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Cambridge is home to two of the most famous universities in the world: Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Overall, the population of Cambridge skews towards the younger side, but seniors over the age of 65 still comprise 11.1% of the residents in a city with a population of 118,927.
Although the senior population is relatively smaller than the national average of 16.5%, there are many pastimes available for seniors in the city. Both universities feature lectures and performances open to the public year-round, often with world-famous lecturers and entertainers. Cambridge enjoys average winters and pleasant summers. It has above average air quality and exceptional water quality ratings.
The average monthly cost of assisted living in Cambridge, according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, is $6,100. This changes depending upon the facility chosen and the services offered.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
With an average cost of living of $6,100 a month, Cambridge is just a few dollars above the state average of $6,085 a month, and both are higher than the national average of $4,300. Of its neighbors, New York has the lowest cost of $4,800 a month, with Rhode Island next at $4,950. Only New Hampshire and Connecticut have a higher monthly cost of assisted living at $6,650 and $6,300, respectively.
The cost of assisted living is higher in Cambridge than in most cities in Massachusetts. Only Barnstable on Cape Cod is higher at $6,338 a month. Otherwise, prices tend to be lower across the state. Worcester costs $5,488 a month and Springfield is $5,750. Pittsfield, near the New York border, is $5,789 a month while Taunton has the lowest cost of assisted living at $4,950 a month.
Note: Data for Cambridge was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Boston, was used instead.
A range of financial assistance programs can help Cambridge seniors afford assisted living. Those receiving MassHealth who need assistance with at least one activity of daily living (ADL) may qualify for Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC). Seniors who are eligible for SSI may also qualify for the Massachusetts Optional State Supplement.
For more information about these programs, as well as eligibility and how to apply, visit our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.
| Contact | Description | |
| Somerville Cambridge Elderly Services | (617) 628-2601 | A nonprofit elderly services organization, also selected as the local Area Agency on Aging, Somerville Cambridge Elderly Services provides nutrition and wellness programs as well as information and resources for seniors on a wide variety of issues related to aging, caregiving and disabilities. |
| Citywide Senior Center | (617) 349-4300 | Cambridge operates two senior centers in the city, with the Citywide Senior Center located in Davis Square being the largest. It is a one stop shop that offers a multitude of services for seniors and others who live in the surrounding area. Programs include arts and craft classes, ESL and computer classes, line dancing, meals served several days a week, exercise programs and a senior food pantry. |
| Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services | (617) 210-5480 | The department works to help veterans and their families with information on a variety of programs such as health care and potential benefits. The goal of the department is to ensure that all military veterans and their families acquire all the benefits to which they are entitled. The department also has two Soldiers Homes for Veterans, including one in nearby Chelsea, both of which offer residential and long-term care. |
| Cambridge Council on Aging | (617) 349-6220 | The goal of the council is to encourage, coordinate and promote existing and new services that enhance the quality of life for seniors in Cambridge. it can also refer seniors to benefits, activities and programs that are available in the area. |
| SHINE | Office appt: (617) 349-6220In-home appt: (617) 628-2601 | Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone (SHINE) is a program composed of volunteer health benefits counselors. They have been certified and trained to provide free information and assistance on health benefits and insurance for seniors, their families or caregivers. |
As in all of Massachusetts, assisted living communities in Cambridge must be certified by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and comply with all applicable state laws and regulations. More information on these laws and regulations can be found by visiting our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.
