Rio Rancho is the largest city in Sandoval County, New Mexico, with a population of 99,178, of which 14.6% are senior citizens. The city has a rich culture and a long history which includes influences from the Anasazi Indians and Hispanic explorers. Active seniors can take in the sights of the West Mesa volcano, treat themselves to tastings at the Casa Rondena Winery, or explore the Petroglyph National Monument. The city has a pleasant climate, with moderate rainfall, average winters and warm summers allowing seniors to explore the wonders of New Mexico all year round.
If you find you need a little help with daily activities as you age — whether getting dressed and bathing or preparing food — assisted living may be the right long-term care option for you. According to the Genworth 2021 Financial Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Rio Rancho, NM, is $4,750, which is higher than both state and national averages.
Read this guide for a comparison of Rio Rancho’s costs with those of other cities in New Mexico, as well as a look at some assistance and financial programs that support the area’s retired adults.
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 New Mexico. 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.
Rio Rancho residents pay an average of $4,750 per month for assisted living care.
State and national average prices for assisted living are roughly the same for New Mexico, the average is $4,498 while nationally, it’s just $2 higher at $4,500. Rio Rancho is about $250 higher than both.
Of the other New Mexico cities that report assisted living care prices, Santa Fe reports the highest at over $1,000 higher than Rio Rancho’s price. In Las Cruces, the average monthly cost is $255 lower than Rio Rancho’s. New Mexico’s lowest costs are reported by Farmington, which is roughly $750 less expensive than Rio Rancho at $3,999 a month. Over the state border to the west, in Flagstaff, AZ, residents pay $250 more per month for assisted living care.
NOTE: Data for Rio Rancho was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Albuquerque, was used instead.
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 New Mexico.
Contact | Description | |
Meadowlark Senior Center | (505) 891-5018 | This senior center hosts a variety of programs for those aged 55 and over. Services include health and wellness programs, exercise sessions, meal programs and intergenerational activities. The center also provides information and referrals as well as assistance with benefits applications and finding other forms of financial support. |
Sandoval County Senior Services | (505) 867-7535 | Sandoval County’s Senior Program provides a continuum of support and health services for older seniors. Available programs include congregate nutrition, fitness classes, case management and transportation services. |
Assisted Transportation Program | (505) 934-8774 | The Senior Program Administrative Office runs an assisted transportation program to take seniors to and from healthcare appointments. Transportation within the Rio Rancho area is available Monday through Friday. Seniors must book transport at least 48 hours in advance. |
Senior Citizens Law Offices of New Mexico | (505) 265-3600 | This law office provides legal services, education and advocacy for seniors in New Mexico. Eligible seniors can take advantage of free legal advice and support relating to public benefits, estate planning, healthcare and consumer rights. The office runs community events and educational sessions as well as providing one to one advice. |
Veterans Services Office | (505) 891-5000 | The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services maintains local offices for veterans who are seeking support with pensions and benefits, service referrals, medical care and other issues. Support is available for veterans and their surviving spouses or family members. The VSO offers benefits eligibility assessments, help with forms and appeals and signposting to other services. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Rio Rancho 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.