness centers can add value.
- Health Care Services: On-site clinics, therapy programs or personal care services may be charged separately.
Other CCRC Costs to Consider
Beyond basic fees, additional expenses can impact your total financial commitment, such as:
- Extra Services: Personal transportation, pet care or salon services
- Upgrades: Custom cabinetry, flooring or appliance upgrades in your residence
- Health Care Costs: Out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions or specialty treatments
- Moving Expenses: Costs related to downsizing, moving companies or home staging
How to Determine If a CCRC Is Worth the Cost
Choosing a CCRC is a significant financial and lifestyle decision. To make an informed choice, it’s important to look beyond just the entrance fee or monthly costs. Consider the full value a CCRC offers—both today and in the future. Here are key factors to guide your evaluation:
Assessing Value
Ask whether the services and lifestyle offered justify the cost. Consider not just the living space, but also the peace of mind that comes with having access to a full spectrum of care.
Understanding Long-Term Financial Impact
Compare CCRC costs to aging in place with at-home care, home maintenance, and private health care services. In many cases, CCRCs can provide better value and greater convenience.
Seeking Financial Assistance
Some residents use long-term care insurance, retirement savings or Veterans benefits to help cover costs. In certain cases, portions of CCRC entrance fees may be tax deductible.
What Is the Best Age to Move to a CCRC?
Most people move to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) between their late ’60s and ’80s, depending on health, lifestyle, personal goals, and considerations like CCRC costs. Many find that moving in their ’70s allows them to enjoy the community’s amenities, activities, and maintenance-free living while still active and independent.
Choosing to move sooner rather than later also means more options for floor plans, time to form friendships, and the reassurance of having future care in place. Ultimately, the best age is when you’re ready to simplify daily life, focus on wellness, and plan confidently for the years ahead.
Planning for a CCRC Like Sandhill Cove
Choosing the right CCRC is a significant decision, both personally and financially. At Sandhill Cove, we strive to make that decision easier with:
- Transparent pricing models
- A full continuum of care, from independent living to skilled nursing
- Waterfront dining, a modern fitness center, and vibrant social opportunities
We’re here to help you find a plan that fits your needs and budget while ensuring you enjoy every day to the fullest.
Discover the True Value of Senior Living at Sandhill Cove
At Sandhill Cove, it’s not just about where you live—it’s about how you live. From exceptional care and resort-style amenities to transparent pricing, CCRC costs, and personalized support, our community is designed to help you thrive.
Come experience the waterfront views, vibrant lifestyle, and peace of mind that make Sandhill Cove truly special. Schedule your personal visit today and see how your next chapter can be your best one yet.
