In recent years, Portland, Oregon, has experienced significant population growth due to many factors, like its stunning scenery and magnetic cultural atmosphere. Local governance has also made many thoughtful environmental efforts that, paired with a beautiful and vibrant atmosphere, bring in people of all ages and backgrounds. Additionally, the city boasts outstanding public transportation.
In this guide, you’ll learn what it’s like to live in one of our 27 in-network independent living communities in Portland. We go over the costs of living and how people pay. You’ll also learn about local benefits for veterans and public assistance to help cover the cost of senior living. The regulations section of this guide outlines standards for independent living on the Oregon and Washington sides of Portland. Listings of communities were pulled from a 10-mile radius from downtown Portland, which includes parts of Vancouver, Washington. Learn all about Portland independent living below.
The staff is great..they are just a little short handed as are most facilities today...the food could be better...and more activities...the setting is nice..backed up to a forest with good outdoor spaces. I...
Best small assisted living. My mother is blind and now so many people know her in the community. She has found comfort when she needed it. At 94 she can recognize people by their voices and can get around on...
There are a lot of activity options, the residents all seem happy, and staff is friendly. Based on the experience we have had, we would recommend Russellville Park to other families who may need a place for...
Well, The Canyons is really just an apartment building with community activities, more than a senior facility. That's great if, like me, that's what you need. The senior residents love that there are people...
I would give them all a 4 because it's not home and that would be a 5. The only one I would down grade would be food. at would be a three because she is diabetic and needs mechanical soft food because of...
The people there from the top down are truly amazing. Mom has moved to memory care and boyfriend is in asstd living. They still hang out daily and everybody knows everybody. Anything we have ever asked has...
My sister lives there and seems to like it well enough. The facility is kept up in good condition, and the staff is friendly and helpful. She sometimes says the food is so so but then I take it with a...
MorningStar is a beautiful facility with a capable and responsive staff. The memory care (called the "Reflections Community") rooms are extremely nice compared to those I saw in other facilities. Everything...
I would tell them that my experience has been quite good and I would recommend it to them.
I have a nice one bedroom apartment ground floor not too far from the office. All the rooms here are being remodeled, new floors, new bathrooms, facilities, and new kitchen facilities. The only downside is...
Better Living Residential Care was really good about communicating the needs of my loved one to me. They had a Thanksgiving dinner for the entire community there and the residents were able to invite their...
My mom has been living at The Lofts by Cogir for three years and is really thriving there! There are many activities, events and outings that keep tenants socializing and interested in day to day fun. I just...
An open , friendly environment. Lots of art focused activities. Transportation to appointments good and flexible. Cottages are popular. Cottages are large and roomy. Apartments vary. Our 2bedroom is nice...
I was helping a friend and he moved into Truewood. He is still there and happy. It is a very nice facility with updated apartments and lots of activities. Welcoming, friendly and where I would live if I...
Frankly, we rate all of these categories at 5. Our experiences with Canfield Place have been great. The staff are friendly, helpful, and caring. They pay attention to the residents, even when they are not...
We had a few issues at the beginning moving her in. Medication was not transfered in a timely manner but i think it was her former residence fault. House keeping was an issie at the begining but improved as...
My grandparents moved into Van Mall when they could no longer take care of their home. We found Van Mall to have amazing and loving staff, fantastic food and lots of Activites. My grandparents couldn’t be...
My mom has lived in the assited living for two years and has recently moved to the memory care. We find the staff is always kind and friendly to the residents and their families
The staff are amazing. They take the time to form relationships with the residents and have gone above and beyond several times for my Dad. I have a lot of confidence that he is being well taken care of and...
What I like most about Creekside Village is the walking path. It's so peaceful and large! We would recommend this community to other families who may need a place for their loved ones
From my initial walk through to current day we all couldn't be more pleased. With the walk through I instantly felt a feeling of home as well as compassion. Everyone from staff to residents has displayed a...
What we like the most about Cogir at The Quarry is the friendliness and attentiveness from the staff. Yes, we would recommend this community to other families, but they need to improve on card games and...
The best experience is getting Jon urgently admitted due to a family emergency. Much appreciated. It's an economical choice and I liked the smaller facility environment. Location is very convenient.
Mixed experience but better condition now, could be cleaner but housekeepers are excellent . Friendliness of staff good. New GM very good [name removed] . I don't have a caregiver but the ones who work here...
[name removed] and the rest of the staff were responsive, supportive, and extremely flexible. Our move in was chaotic for several reasons, and we were able to work with them on every issue we had. Our mom...
