How Much Does It Cost to Live in a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

Introduction

A continuing care retirement community, or CCRC, offers a range of living options and levels of support in one place, from independent living to personal care and skilled nursing. That flexibility is a major reason many older adults consider a CCRC—but it also raises an important question: how much does it cost?

The answer depends on the community, the contract type, and the level of care you choose. At Londonderry Village, pricing varies by option, and the best way to get an accurate picture is to request a packet and speak with the marketing team for a personal visit. Here’s a helpful overview of the typical cost structure and what to consider as you compare communities.

Key Takeaways

CCRC costs usually include an upfront payment, monthly fees, or both.
At Londonderry Village, there is a "No Entrance Fee" option with monthly maintenance fees ranging from $2,000 to $5,200 per month.
Entrance fee contracts use a one-time upfront investment, and pricing details vary by residence and contract type.
Monthly fees may cover services such as maintenance, amenities, and access to higher levels of care.
The most accurate way to compare options is to request a pricing packet and schedule a personal visit.

What You Pay for in a CCRC

Understanding the basic cost structure

Most continuing care retirement communities use one of two common pricing models:
- Entrance fee contract: A one-time upfront payment plus a monthly fee.
- No entrance fee option: A lower upfront commitment with a higher monthly maintenance fee.
Costs often depend on:
- Residence type
- Contract type
- Level of care
- Included services and amenities
At Londonderry Village, the No Entrance Fee Option has monthly maintenance fees that range from $2,000 to $5,200 per month.
For entrance fee pricing, residents receive a customized contract based on their selected home and care needs.

What’s Included in CCRC Costs

A CCRC may bundle many services into the monthly fee, which can make budgeting easier.

At Londonderry Village, included items may vary by home style and level of care.
Common inclusions can include:
- Access to the fitness center, gym, pool, and classes
- Upkeep of appliances supplied in the home
- Housekeeping and laundry services in certain care settings
- Social, recreational, and spiritual programming
- Priority access to the Health Center if needed
Some items are not included and may be paid separately, such as:
- Meals
- Electric usage in most homes
- Telephone
- Cable
- Internet

Because every residence differs, it’s important to review exactly what is covered before comparing monthly rates.

How CCRC Costs Vary by Option

Examples of what affects pricing

Independent living: Often includes a residential setting with access to amenities and community life.
Personal care: May include added support such as housekeeping, laundry, and assistance services.
Skilled nursing: Typically includes a higher level of care and a different fee structure.
Entrance fee contracts: May include a credit if a resident later moves from independent living to the health center or off campus.
No entrance fee contracts: Provide another path for residents who prefer a monthly-based structure.

For example, Londonderry Village notes that an entrance fee contract may provide a credit of no less than 25% or the unamortized equity of your upfront investment, whichever is higher, if a resident needs to move to the Health Center on campus.

How to Compare Communities

Step-by-Step

Ask what pricing model is used. Find out whether the community uses an entrance fee, a no entrance fee option, or both.
Request a full fee breakdown. Monthly rates alone do not tell the whole story. Ask what is included and what costs extra.
Review care levels carefully. Independent living, personal care, and nursing care can have very different pricing.
Ask about future care transitions. Understand what happens if your needs change and you move to another level of care.
Schedule a personal visit. Seeing the community and speaking with the team can help clarify the value behind the numbers.

Common Mistakes / Pitfalls

Comparing monthly fees without checking what is included. A lower fee may exclude services that another community bundles in.
Not asking about contract flexibility. Entrance fee and no entrance fee options work differently, and the long-term impact matters.

Pro Tips / Best Practices

Ask for a written pricing packet so you can compare communities side by side.
Look beyond cost and consider lifestyle, services, and peace of mind.
Be sure to ask how pricing changes if your care needs change over time.
If possible, bring a family member or trusted advisor to your tour and financial discussion.

Conclusion

The cost of living in a continuing care retirement community can vary widely, but the key is understanding what you are paying for and how the contract works. At Londonderry Village, costs depend on the option you choose, with no entrance fee. Monthly maintenance fees ranging from $2,000 to $5,200 per month. Because pricing and inclusions vary, the best next step is to request detailed information and see the community for yourself.

FAQs

What is the average monthly cost of a CCRC?

There is no single average, because pricing depends on location, contract type, and care level. At Londonderry Village, there is no entrance fee. Monthly maintenance fees range from $2,000 to $5,200 per month.

Do continuing care retirement communities have entrance fees?

Yes, many do. An entrance fee is a one-time upfront payment used in some contracts. Londonderry Village also offers a no entrance fee option, so residents can explore the structure that best fits their needs.

Call to Action

Schedule a Tour! https://www.londonderryvillage.org/request-a-tour/

How much does it cost to live in a continuing care retirement community?