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The state capital of Springfield, Illinois, has many advantages and attractions for the aging population, and it also has slightly higher percentage of people aged 65 and older than the country overall. Springfield’s general cost of living is very low, with a median home price less than the national average, and transportation costs that are 30% lower. The affordability and culture of Springfield and the surrounding area, which includes many historic sites related to Abraham Lincoln, are just two reasons for seniors to take note of the city when considering their retirement options.
Assisted living facilities cater to seniors who are still healthy and independent but who may need assistance with some daily living activities. This could include help with personal care, hygiene, mobility or medication management. According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost for assisted living in Springfield is $5,110, which is $610 more than the national average of $4,500.
To help seniors navigate care options, this guide provides information about assisted living in Springfield, compares costs with other cities and states, and discusses ways to afford it.
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 Illinois. 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.
Seniors in Springfield pay an average of $5,110 per month for assisted living services.
The average cost of assisted living in Illinois is $4,488, which is $12 less than the national average of $4,500. In Springfield, the average cost is much higher at $5,110 per month or $622 more than the average for Illinois.
At $5,110, Springfield is not the most expensive city in Illinois for assisted living care — but by no means is it the most affordable. Living in Springfield could save between $50 and $140 per month compared to Bloomington ($5,160) and Rockford ($5,250). Illinois cities that offer more affordable assisted living care include Chicago ($4,825), Champaign ($4,750), Decatur ($4,382) and Danville ($4,138). And seniors living in Peoria, where the average monthly cost for assisted living care is $4,131, may save $979 compared to those in Springfield.
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 Illinois.
| Contact | Description | |
| Area Agency on Aging | (217) 787-9234 | AgeLinc is the local AAA for residents of Springfield and Sangamon County. This agency is the first point of contact for seniors and family caregivers to access aging-related services. Staff members can provide information about state and federal benefits, local assisted living facilities and relevant programs. AAAs are publicly funded, and most services are free for residents aged 60 and over. |
| Veterans Assistance Commission | (217) 753-6680 | Springfield’s veterans and their eligible family members are served by the Sangamon County VAC. Veterans Service Officers can help with one-time emergency assistance, as well as access to ongoing benefits. Assisted living residents may be eligible for a substantial increase in their monthly VA pension. Veterans can also access VA health care and other programs, such as counseling and transportation to VA facilities in the state. |
| Senior Services of Central Illinois | (217) 528-4035 | This agency operates a senior center in Springfield, which hosts activities and meals in a social environment. Staff members are also available to help seniors with a variety of programs, such as the Senior Health Assistance Program and Choices for Care. These programs are useful in the search and application process for insurance, benefits and long-term care. SSCI is a nonprofit that receives city and state funding to provide educational services and nonmedical care to seniors. |
| Long-Term Care Ombudsman | (217) 523-8419 | I CARE -Project Advocate is the local organization that provides ombudsman services for residents of long-term care facilities in the area, and those seeking entrance. Seniors can learn about their rights and report abuse or neglect, and ask questions about nearby assisted living communities. Ombudsmen visit facilities in the area every month to listen to residents and advocate on their behalf. This and other Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs across the state are authorized by the Illinois Department of Aging. |
| Land of Lincoln Legal Aid | (877) 342-7891 | Individuals aged 65 or older in Springfield can get free information, assistance and legal representation for a variety of civil matters. These useful services include powers of attorney, simple wills and financial issues, such as bankruptcy and fraud prevention. Staff also help protect against fraud, neglect and other forms of elder abuse. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Springfield 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.
