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Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the senior living industry has gone through significant changes in recent years, with many companies forced to adapt to new regulations and safety protocols to protect their residents and staff. However, some senior living providers have risen to the challenge and demonstrated exceptional leadership and resilience during this difficult time.
As we move into 2023, it’s essential to take stock of the industry’s top players and how they drive innovation and shape the future of senior living. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 largest senior living companies in the USA for 2023.
From independent living to memory care, these companies provide a variety of options for seniors at different stages of life. Join us as we explore the qualities that make each of these companies stand out and help you make an informed decision about your senior living options.
How do senior living companies work?
Senior living companies provide housing, care, and support services for seniors who can no longer live independently or require additional assistance with daily activities. These companies typically offer a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care.
In general, seniors living in a senior living community will rent or purchase a living space within the community, such as an apartment or a room. The cost of this living space will vary depending on the type of community, the level of care required, and the location.
In addition to housing, senior living companies provide a variety of services and amenities to their residents. These may include meals, housekeeping, transportation, social activities, and medical assistance. Some senior living companies also offer specialized care for seniors with specific health conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Top 15 largest senior living companies in the USA 2023
As we explore the 15 largest senior living companies in the USA, it is important to mention that all have a strong presence in the senior living industry, with a combined total of over 2,000 communities across the country. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the biggest senior living providers for the year 2023!
1. Brookdale Senior Living
Brookdale Senior Living is the largest senior living provider in the United States, with almost 700 communities and over 55000 units in 41 states. It was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee. Brookdale provides a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care. In addition to providing care and support for its residents, Brookdale Senior Living is also committed to giving back to the community.
Number of communities: 679
Total units: 55,902
Total employees: 32,898
2. Atria Senior Living, Inc.
Atria Senior Living was founded in 1996 and has since become one of the largest senior living companies in the United States. Even a few years back, they were not in the top 5 but now have risen to the second spot. Atria’s headquarters is based in Louisville, Kentucky, with over 300 communities in the United States. One of the unique features of Atria Senior Living is its Engage Life program, which is designed to promote social engagement and encourage residents to pursue their interests and hobbies.
Number of communities: 383
Total units: 49,000
Total employees: 14,500
3. Life Care Services (LCS)
Number three on the list is Life Care Services (LCS), a senior living management and development company based in Des Moines, Iowa. They manage over 130 senior living communities across the country. LCS was founded in 1971 and has since become one of the largest senior living management companies in the United States. One of the unique features of LCS is its focus on innovation and technology.
Number of communities: 135
Total units: 32,196
Total employees: 24,274
4. Five Star Senior Living
Five Star Senior Living, based in Newton, Massachusetts, was founded in 2000 and manages almost 250 communities across the United States. The company offers a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care. Five Star focuses on wellness and lifestyle programming. The company offers a comprehensive wellness program that includes fitness classes, health screenings, and education on nutrition and healthy living.
Number of communities: 249
Total units: 24,398
Total employees: 18,844
5. Erickson Senior Living
Erickson Senior Living was founded by John Erickson in 1983. The company’s first community, Charlestown, opened in Catonsville, Maryland, and since then, Erickson Senior Living has expanded to manage 20 communities across the United States. The company’s communities are known for their resort-style amenities and services, such as multiple dining venues, fitness centers, swimming pools, and on-site medical care.
Number of communities: 20
Total units: 23,316
Total employees: 13,181
6. Sunrise Senior Living
On number six, we have Sunrise Senior Living, a senior living company based in McLean, Virginia, that manages over 250 communities across the nation. Sunrise Senior Living was founded in 1981 and has since become one of the largest and most well-known senior living companies in the world. The company’s care plans are tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences, and care is provided by a team of trained and compassionate caregivers.
Number of communities: 257
Total units: 22,975
Total employees: 20,147
7. Senior Lifestyle
Senior Lifestyle was founded in 1985 in Chicago, Illinois. This senior living provider manages over 130 communities across the United States and offers a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care. One of the unique features of Senior Lifestyle is its focus on wellness and lifestyle programs.
Number of communities: 130
Total units: 14,289
Total employees: 6,471
8. Discovery Senior Living
Discovery Senior Living takes the 8th spot in the list of the largest senior living companies in the US, with 100 senior living communities across the states. Founded in 1991 in Bonita Springs, Florida, this company has since become a leading senior living company with a strong focus on innovation and technology. Discovery Senior Living has received several awards and recognition for its commitment to quality care and service.
Number of communities: 100
Total units: 13,499
Total employees: 6,900
9. Integral Senior Living
Integral Senior Living (ISL) is a senior living company based in Carlsbad, California, that manages over 110 communities across the United States. The company offers a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and respite care. ISL was founded in 2000 and has since grown to become a leading senior living provider.
