Monroe is nestled on the western shore of Lake Erie, midway between Detroit and Toledo. In this cozy lakefront community of just over 19,550 people, seniors make up nearly 15% of its population. As one of the oldest communities in the state, Monroe boasts three designated historic districts and a number of notable sites, including the George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Monument and River Raisin National Battlefield Park. In addition to its historic charm, the city offers an abundance of modern amenities for seniors, from golf courses to unique boutiques to performing arts centers.
Seniors who retire in Monroe pay an average of $5,100 monthly for assisted living care. This is higher than the Michigan average, reflecting the city’s ideal waterfront location and numerous amenities.
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 >
Seniors in Monroe pay an average of $5,100 per month for assisted living care, which is $900 more than the state average of $4,200. Costs in neighboring Ohio ($4,350), Indiana ($4,382) are close to the national average of $4,300.
Monroe’s assisted living costs are higher than the state average, but they’re not the highest in Michigan. Less than 40 miles away in Ann Arbor, seniors pay $5,590 per month, and up in Midland, costs are nearly as high ($5,550). About twenty miles to the south in Toledo, Ohio, assisted living prices are somewhat more affordable at $4,779 monthly. Within the state of Michigan, cities with lower assisted living costs include Battle Creek ($3,725), Jackson ($3,650) and Bay City ($3,000).
Michigan’s MI Choice Medicaid waiver provides a variety of long-term care services to eligible seniors, including chore services, nursing services and adult day health services. Seniors can choose to receive waiver services at home or in a residential setting, such as an assisted living community. Eligibility is determined based on both functional and financial requirements.
For details about the MI Choice waiver program, visit our Assisted Living in Michigan page.
Contact | Description | |
Area Agency on Aging 1-B | (800) 852-7795 | This nonprofit organization connects seniors with helpful aging resources in Southeast Michigan, including support groups, transportation programs and legal assistance. As the region’s long-term care ombudsman, it helps assisted living residents resolve problems and receive the high-quality care they deserve. |
Lakeshore Legal Aid | (888) 783-8190 | Lakeshore Legal Aid offers free legal assistance to seniors in Southeast Michigan. Seniors can contact the not-for-profit law firm if they need legal advice about a non-criminal matter, such as making a will, accessing public benefits or protecting themselves from financial exploitation. |
Monroe County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) | (855) 882-2736 | Monroe County RSVP helps people 55 and older find rewarding volunteer opportunities. Seniors can lend their time and talents to support over 50 local organizations, including schools, soup kitchens, medical centers and humane societies. The organization provides expense reimbursement and liability insurance for volunteers. |
Monroe County Community College | (734) 242-7300 | At Monroe County Community College, seniors can keep their minds sharp by learning new subjects. The college offers low-cost classes about photography, acting, foreign languages and much more. These classes are open to people of all ages, and seniors enjoy a 50% discount on tuition charges. |
Monroe County Department of Veterans Affairs | (734) 240-3287 | The local Department of Veterans Affairs helps senior veterans and surviving spouses access the benefits they’re entitled to receive. The office provides information about available benefits, including those that may help cover assisted living costs, and assists with applications and claims. |
Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) | (800) 803-7174 | MMAP is a free, statewide counseling service that helps seniors understand their Medicare and Medicaid options, including the MI Choice Medicaid waiver. Its trained counselors can answer questions about coverage and eligibility. Seniors can also get help navigating other ways to pay for assisted living, including long-term care insurance. |
Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs doesn’t license all assisted living facilities. Those that require licensing must comply with comprehensive regulations, including minimum standards for resident care, food service and infection control. To learn more about the laws that may apply to Monroe-area assisted living communities, see our Assisted Living in Michigan page.