10 Best Independent Living Communities in Birmingham, AL
Older adults seeking a stress-free, relaxing pace of life may want to consider independent living. This isn’t a living situation that provides medical care or supervision. Instead, it’s for seniors who want a built-in community right at their front door. Here, life is catered to you and all the activities you enjoy.
From social gathering areas to amenities such as fitness centers and complimentary transportation, independent living options in Birmingham, Alabama, can take the hassle out of life for seniors who are ready to relax. In fact, Birmingham itself is a great place for independent living given its many top-rated attractions as well as its competitive cost of living, which sits roughly 17% below the national average. With 11 independent living facilities within 10 miles of downtown Birmingham alone in our network, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
In this guide, we’ll cover the various options available, their costs, ways to pay, as well as options for health care and transportation. We’ll also take a look at the Birmingham community and things you can do here. The Birmingham area offers a stimulating experience for those seeking independent living options. From the Birmingham Museum of Art to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, with many top-rated dining options in between, Birmingham has something suited to everyone’s taste.
Birmingham Independent Living Facilities | 533 Reviews
She is very happy there - she enjoys the activities, the people and the food. Very positive! The staff members were very helpful and accommodating - the meals were very good and, although I did not meet a...
Moved my mother & stepdad into Assisted Living in [date removed]. This facility is a bit higher end and the rates reflect that. IF you have a couple to share a room, the rate becomes more "do-able". This...
I liked everything about the community and would highly recommend it. We picked this community because it was one level, clean, and reasonably priced for that area.
I chose Town Village Vestavia Hills because of the pool, the washer and dryers are in each unit, and the friendliness of the staff and residents. The rent goes up so much each year.
It just felt right. Everyone was very nice and it had what we were looking for. Also word of mouth...we heard good things from friends
They are very helpful. The best place my dad has been in. The staff is amazing and understand our needs. I would recommend them to anyone. Skyline is wonderful.
Everything is great except they can be really slow with important maintenence requests such as the AC. Overall is it a great place, especially for our price point.
Our objective was to find a place for my 95 year old mother with the type of dementia that still allowed her to think rationally, but was incapable of retaining any new information, even during a brief...
After much research we chose Cahaba Ridge six years ago as the best senior community for my in-laws as they moved from out of state to be near us. We are so glad we did. This is truly an aging-in-place...
This is our second year to have our mom at The Gardens. Initially, she was not an easy placement, but the staff at The Gardens made all the difference in the world. Now Mom loves The Gardens and thinks if it...
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The dining room could be cleaner and swept between meals or at least at the end of the day. You will come in for lunch and shreds of dinner will be on the floor from the night before. It makes me wonder if...
We have only been here a couple of weeks, this has been the most friendly facility we have looked at. The entire staff seem to be happy and friendly as well, answering questions that may or may not be their...
Pleasant Villa Retirement home was excellent! They were very caring, super clean, excellent condition, and ran very professionally and reasonably priced. We have nothing but good things to say about these...
It was a great value and very nice staff. I felt very confident that he would be safe and taken care of. Dad was proud of his new home. I would recommend this facility to family and friends! The only issue I...
From the first time that I visited Galleria Woods, I knew that it was the place for me! I love my Garden Home and the privacy that it gives me overlooking the Cahaba River. I enjoy my walks up to the "Big...
I placed my mom here for respite care and received great service. She was provided great care by the staff. She has dementia and the staff were skilled with dealing with dementia patients. Thanks to [name...
I wanted to write a review for the Regency Retirement Village and share our experience. We planned an out-of-state move with my mother-in-law of 90 years. This was a very tough move for us to make but we...
Very caring staff. Lived there through covid. They checked on me daily. Had to move back with family to help care for great grands after my son passed away. May move back some day.
This community was very nice and the people were very friendly however, I needed my aunt in a community where they gathered and there were more gathering places at another community. The people were very...
We chose Kirkwood by the River because of the convenient location for me and it was a relatively good price compared to some others we looked at. She had a 1 bedroom and it was about 600 square feet. The...
My mother in law is happy there and that makes all the difference. Twice they have noticed and issue that needed medical attention that we could not see. They are very inclusive.
My loved one has recently moved into this community and so far everything is going well for him there. The staff have been very friendly and I am comfortable with the quality of care they are providing him....
Our methodology
How we rank order the Birmingham community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Birmingham community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of independent living in the Birmingham area
- What families are saying about independent living in Birmingham
- How people pay for independent living in Birmingham
- Understanding Alabama’s laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in Birmingham
- Birmingham independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Birmingham? Here are some highlights for seniors.
