A lively small town set against a rural backdrop, Hagerstown is home to more than 40,000 people and a sizable community of seniors, who make up 13.9% of the population. As one of the fastest-growing metro areas in Maryland, the city offers a wide selection of parks, museums, theaters and historical sites, as well as a number of annual festivals. Hagerstown also hosts the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, which plays at the local Maryland Theater, and it’s near Antietam National Battlefield. Locals make regular use of the river trail for hiking, biking, fishing and dog walking. Outdoor activities are made even more enjoyable by the lush trees and the Appalachian mountains in the distance.
As they enter their retirement years, many seniors find they need extra help getting around and performing basic activities. Choosing assisted living as a long-term care option provides access to this help while still allowing for independence and an enjoyable social environment. Per the Genworth Financial 2021 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Hagerstown is $4,630, which falls between national and state averages.
This guide examines the comparative costs for assisted living throughout Maryland and also highlights local programs that can help Hagerstown seniors fully enjoy their later years.
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 >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in Maryland. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
The average monthly cost of assisted living in Hagerstown is $4,630.
Hagerstown’s average monthly price for assisted living is $130 more than the U.S. average of $4,500, but also $270 lower than the Maryland average of $4,900.
According to Genworth’s cost data, Hagerstown’s monthly average is among the lowest in Maryland. The state’s largest city, Baltimore, is $120 more expensive than Hagerstown at $4,750 a month, and the Eastern Shore city of Salisbury is $350 more expensive than Hagerstown at $4,980. Cumberland, a city roughly an hour west of Hagerstown, reports Maryland’s highest monthly price at $5,248.
Prices for other major mid-Atlantic cities are significantly higher than any location in Maryland. To the north in Philadelphia, PA, seniors see an average monthly price of $5,685 for assisted living care, which is approximately $1,000 more than Hagerstown’s cost. In the nation’s capital, Washington, DC, seniors pay $5,948 per month.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Maryland.
Contact | Description | |
Washington County Commission on Aging | (301) 790-0275 | The Washington County Commission on Aging helps seniors maintain independence by providing information, services and other resources. It provides assistance with applications, financial checkups and community counseling as well as access to outside programs that can provide financial assistance. It also has an on-site attorney who can be accessed by appointment for free advice on issues relating to elder law. |
Hagerstown Senior Activities Center | (301) 790-0275 | In connection with the Washington County Commission on Aging, the Hagerstown Senior Activities Center offers a wide selection of classes and activities including aerobics, tai chi, painting, knitting, chess and a variety of guest speakers. Many of its courses are available online to cater to those with reduced mobility. Their on-site cafe, which is open to the public four days a week, serves freshly prepared soups, salads and sandwiches. |
Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs | (301) 791-0356 | The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs helps local veterans access benefits and file disability claims. Through its central hub, veterans can access free clinic and rehabilitation services, their trust fund and a veterans center. At the center, group, individual and family counseling services help vets transition back to civilian life. |
Alzheimer’s Association Maryland Chapter | (301) 733-3550 | The Maryland chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association supports those who suffer from memory loss with programs and support groups. Its courses cover all aspects of Alzheimer’s health and well-being, with topics such as effective communication strategies and fostering positive conversations with dementia patients. The support groups and many programs are also offered online to maximize access. |
Maryland Access Point | (301) 790-0275 | Maryland Access Point (MAP) is a program offered by the state Department of Aging. It provides information and assistance to aid seniors in their daily lives. The program works with caregivers and medical professionals to inform seniors on topics such as nutrition, housing and volunteer opportunities. It also provides Options Counseling, which helps seniors and caregivers make informed decisions about long-term care. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Hagerstown area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.