Number of communities: 113
Total units: 12,319
Total employees: 4,636
10. Watermark Retirement Communities
Watermark is one of the oldest senior living providers in the US, with over 60 communities. Based in Tucson, Arizona, Watermark offers a number of services with a focus on culture and community. It has a strong emphasis on creating a sense of belonging and connection among residents and offers a range of social activities and events, such as fitness classes, art classes, educational programs, and cultural outings, to promote socialization and engagement.
Number of communities: 68
Total units: 11,060
Total employees: 7000
11. Frontier Management
Based in Portland, Oregon, Frontier Management was founded in 2000 and operates over 130 senior living communities across 20 states. The company specializes in the management of senior living communities that provide a range of services, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. In addition to providing high-quality senior care, Frontier Management places a strong emphasis on creating a sense of community.
Number of communities: 134
Total units: 10,598
Total employees: 6,485
12. Enlivant
On number 12, we have Enlivant Senior Living, which operates over 200 senior living communities across the United States. The company was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Enlivant emphasizes on providing seniors with a safe and comfortable environment where they can thrive. Their focus on community and engagement helps to create a sense of belonging and purpose that can be especially important for seniors as they age.
Number of communities: 225
Total units: 10,027
Total employees: 5,512
13. Pacifica Senior Living
Next on the list of the largest senior living companies in the US is Pacifica Senior Living. Based in San Diego, California, the company was founded in 1978 and currently has almost 100 senior living communities and over 9000 units across the country. Pacifica Senior Living focuses on providing seniors with the highest quality of care and support in a warm and welcoming environment.
Number of communities: 89
Total units: 9,139
Total employees: 5,436
14. Leisure Care, LLC
Leisure Care, LLC is a senior living management company based in Seattle, Washington. It was founded in 1976 and currently manages over fifty senior living communities and has 9,062 units across the United States. Leisure Care specializes in the management of independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities.
Number of communities: 54
Total units: 9,062
Total employees: 3,736
15. Merrill Gardens
Number 15 on the list is Merrill Gardens. This privately held family company was founded in 1993 in Seattle, Washington, and currently operates over 70 senior living communities. Merrill Gardens also offers a range of amenities to help residents live full and active lives. Their focus on community and social engagement helps to create a sense of belonging and helps prevent loneliness among the elderly.
Number of communities: 71
Total units: 8,817
Total employees: 4,123
Emerging leaders in the senior living industry in 2024
In addition to the 15 biggest senior living companies mentioned, there are several emerging leaders in the senior living industry in 2024. Here are some key players who are steadily making their mark:
i) Genesis HealthCare
With 380 facilities, Genesis HealthCare is one of the biggest post-acute care providers in the country. They extend a range of services, including nursing care, assisted living, memory care, and rehabilitation therapy.
ii) HCR ManorCare
HCR ManorCare operates 280 facilities nationwide and is known for its skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They provide various care options, including short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and memory care.
iii) Holiday Retirement
Holiday Retirement manages 274 senior living communities across the United States. They specialize in independent living for seniors and offer a number of amenities and services to promote an active and engaging lifestyle.
iv) Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society
With 268 facilities, the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society is one of the biggest not-for-profit senior care providers in the United States. They offer various services including skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and home health care.
v) Golden Living
Golden Living operates 257 facilities and provides multiple senior care services, including skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and rehabilitation therapy. They focus on providing personalized care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Final thoughts
As the senior population continues to grow, the demand for high-quality senior living options will only increase. These 15 largest senior living companies are leading the way in providing high-quality care and support to seniors across the country. Each of these companies has a unique approach to senior care, but all share a commitment to creating a warm and welcoming environment where seniors can thrive.
If you or a loved one is in need of senior living options or looking for resources regarding senior housing, you may check out these articles below. Or you could book a free consultation with us anytime!
Related articles:
- The History of Senior Living Communities in the USA
- An Overview of Luxury Senior Living in the US
- How To Find The Best Senior Living Community in 2023
- Must Know: Some Interesting facts about Senior Living
- Prospects of Senior Living Communities in USA 2023
- Will Recession Impact Senior Living Costs in the USA
FAQs
- Is Brookdale Senior Living in financial trouble?
Brookdale Senior Living had a debt of USD 3.86b and a cash reserve of USD 431.2 million in March 2023. Although it had short-term and long-term liabilities of USD 707.3 million and USD 4.64 billion, respectively, its cash and receivables due within a year amounted to USD 483.8 million. However, the company’s liabilities still exceeded its cash and near-term receivables by USD 4.38 billion, which is a significant deficiency that requires monitoring.
- Who is the CEO of Atria Senior Living?
The Founder and CEO of Atria Senior Living was John A. Moore.
- Does Sunrise Senior Living accept Medicaid?
Sunrise Senior Living does accept Medicaid as a form of payment for certain residents who qualify. However, it is essential to note that Medicaid coverage for senior living varies by state and is typically only available through Medicaid waiver programs.