Costs of independent living in the Birmingham area
According to A Place for Mom’s data, the average actual monthly cost of living for independent living facilities within our network of partners in Birmingham is $3,188,[01] which is around 17% lower than the national average.[01] This cost includes any associated fees and service fee add-ons, but it can vary depending on location, floor plan, amenities, and additional services.
Below, you’ll see the average baseline costs of independent living in the Birmingham area. Please note that this information doesn’t include add-on fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Birmingham, AL vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Birmingham, AL vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Birmingham vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Birmingham, AL by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Birmingham over time
What families are saying about independent living in Birmingham
Recent reviews for independent living in Birmingham
Kirkwood by the River in Birmingham, AL
Fair Haven Retirement Community in Birmingham, AL
Proveer at Grayson Valley in Birmingham, AL
How people pay for independent living in Birmingham
Once you’ve decided on the community you’d like to live in, the next step is figuring out payment options.
Fortunately, there are several ways to pay for your stay. These include private payment options and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. Unlike assisted living, however, independent living doesn’t accept Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance. Although you won’t be able to use Medicaid or Medicare to pay for your home, you may find that Medicaid or Medicare will cover the costs of potential in-home care services that you may need. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about your payment options.
How private payment options are calculated will depend largely on your finances. This includes your income, savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, investment returns, plus any of the following:
Senior veterans might wonder how to cover independent living costs. Here are ways that we recommend funding your independent living expenses.
Veterans pension
Seniors who qualify for a VA pension are able to use this monthly income for their costs of living. To qualify for the pension, veterans ages 65+ must have served at least one day during wartime. Additionally, they must also meet certain net worth and income standards defined by Congress. As of December 2022, a veteran’s net worth must be lower than $150,538 in order to qualify for a pension.
VA Aid and Attendance
VA healthcare participants with disabilities who receive a pension might also qualify for VA Aid and Attendance. To receive the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit, one of the following eligibility requirements must be true:
- You need someone to help them perform daily living activities.
- You need to stay in bed (or spend much of the day in bed) due to illness.
- You reside in a nursing home due to loss of mental or physical abilities.
- Your eyesight is very limited.
Local options for Birmingham veterans
Senior veterans in or looking to move to the Birmingham area can find local assistance through the Jefferson County Veterans Service Office of Birmingham or the Birmingham VA Medical Center.
Birmingham’s United Way also has the Priority Veteran program, which helps senior veterans find permanent housing and assists with living expenses. It also offers advocacy for disputes and in obtaining benefits. The local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) chapter and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter can also offer legal representation and benefit advisory.
There are approximately 9,061 veterans living in Birmingham
Percent of Birmingham veterans that are 65 or older, according to the US Census Bureau
Resources for Birmingham veterans
Jefferson County Veterans Service Office
1515 Sixth Ave. S, Five West
Cooper Green Mercy Health Services
Birmingham, AL 35233
Phone: 205-521-7305
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Birmingham VA Medical Center
700 S 19th St.
Birmingham, AL 35233
Phone: 205-933-8101
Hours: 24/7
VFW, Kelly Ingram Post 668
1801 11th Ave. N
Birmingham, AL 35234
Phone: 205-252-2696
Email: cmd@vfw668.org
DAV Birmingham Chapter 4
238 Second Ave. N
Birmingham, AL 35204
Phone: 205-202-4460
Priority Veteran Office
3600 Eighth Ave. S
P.O. Box 320189
Birmingham, AL 35232
Phone: 866-460-3827
Email: information@priorityveteran.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Local Veteran Service Officer
Angela Hunter
a.hunter@va.alabama.gov
In Birmingham, the Medicaid program is simply called Alabama Medicaid. This is healthcare for low-income residents that pays for services such as medical appointments, hospital stays, and rehabilitation. You can apply for Alabama Medicaid online and use this document for guidance.
To apply for Alabama Medicaid you will need the following information:
- Copies of your Medicare and Social Security cards
- Verification of gross income
- Verification of CDs, IRAs, and savings bonds
- Verification of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
- Deeds to any property that you currently own
- Copies of trusts, mortgages, loans and promissory notes
- Copies of all insurance policies that you hold
- Copies of pre-need/pre-arranged burial contracts
- Verification of gross wages
- Copy of power attorney, guardianship papers, or curator papers
Alabama Medicaid doesn’t cover the rent cost of independent living. However, if you require in-home health care services, it’s a helpful resource. You can use the Home and Community-Based Waiver Services program to access these options. This includes information on the Personal Choices program, which allots individuals a monthly allowance for necessary services.
