The landscape of senior living in the United States is extensive and growing, driven by the aging Baby Boomer generation. Understanding the total number of facilities requires looking beyond just one type of care. The data indicates a robust market of tens of thousands of communities across multiple categories, including assisted living, nursing homes, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). These facilities cater to a wide spectrum of needs, from independent living for active seniors to 24/7 skilled nursing care for those with complex medical requirements.
Number of assisted living communities
Assisted living is the most prevalent type of senior living community in the U.S. As of the most recent data from the American Health Care Association (AHCA/NCAL) and others, the number of assisted living communities exceeds 30,000. These communities offer nearly 1.2 million licensed beds nationwide, serving hundreds of thousands of residents.
- Distribution: Geographically, the distribution of assisted living communities varies. The West and South have a higher concentration of facilities compared to the Midwest and Northeast.
- Size: The average size of an assisted living community is about 37 licensed beds, though there is a wide range.
- Ownership: A majority of assisted living communities are chain-affiliated, while a significant portion remains independently owned.
Number of nursing homes
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), provide a higher level of medical care and supervision than assisted living. According to data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources, there are over 15,000 certified nursing homes in the U.S..
- Medical Care: These facilities offer 24-hour nursing care, rehabilitation services, and personal care assistance for residents with chronic health conditions or those recovering from an illness or injury.
- Ownership: A significant proportion of nursing homes are for-profit entities.
- Capacity: In 2020, nursing homes in the U.S. offered 1.6 million licensed beds.
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
CCRCs, or life plan communities, offer multiple levels of care in one location, including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. As of recent estimates, there are around 1,900 CCRCs in the United States. This model allows residents to age in place, transitioning between different care levels as their needs change over time.
Other types of senior living facilities
Beyond the primary categories, the senior living market includes other facilities and services that serve the elderly. These include:
- Independent living communities: These communities are designed for active seniors who require minimal to no assistance with daily activities but appreciate amenities and social opportunities.
- Memory care units: Specialized facilities or wings within assisted living or nursing homes dedicated to individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
- Board and care homes: Also known as residential care facilities, these small, private homes typically house 20 or fewer residents and provide personal care and meals.
- Adult day services centers: These centers provide supervised care and social activities during the day for seniors who live at home.
The Future of the Senior Living Market
The senior living market is projected to continue its expansion, with demand expected to rise significantly in the coming years due to the aging population. While the number of facilities is substantial, market analysis from NIC MAP Vision indicates that current development rates may not be enough to meet the growing needs, pointing to a potential future supply gap. This trend suggests continued investment and growth in the sector, as well as a focus on expanding affordable options for middle-income seniors.
Comparison of Senior Living Facility Types
| Feature | Assisted Living Facilities | Nursing Homes (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level of Care | Assistance with daily activities (ADLs) and medication management. | 24/7 medical care, nursing supervision, and rehabilitation services. | Multiple levels of care (independent, assisted, skilled nursing) on one campus. |
| Environment | Residential, apartment-style living with shared common areas. | Clinical, hospital-like setting, often with shared rooms. | Campus-like setting with various housing options. |
| Median Monthly Cost | Approximately $4,500-$5,676 (varies by location). | Higher, from $7,908 (semi-private) to $9,034 (private) or more. | Varies greatly, often with a large entrance fee plus monthly fees. |
| Financial Coverage | Primarily private pay, some long-term care insurance, and state Medicaid waivers. | Medicaid, Medicare (for short-term stays), private pay, and long-term care insurance. | Primarily private pay, includes entrance fees and monthly charges. |
| Typical Resident | Seniors needing some help with daily tasks but desiring independence. | Seniors with chronic health conditions requiring continuous medical supervision. | Seniors planning for the future, wanting a guaranteed continuum of care. |
Conclusion
The sheer volume and variety of senior living options in the US—from independent living communities to skilled nursing facilities—highlight a dynamic and evolving market designed to meet the needs of a diverse aging population. With tens of thousands of facilities and millions of licensed beds, the industry continues to adapt to demand and changing demographics. While challenges related to affordability and supply exist, the market is poised for growth and innovation to serve a growing number of older adults. A comprehensive understanding of the different facility types and their specific care models is essential for families navigating their senior care options. For detailed state-specific figures on assisted living, the National Center for Assisted Living provides estimates.
