The senior living landscape in the United States is extensive and diverse, offering a range of options that cater to different levels of care and lifestyles. While a precise, single count for every type of senior living is difficult due to varying reporting methods and facility categories, the latest data available from respected sources provides a clear picture of the market. Below is a detailed look at the numbers for the primary types of senior living communities, showing the significant and growing infrastructure dedicated to elder care.
Assisted Living and Residential Care Communities
Assisted living and residential care facilities are a major component of the senior living market, offering support for older adults who need help with daily activities but do not require 24/7 skilled medical care.
- Total Facilities: Based on data from early to mid-2025, the number of assisted living communities is estimated to be between 30,500 and 32,820. Some data sets combine these with other residential care communities, reporting approximately 32,231 such facilities in 2022.
- Capacity: These facilities collectively offer nearly 1.2 million licensed beds nationwide.
- Ownership: A majority of assisted living communities operate under a for-profit model.
Nursing Homes and Skilled Nursing Facilities
For seniors with more complex medical needs or those requiring long-term care, nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), provide round-the-clock professional medical supervision.
- Total Facilities: There are approximately 15,600 nursing homes and SNFs across the U.S. as of late 2024 and early 2025.
- Capacity: These facilities have a substantial capacity, holding over 1.7 million licensed beds.
- Residents: The number of residents in certified nursing facilities was over 1.2 million in July 2022.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
CCRCs, or Life Plan Communities, are unique in that they offer multiple levels of care on a single campus, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing.
- Total Facilities: There are more than 1,900 CCRCs in the U.S., with some estimates indicating the number has more than doubled over the past decade.
Independent and Retirement Communities
These communities are for active, independent seniors who do not require daily personal or medical assistance. They focus on providing a maintenance-free lifestyle with social opportunities.
- Market Size: The broader category of "Retirement Communities" included 19,527 businesses in 2024, reflecting the size of this sector.
Comparison of Senior Living Community Types
| Feature | Independent Living | Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing / Nursing Home | Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Active, self-sufficient seniors seeking a maintenance-free, social lifestyle. | Seniors needing some help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. | Seniors with chronic health conditions or complex medical needs requiring 24/7 medical supervision. | Seniors who want to secure a full continuum of care in a single location for the long term. |
| Cost | Typically the least expensive, primarily covering housing, meals, and amenities. | Higher than independent living due to included care services. | Often the most expensive due to high level of medical care and staffing. | Varies widely, often requiring a substantial entry fee in addition to monthly fees. |
| Staffing | On-site staff for security and emergencies, but not for daily personal care. | Caregivers and nurses available 24/7 for assistance with daily activities. | Highly trained medical staff and registered nurses providing continuous medical care. | A range of staff, including caregivers, nurses, and medical professionals, depending on the level of care. |
| Residences | Apartments, condos, or single-family homes. | Private or semi-private apartments with kitchenettes. | Private or semi-private rooms that are typically more clinical in feel. | A mix of residences, from independent living apartments to skilled nursing rooms. |
The Driving Factors Behind Senior Living Growth
Several factors contribute to the robust and expanding senior living market in the US. A primary driver is the ongoing aging of the Baby Boomer generation, a large demographic cohort transitioning into retirement. This generation is more active and has higher expectations for their retirement living, leading to a greater diversity of options and more sophisticated amenities.
Occupancy and Market Trends
Recent data shows strong demand for senior living options, with occupancy rates recovering and rising significantly post-pandemic. The broader senior living sector, which includes independent living, assisted living, and memory care, reached an occupancy rate of 84.2% as of August 2023. This sustained high occupancy is a testament to the rising need for professional elder care services. The market itself is substantial, valued at $91.8 billion in 2022 for assisted living alone, and is projected to continue growing.
Conclusion
The number of senior living communities across the US is substantial and varied, offering options for seniors with diverse needs and preferences. With over 30,000 assisted living communities, more than 15,000 nursing homes, and nearly 2,000 CCRCs, there is a large and growing infrastructure available. The market continues to evolve, driven by a large aging population and a demand for a wider range of services and amenities. Families can find the right fit by carefully considering the level of care required, desired lifestyle, and budget. For further research, resources like the National Center for Assisted Living provide valuable data and insights into the market.