Help with navigation benefits can be found through the local United Way or the long-term care ombudsman program. The local ombudsman representatives are Sheree Head, Marc Newell, and Lakinda Taylor.
Birmingham resident Medicaid resources
Alabama Medicaid
600 Beacon Parkway W
Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone: 866-371-4073
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
United Way Area Agency on Aging of Jefferson County
3600 Eighth Ave. S
Birmingham, AL 35222
Phone: 1-800-243-5463
Alabama’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Phone: 1-800-AGE-LINE (1-800-243-5463)
Medicare is a federal program for people 65 and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease. Like Medicaid, Medicare does not cover the cost of housing or rent. However, it can be a very useful tool for those who need help with things such as medical equipment, doctor visits, and hospital stays.
There are several Medicare programs specific to Birmingham available for those who are eligible. Some help with costs, some help with advocacy. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) in Alabama covers many needs that seniors might have from caregiver assistance to legal assistance. The local ombudsman is a great resource for those needing protection, specifically in regards to their health, safety, welfare, and rights granted to Alabama’s long-term care residents. The ombudsman is available for anyone to use.
Additionally, there are two Social Security Administration offices in Birmingham. The Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS) helps people navigate Medicare, but it doesn’t cover medical costs. Instead, It’s a cabinet-level agency that administers programs for those with disabilities, caregivers, and senior citizens. The UWAAA of Jefferson County works under the direction of the ADSS to assess the needs of older persons, distribute funds, and implement a wide range of programs accordingly.
Birmingham resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
1200 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.
Birmingham, AL 35285
Phone: 866-397-4238
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1972 Gadsden Highway
Birmingham, AL 35235
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Alabama Department of Senior Services
Alabama Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (Virginia Moore-Bell, Director)
RSA Tower
201 Monroe St.
Suite 350
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: 334-242-5753
Email: ageline@adss.alabama.gov
United Way Area Agency on Aging of Jefferson County (UWAAA)
3600 Eighth Ave. S.
Birmingham, AL 35222
Phone: 1-800-243-5463
Birmingham ombudsman representatives (part of the UWAAA)
Contact: Sheree Head
Contact: Marc Newell
Contact: Lakinda Taylor
Understanding Alabama’s laws and regulations for independent living communities
There are no laws and regulations for independent living communities in Alabama, only for assisted living facilities. There’s also no set list of of requirements to live in an independent facility or community in Alabama, but there are some common requirements that we see throughout the state:
- Most residents must be at least 55 years old. Age requirements might be higher at different facilities.
- Health is a crucial factor for independent living facilities or communities. These are facilities designed with people who are in good health and are able to care for themselves.
- Background checks are common in Alabama when applying to live in an independent facility or community. This is to ensure that residents are not a threat to the safety of other residents.
- Residents must not have active substance abuse issues.
Alabama Department of Public Health
201 Monroe St.
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: 1-800-252-1818
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Birmingham independent living communities
Birmingham suggests that all persons follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance when it comes to protecting themselves and others from the contraction and spreading of COVID-19. To protect yourself, you’re encouraged to do the following activities:
- Wash your hands often and cover your face when you cough or sneeze.
- Stay home and avoid public contact if you’re feeling ill.
- Avoid contact with others who feel ill.
- Stay up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.
- Avoid large crowds and poorly ventilated spaces.
- Isolate, if recommended.
You can find a test-to-treat site near you by clicking here. You can also learn more about Alabama’s COVID-19 guidance here.
Vaccinations. The state of Alabama strongly encourages all persons to stay up to date with vaccines and boosters.
Masking. Masking is not required in the state of Alabama with the exception of medical facilities.
Types of independent living in Birmingham
Independent living in Birmingham is for senior adults seeking a community where they can socialize and live a hassle-free life. Seniors will be surrounded by great Southern cuisine, beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, plus access to excellent healthcare services.
Great Value
The average cost of an independent living facility in Birmingham is around 17% less than the national average, according to A Place for Mom’s data. Despite this, you still get many perks from independent living here. These include social activities and outings, home maintenance and repair, nutritious meals and snacks, laundry services, and housekeeping.
Combination of Care
You will find that the independent living facilities in Birmingham tend to either be standalone communities (roughly 50%) or part of a larger entity, such as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), a form of long-term care that allow seniors to first move into a community in independent or assisted living and then transition into memory care if needed. Other independent living communities in Birmingham offer facilities for independent living, assisted living, and memory care on the same premises but aren’t designated as CCRCs.
