What is the average size of an assisted living facility?

According to the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), the average size of an assisted living community in the U.S. is approximately 39 licensed beds. However, this average masks a wide range of facility sizes, from small, home-like settings with fewer than 10 residents to large, campus-style communities with over 100. Understanding the differences in size is crucial for families and seniors determining the best fit for their needs.

Quick Summary

The average assisted living facility has around 39 licensed beds, though facility sizes vary greatly, with many smaller homes and larger communities serving different needs. Key factors influenced by a facility's size include the level of personalized care, available amenities, and the overall social environment.

Key Points

• Average Size: The typical assisted living facility in the U.S. has around 39 licensed beds, according to the NCAL.

• Size Variation: Assisted living options range from small, home-like settings with fewer than 10 residents to large, campus-style communities with over 100 beds.

• Personalized Care: Smaller facilities often provide a higher staff-to-resident ratio and more individualized care, fostering closer relationships.

• Amenities and Social Life: Large communities offer a wider array of amenities and diverse social opportunities, catering to active seniors.

• Cost Considerations: The size and scope of a facility, along with location and amenities, directly influence the cost of care.

• Personal Preference Matters: The best choice depends on whether a senior prefers an intimate, quiet environment or a bustling, amenity-rich community.

The landscape of assisted living facilities is far from uniform, with a wide spectrum of community sizes available to seniors and their families. While national averages provide a useful benchmark, they don't tell the whole story. The size of a facility often dictates the type of living environment, the ratio of staff to residents, and the variety of amenities offered. Understanding these distinctions is essential for making an informed decision about senior care.

The Average: A Snapshot of Facility Size

Recent data from the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) indicates that the average size of an assisted living community is around 39 licensed beds. Other industry analyses cite similar figures, with averages ranging from 33 to 39 beds. It's important to note that this figure represents a mean across all types of assisted living, from smaller, independently owned homes to large, corporate-affiliated communities.

Size variations in assisted living

Facilities can be categorized into several size tiers, each with distinct characteristics:

• Small-Scale Facilities: These homes often have fewer than 10 residents, with some licensing models covering just 4 to 10 beds. They are typically independently owned and managed, offering a more intimate, home-like setting.
• Medium-Sized Facilities: Ranging from 11 to 25 beds, these offer a balance between the intimacy of a small home and the increased resources of a larger community.
• Large-Scale Facilities: These communities typically have 26 to 100 beds or more, with some large-scale facilities exceeding 200 units. They are often corporate-owned and feature extensive amenities.

These categories are not just numerical distinctions; they represent fundamentally different experiences for residents.

Small vs. Large: A Comparison of Assisted Living Options

Choosing between a small, home-like setting and a large, campus-style community depends heavily on a senior's individual needs, preferences, and desired lifestyle. The trade-offs involve atmosphere, social opportunities, and the level of personalized attention.

Comparison of facility sizes

Feature	Small, Home-Like Assisted Living (e.g., 4–25 beds)	Large, Campus-Style Assisted Living (e.g., 26+ beds)
Environment	Cozier, intimate, and more personal; often resembles a family home.	More spacious, resembling a hotel or apartment complex; can feel institutional to some.
Caregiver Ratio	Higher staff-to-resident ratio, leading to more personalized, one-on-one care and stronger relationships.	Lower staff-to-resident ratio is common, potentially resulting in less personalized attention.
Amenities	Limited amenities, such as communal dining and small living areas; fewer specialized services.	Wide range of amenities, including fitness centers, beauty salons, multiple dining venues, and pools.
Social Opportunities	Smaller, more tight-knit social groups; residents know each other well.	Larger resident population provides more diverse social opportunities and structured activities.
Flexibility	More flexibility in daily routines, schedules, and personalized activities.	More structured and rigid daily schedules due to a larger resident population.
Specialized Care	Fewer resources for highly specialized medical or memory care, though some specialize in dementia.	Greater capacity for specialized care units for memory care, rehabilitation, or advanced medical needs.
Cost	Costs can vary but may be more affordable, especially in board and care homes.	Pricing often reflects the extensive amenities and care levels; costs can be significantly higher.
Ownership	Often independently owned and operated, with a strong focus on local community.	Frequently part of a larger corporate chain or managed by a large company.

What Determines a Facility's Size?

The size of an assisted living facility is influenced by several factors, including market demand, location, financial investment, and state-level regulations. Some states have different licensing categories based on facility size, which can impact staffing requirements and the level of care that can be provided. For instance, a small, residential care home for the elderly (RCFE) may have a different regulatory framework than a large-scale assisted living community.

Financial considerations also play a role, as the investment required to build and operate a large, resort-style campus is substantially greater than that of a smaller, renovated residential home. Demographics also factor in, with developers targeting different facility sizes based on the specific needs of the local senior population.

Making the Right Choice

When evaluating assisted living options, the size of the facility should be just one part of the equation. Ultimately, the best choice depends on a senior's personal preferences and care requirements. For those who thrive in a bustling, social environment with many amenities, a large community may be ideal. For others who prefer a quieter, more intimate setting with highly personalized attention, a smaller, home-like residence is often the better option.

It is highly recommended to visit prospective facilities, speak with current residents and staff, and carefully review the level of care offered. By doing so, families can move beyond the average size and find a community that feels truly like home. A good starting point for research is an authoritative resource like the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), which provides valuable industry statistics and facts.

Conclusion

While the average size of an assisted living facility hovers around 39 licensed beds, the industry is composed of a diverse range of communities. From cozy, family-style homes with a handful of residents to expansive, corporate-owned campuses, the size of a facility fundamentally shapes the resident experience. For prospective residents and their families, the key is to consider how a facility's scale aligns with their individual care needs, social preferences, and desired atmosphere. Moving beyond the average to explore the full spectrum of options is the surest path to finding the right fit for a loved one's golden years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a larger assisted living facility better than a smaller one?

Not necessarily. The 'better' option depends on the individual's needs and preferences. Larger facilities typically offer more amenities and social opportunities, while smaller ones provide a more intimate, home-like environment with greater personalized attention.

What is the difference between an assisted living facility and a residential care home?

Residential care homes (also known as board and care homes) are typically smaller, with 20 or fewer residents, and are often located in a residential neighborhood. Assisted living facilities are generally larger, may resemble apartment complexes, and offer a wider range of amenities and services.

How does facility size affect the cost of assisted living?

Generally, larger facilities with a broader range of amenities and services may have higher monthly costs. Smaller, more intimate facilities or residential care homes can sometimes be a more cost-effective option, depending on the level of care needed.

Do small assisted living facilities offer memory care?

Yes, many small assisted living facilities specialize in memory care, particularly for residents with dementia. In fact, smaller communities can offer a less overstimulating and more home-like environment, which can be beneficial for those with cognitive challenges.

How can I find out the size of an assisted living facility?

You can typically find information on a facility's size, including the number of licensed beds, on its website or by contacting the facility directly. State regulatory websites, often run by the Department of Health, also maintain licensing records and facility details.

Does the staff-to-resident ratio differ between large and small facilities?

Yes, it often does. Smaller facilities generally have a higher staff-to-resident ratio, which allows for more one-on-one attention. Larger facilities, due to their scale, often have lower ratios, potentially leading to less personalized care.

What kind of atmosphere can I expect in a large assisted living community?

A large assisted living community often features a more bustling, social atmosphere with a wide variety of activities, clubs, and events. The environment may feel more structured and less personal than a smaller, home-like setting.