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Living an independent, fulfilling life as you age is something we all hope to do. Senior living communities provide around-the-clock support and supervision while allowing seniors to maintain their independence. Maryland offers some of the best assisted living, independent living, and nursing home facilities across the US, delivering quality care and support services.
In this blog, we will take a look at the top five affordable cities for senior living in Maryland so you can make sure you’re getting the best value possible. So, if you’re looking for places with plenty of budget senior housing in Maryland, this post is the one for you!
Retire in Maryland: Pros and cons
Like any other location, Maryland has its own set of pros and cons. Here are some potential advantages and disadvantages of retiring in Maryland:
Pros | Cons |
1. Maryland generally experiences a mild climate with warm summers and relatively mild winters. | 1. While weather is moderate, it can be pretty unpredictable with occasional natural disasters. |
2. Diverse range of natural landscapes, including Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean beaches, and the Appalachian Mountains. | 2. Maryland’s proximity to major cities means that traffic congestion can be a significant challenge. |
3. Maryland has a rich history and is home to several cities and towns with significant cultural and historical attractions. | 3. Maryland has a higher cost of living compared to the national average. |
4. Located in close proximity to major metropolitan areas such as Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. | 4. Some parts of Maryland, particularly the densely populated areas around Baltimore and Washington, D.C., can be crowded and hectic. |
5. Maryland is quite tax-friendly with zero tax on social security, property tax credits, etc. | 5. While Maryland exempts Social Security income from taxation, it does have a progressive state income tax system. |
Fun things to do in Maryland for retirees
Maryland offers a range of enjoyable activities for retirees. Here are some fun things to do in Maryland:
1. Explore Annapolis
Maryland offers a range of enjoyable activities for retirees. Retirees can explore the charming capital city of Annapolis, taking leisurely strolls along the historic streets of downtown. They can also visit the United States Naval Academy or embark on a boat tour of the picturesque Chesapeake Bay.
2. Enjoy the beaches
For those seeking relaxation, Maryland’s coastal areas, including Ocean City and Assateague Island, boast beautiful beaches. Retirees can spend their days sunbathing, swimming in the ocean, or even enjoying horseback rides along the shoreline.
3. Visit historic sites
History enthusiasts will find plenty of historic sites to explore in Maryland. From the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, where the Star-Spangled Banner was written, to the Antietam National Battlefield and Harpers Ferry, there’s no shortage of fascinating destinations. St. Mary’s City, the site of Maryland’s first capital, is also worth a visit.
4. Explore the Chesapeake Bay
Nature lovers would love to explore the Chesapeake Bay and its surroundings. Retirees can go boating, fishing, or kayaking on the bay’s calm waters. They can also take scenic drives along the Chesapeake Bay Bridge or visit charming waterfront towns like St. Michaels or Havre de Grace.
5. Sample local cuisine
Food enthusiasts will delight in Maryland’s renowned seafood, especially its crabs. Retirees can savor delicious crab cakes or steamed crabs at local seafood restaurants. They shouldn’t miss the chance to try Old Bay seasoning, a popular spice blend used in
6. Take a wine or brewery tour
Wine and beer enthusiasts can embark on tours of Maryland’s wineries and breweries. Local establishments like Linganore Winecellars and Boordy Vineyards offer wine tastings, while breweries like Flying Dog Brewery and Heavy Seas Beer showcase the state’s craft beer scene.
7. Attend festivals and events
Throughout the year, Maryland hosts numerous festivals and events. Retirees can attend the Maryland Renaissance Festival, the Preakness Stakes horse race, or even venture to nearby Washington, D.C. for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
8. Engage in outdoor sports
For retirees who enjoy outdoor sports, Maryland offers golf courses, tennis clubs, and other outdoor recreational options. These opportunities allow retirees to stay active while enjoying the state’s beautiful surroundings.
What senior living options are available in Maryland?
In Maryland, seniors have a variety of senior living options available to them. The most common are independent living, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). All these senior housing options in Maryland provide the residents with a range of services, amenities, and recreational opportunities.
Independent living facilities are perfect for older adults who want to downsize, or eliminate the hassles of housekeeping. Assisted living offers help with activities of daily living, regular supervision, and personal care, while nursing home facilities are catered to those with advanced medical needs and round-the-clock supervision. CCRCs are multifaceted campuses that include both independent living and assisted residential units, as well as skilled nursing services.
What is the cost of senior living in Maryland?
The cost of senior living in Maryland fluctuates depending on factors such as the facility’s location or the type and level of care needed. Generally speaking, the monthly average cost of assisted living in Maryland is $4900 as per the Genworth Cost of Care Survey. It is slightly higher than the national average of $4500. Nursing homes in Maryland cost $10,342/month for a semi-private room, while private rooms cost $12,167/month. Independent living in Maryland costs about $$3,238/month, and home health care in Maryland will cost roughly $5,148/month. Some luxury senior living in Maryland can cost significantly more, while more rural locations tend to be less expensive.
There are several government programs available in Maryland that can help supplement the cost of senior care. For example, the Assisted Living Subsidy program, Maryland is a dedicated state-funded financial assistance program to support low-income and disabled seniors. Besides, depending on individual circumstances and needs, residents may be eligible for Medicare and Medicaid benefits, veteran’s benefits, or other government-funded programs.
Top 5 affordable cities for senior living in Maryland
Maryland is known for its beautiful shoreline, rich historical attractions, lovely climate, and senior-friendly tax policies. It welcomes retired individuals with its wide variety of senior living accommodations tailored to various budgets and care needs. Now let’s look at the top five affordable cities for senior living in Maryland.