Birmingham independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Birmingham independent living
Availability of select dining options in Birmingham independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Birmingham independent living
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Unfamiliar with Birmingham? Here are some highlights for seniors.
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Birmingham
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Birmingham population
Median annual income for Birmingham seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Birmingham
Birmingham is home to two highly ranked hospitals as well as a host of other medical facilities and senior-specific clinics.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital
Out of 4,515 hospitals in the U.S., UAB hospital is ranked number 36 in the nation when it comes to geriatric services. In particular, UAB also specializes in cardiology, heart surgery, neurology, and is known for its cancer center.
Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham
Known for its cardiology program, orthopedics program, and cancer center, Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham is a Catholic hospital that has been serving the community for 120 years. It is in the top three hospitals in Alabama.
Birmingham U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center
This healthcare system offers many programs and services for veterans. Some of these programs and services include a crisis line for veterans, vocational rehab, and caregiver services. With several locations, veterans in Birmingham can find an outpatient center somewhere nearby.
Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
This medical center is known for cardiology, orthopedics, and women’s health.
Grandview Medical Center
This medical center is known for its cancer center, heart and vascular health center, and orthopedics program.
Princeton Baptist Medical Center
Known for its cancer center, orthopedics program, neurology and neurosurgery program.
Transportation for seniors in Birmingham
Due to Birmingham’s layout and spread, most residents use cars as their main mode of transportation. Although there is public transportation available, it’s not as robust as the options in other major cities.
Fortunately, Jefferson County’s Senior Services Division oversees a transportation service called ClasTran. ClasTran provides essential transportation for seniors residing in senior centers in Brighton, Center Point, Clay, Exeter-Fairfax, Fairfield, Forestdale, Hoover, Hueytown, Leeds, Edgewater, Sylvan Springs, Hopewell, Midfield, Morris and Tarrant Monday through Friday.
MAX Transit offers paratransit door-to-door services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. The cost is $2.50 per ride. SilverRide another door-to-door transit for seniors. Much like MAX Transit, all drivers have been trained to assist people with mobility issues. UberASSIST is Uber’s ride-sharing service that is specifically for individuals with disabilities.
Birmingham has a walk score of 33, which means getting around on foot is not a great option. This is a score out of 100 calculated based on a city’s public density, walking routes, public transit options, and bike infrastructure. [02]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Birmingham
Birmingham has no shortage of fun things to do. Whether it is a weekday or a weekend — or whether you want to be outside or inside — the city has something intriguing to offer near you.
Museums in Birmingham
Automotive enthusiasts, history buffs, art lovers, and others will be happy to see the variety of attractions and interesting sites in the Birmingham area:
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
- A.G. Gaston Motel
- Civil Rights Institute
- Kelly Ingram Park
- Birmingham Museum of Art
- Alabama Theater
- The Farmers Market at Pepper Place
- Christenberry Planetarium
- Birmingham Race Course and Casino
Outdoor activities in Birmingham
Birmingham has a wide range of outdoor activities, including opportunities for those with disabilities:
Senior-specific activities in Birmingham
Those looking for senior-specific activities can visit one of these three senior centers, all within 25 minutes of downtown Birmingham:
- Hoover Senior Center offers a fitness center, library, and computer lab as well as a variety of classes and activities. Membership is free for those who are over 55 and residents of Hoover.
- Homewood Senior Center offers social events, arts and crafts classes, and exercise classes. The center itself also has a game room, library, and computer lab. Residents of Homewood who are 60 and older receive free membership.
- Trussville Senior Center offers game nights, exercise classes, and educational seminars. Residents of Trussville ages 60 and over will be able to use the library, fitness center, and computer lab free of charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Danberry at Inverness, Gardens of Pelham and Monark Grove Greystone are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Birmingham, AL. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Birmingham is $3,779 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
Test answer:
The average cost of Independent Living in Birmingham is $3,779 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Walk Score. Living in Birmingham.
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- Hoover, Alabama
- Homewood, Alabama
- Trussville, Alabama
- Bessemer, Alabama
- Vestavia Hills, Alabama
- Alabaster, Alabama
- Gardendale, Alabama
- Irondale, Alabama
- Pelham, Alabama
- Chelsea, Alabama
- Pleasant Grove, Alabama
- Mountain Brook, Alabama
- Leeds, Alabama
- Moody, Alabama
- Helena, Alabama
- McCalla, Alabama
- Springville, Alabama
- Tarrant, Alabama
- Warrior, Alabama
- Forestdale, Alabama