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Portland community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
On average, independent living communities in our Portland partner network cost around $3,982 each month.[01] Note that this number includes associated fees and service add-ons that real residents paid in the past twelve months. Additional fees you might encounter in independent living communities may include one-time admission fees, such as community fees. These one-time community fees averaged $2,500 in 2022-2023.
Communities may also have additional monthly fees for add-on services like the following:
Note that some seniors report flexible pricing in reviews among Portland communities.
Overall, costs of living in Portland are 24% higher than the national average. While Oregon doesn’t have sales tax and Washington doesn’t tax pension incomes, housing in Portland is 62% higher than the national average.[02]
The U.S. Census Bureau indicates that of the retirees aged 60+ in the Portland metropolitan area:
Given that, it helps to go into independent living knowing how your state taxes this income. One benefit for seniors on both sides of the state line is that neither Oregon nor Washington tax Social Security benefits. Many seniors choose to live in the Portland suburb of Vancouver, Washington, which has more independent living facilities, better tax benefits for retirees, and an overall cost of living at only 4% higher than the national average. In fact, Vancouver housing is 2% lower than the national average housing cost.[04]
Here are some differences between senior taxation in Oregon and Washington:
The following numbers indicate average baseline costs in the surrounding Portland independent living communities. Please note that add-on expenses aren’t included in the numbers below. The figures are meant to help you compare local area costs.
Most seniors pay for independent living through a variety of public and private funding sources, the same way they might pay for monthly rent or mortgages. This section includes private pay tips and information on veterans benefits to help pay for independent living. We also include tips on navigating the Oregon and Washington Medicaid and Medicare programs to help pay for senior health care services.
Private payment methods Portland seniors often use to cover their independent living costs include income like savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment returns. Depending on your resources, the following options may also be available:
A VA pension and other VA benefits can provide monthly income to eligible senior veterans or their surviving spouses. This income can be used toward the costs of independent living and in-home care.
The veterans Aid and Attendance benefit is a generous pension addition you might also be eligible for as a disabled veteran or surviving spouse. This benefit can be used toward anything that improves a veteran’s quality of life, like living in an independent living community.
Applying for veterans benefits can be a long and difficult process. Without advocacy, your claim may be denied. Because of this, many local Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) have veteran service officers available to help you get the benefits you’re entitled to and even appeal denied claims. Because of COVID-19, offices may or may not have walk-in services available. Many offer phone appointments instead.
Nonprofit organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion have service officers available to advocate for veterans filing claims. Other local organizations, such as the National Association for Black Veterans and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) also offer veteran service officers to help Black or disabled veterans access their benefits in Portland.
Residents also have access to numerous veterans helplines for quick, helpful information right over the phone. Below, you’ll find a number of resources to connect you to Portland VSOs, veterans services by county, benefits guides, and more.
Number of veterans who live in Portland
Percentage of Portland veterans who are 55+
Resources for Portland, Oregon, veterans
Multnomah County Veterans Services
Phone: 503-988-8387
Clackamas County
Phone: 503-650-5631
Clark County
Phone: 360-693-7030
Washington County
Phone: 503-846-3060
Portland Regional Office
1505 NE 122nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97230
Phone: 503-688-5361
Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 503-412-4777
TriState Paralyzed Veterans of America
Phone: 503-412-4762
Find a service office
American Legion
Phone: 503-412-4706
Find a post
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Phone: 503-412-4750
Find your local office
National Association for Black Veterans
Phone: 503-412-4159
Oregon chapter
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
Phone: 503-412-4757
Find a post
Aging, Disability, and Veteran Services helpline
Phone: 503-988-3646
Transition Projects’ veterans hotline
Phone: 855-425-5544
Veterans crisis line
Phone: 800-273-8255
In Oregon, Medicaid — a state- and federally-funded health insurance program — is offered through the Oregon Health Plan. Meanwhile, seniors on the Washington side receive their Medicaid benefits through Apple Health. While Medicaid doesn’t cover the cost of room and board in independent living communities, both Medicaid programs can help cover in-home health care services if they’re medically necessary for you. Eligibility varies depending on which side of the state line you’re on, but typically requires seniors meet these types of qualifications:
Through OHP, you may be eligible for the following services:[08]
Navigating Medicaid eligibility and enrollment can be a bit confusing. Oregon has Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) that work with OHP as an all-in-one resource for patients. They can help you with your health care questions, appointments, and navigation through the health care systems in Oregon. To help secure your Medicaid benefits or access advocacy, an OHP ombudsman is available for Oregon residents.