1. Hagerstown
Hagerstown is one of the most affordable cities in Maryland to avail senior care. The median monthly cost of senior living in Hagerstown, MD, is $4,630. It is just $100 higher than the national average but lower than most of the neighboring cities in the state. Brookdale Hagerstown and Commonwealth Senior Living are two of the best assisted living facilities in Hagerstown, Maryland, with various floor plans and amenities.
Hagerstown offers easy access to scenic outdoor attractions like the Appalachian Trail and Hagerstown City Park as well as urban amenities like The Maryland Theatre, museums, and shopping malls. Moreover, Hagerstown’s crime rate is one of the lowest in the state, making it a safe place for older adults who may be more vulnerable than other age groups.
2. Bowei
If you are looking for affordable places to live in Maryland, Bowei would be the ideal city. Though the private housing cost is high in this suburb, the cost of care is 7% lower than the national average. The monthly median cost of senior living in Bowie is about $4,750, which is slightly higher than the state average. Brookdale Woodward Estates, Charter Senior Living and Tribute at Melford are some of the best retirement communities in Bowei, Maryland.
The city also features many parks and trails where seniors can go on walks, do light exercise, or take part in activities such as golfing or fishing. They can also take advantage of senior-friendly services like public transportation and meal delivery programs that make it easier for them to get around town without having to drive.
3. Frederick
Frederick is one of the most scenic counties in Maryland, with plenty of senior housing options. Sunrise of Frederick, HeartFields Assisted Living, and Somerford House offer the best of Maryland senior living. On average, assisted living in Frederick costs $4,630 per month, while nursing homes can cost up to $11,513. The cost is similar to Hagerstown but lower than Bowei, Baltimore, and other nearby cities.
Frederick is an ideal place to retire for anyone looking for a combination of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With its rich history, vibrant arts & culture scene, quality health care facilities, plentiful leisure activities, and diverse dining options, the city is a great choice for those seeking a peaceful yet exciting retirement destination.
4. Baltimore
Baltimore is the largest city in the state of Maryland and is home to over 600,000 residents. The average assisted living cost in Baltimore is $4,750 per month, while nursing homes can cost up to $13,490. Though the cost is higher than the state and national average, it is low compared to other major cities. Charter Senior Living of Towson, Esther’s Place, Springwell Senior Living, and Symphony Manor, are the top-rated senior living in Baltimore, Maryland.
Set in the Mid-Atlantic region, Baltimore offers stunning landscapes, a thriving cultural scene, historical attractions, and plenty of volunteer opportunities for retirees looking to stay active in their golden years.
5. Salisbury
Salisbury is one of the affordable cities in Maryland, with a decent number of senior housing options. However, assisted living costs are a bit higher here compared to the cities mentioned above. Assisted living cost in Salisbury, Maryland, is around $4,980, which is almost $500 more than the national average but lower than nearby cities like Rockville, Bethesda, and Silver Spring. Atria Peregrine Senior Living Salisbury and John B. Parsons Assisted Living are two of the best assisted living in Salisbury, Maryland.
Salisbury boasts mild temperatures all year long, plenty of parks and trails, restaurants, and top-notch medical care. With all these great features, Salisbury is certainly an attractive option for retirees looking for a place to call home while keeping their living expenses manageable.
Best retirement communities in Maryland
Maryland offers a variety of retirement communities that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Here are some highly regarded retirement communities in Maryland:
- Kensington Park Senior Living
- Residences At Vantage Point
- Heartlands Senior Living Village at Ellicott City
- Aspenwood Senior Living Community
- Brightview Avondell
- Mercy Ridge
- Symphony Manor
- Brightview Crofton Riverwalk
- Tranquillity at Fredericktowne
- Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant
What are the best hospitals in Maryland?
Maryland is home to several renowned hospitals known for their quality healthcare services. Here is our list of 10 best hospitals in Maryland:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- University of Maryland Medical Center
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
- MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
- Mercy Medical Center
- Anne Arundel Medical Center
- MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
- Sinai Hospital of Baltimore
- MedStar Harbor Hospital
- University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center
Final thoughts
So, there you have it – the top five affordable cities for senior living in Maryland! If you’re a Marylander on a budget looking for a great place to retire, these five cities are all worth considering. With relatively low living costs and plenty of amenities and activities, they offer retirees a great quality of life at an affordable price.
And if you need any help with your search, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. BoomersHub will be happy to assist you in finding the perfect place to call home! But in the meantime, you may check out some of the related articles from our blog:
- Best retirement communities in San Diego: What makes the city popular among retirees?
- Top 10 luxury assisted living in the United States
- Respite care for the elderly: some of the best options
- Finding The Right Affordable Assisted Living for Low-Income Seniors
- Top 8 memory care facilities in southern California
FAQs
How to apply for low-income senior housing in Maryland?
In order to apply for low-income senior housing in Maryland, prospective tenants must first determine their eligibility by meeting age and income qualifications. Once eligibility is determined, they may call or visit their local Public Housing Agency (PHA) and fill out an application form. Seniors must provide documentation such as proof of identity, Social Security number, income records, and any other details specified in the application packet.
Is Maryland tax-friendly for seniors?
Maryland is generally tax-friendly for seniors. Elderly retired residents aged 65 and over are exempt from paying property taxes. In addition, Maryland does not tax seniors for their Social Security benefits, and they may be eligible for an income tax credit that can be worth up to $1,000.
How do you qualify for assisted living in Maryland?
To qualify for assisted living in Maryland, the individual must meet certain criteria. Generally speaking, individuals must be over the age of 62, or disabled, or require some level of help with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, eating, etc. Additionally, many facilities also have additional guidelines, such as minimum levels of income and assets that must be met to be eligible for residency.