Oregon also has the following fantastic services to help guide Portland seniors through the process:
Portland seniors on the Washington side may be eligible for the Community Protection Waiver, if they meet criteria including but not limited to the following:
This waiver helps Washington residents stay in their home of choice instead of an institutional setting. This helps in the event of needing assistance such as the following:
Oregon residents over 65 or with a disability may also have access to HCBS waivers. These are distributed through the Oregon Department of Human Services. For more information, contact the department by email.
Seniors on the Washington side of the Portland suburbs receive Medicaid benefits through Apple Health. If you’re in the Vancouver area, you may be eligible for these Apple Health services:[09]
For questions about Apple Health and related waivers, here are some additional ways to get answers:
Portland resident Medicaid resources
Oregon OHP Ombudsman Program
500 Summer St. NE, E20
Salem, OR 97301
Phone message line: 877-642-0450
Email: oha.ombudsoffice@odhsoha.oregon.gov
Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC)
Phone: 503-988-3646
Email: adrc@multco.us
Clark County Area Agency on Aging for Washington residents
201 NE 73rd St., Suite 201
Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360-735-5720
Medicare is the designated federal health insurance program for seniors over age 65. Medicare doesn’t cover costs of independent living, but may cover medically necessary health care services.
Medicare plans include the following parts:
Seniors with AIDS or HIV may be eligible for additional pharmaceutical assistance through either Oregon’s CareAssist program or Washington’s Early Intervention program. Medicare Savings Programs are available to Oregon seniors with Medicare Part A whose income falls within a certain limit. These programs may cover some of a senior’s Medicare premium.
Oregon has three Medicare programs. You can apply for Medicare savings programs online and see which best fits your needs.[10] Oregon and Washington both offer PACE services, which stands for Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. PACE is a Medicare program with a Medicaid service option. It’s designed to bridge some of the gaps in Medicare Parts A-D. You can explore further details on the state websites in the resources below.
PACE coverage might cover the following health care costs:
To apply for Medicare online, visit the Social Security Administration application website. Contact Portland’s Social Security Administration office or connect with the long-term care ombudsman for your county for assistance with Medicare benefits and Medicare Savings Programs. In addition to Medicare benefits, the local ombudsman can help residents know their rights and serve as a source of further advocacy for seniors.
In Oregon, seniors also have access to Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (also known as SHIBA). Washington residents have access to a similar program called the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (also SHIBA), which serves residents in the same capacity as Oregon’s version. In both states, SHIBA is a network of volunteers, trained and dedicated to educate and advocate for Oregonians and Washingtonians who have or need Medicare.
Portland resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
Portland Social Security Office
1538 SW Yamhill St.
Portland, OR 97205
Phone: 888-632-6990
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Of the 27 independent living communities in the Portland metro, nine offer assisted living in addition to independent living. Seven offer assisted living and memory care in addition to independent living and 11 offer independent living only.
If an independent living community offers assisted living and/or memory care, they may be subject to regulations for assisted living facilities. Such communities are licensed and regulated by either Oregon’s Community-Based Care team or Washington’s Residential Care Services team, depending on where in the metropolitan area that community is located. Note that the extra regulations may only apply to a facility’s assisted living or memory care wings. If a community offers independent living only, they may only have the local standard apartment regulations.
If an independent living community offers assisted living and memory care services, Community-Based Care and/or Residential Care Services regulate the care that independent living facilities are providing in assisted living or memory care wings. This is to ensure that independent living residents are legally protected from potential mistreatment or neglect.
These rules state that higher-care wings are required to comply with regulations, including but not limited to the following:[11]
Additionally, residents in independent living have the following rights, according to these same regulations:
In independent living communities without assisted living, more general regulations might apply, like the following:
Under these regulations, there are also certain rules that tenants have to follow. These include things like keeping your home sanitary and not disturbing the neighbors.
Under Oregon and Washington law, tenants’ rights protect them against potentially unsafe or unfair conditions. This means that units should meet the following standards, to name a few:
These rights are enforced in Portland by Building and Development Services (BDS); concerns of violations or complaints can be directed to their email address or helpline.
For seniors with disabilities, ADA requirements might include the following:
These rights are protected by the Fair Housing Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504.
BDS Property Compliance
Phone: 503-823-2633
Email: codec@portlandoregon.gov
Oregon Department of Health contact information
North Mall Office Building
725 Summer St. NE, Suite B
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503-986-2000
Email: hcs_housing.info@hcs.oregon.gov
Washington Department of Health contact information
Find an office near you
Phone: 360-236-4501
In Oregon, long-term care facilities, such as independent living communities, are now required to develop COVID-19 vaccine maintenance programs following completion of statewide vaccine clinics. Additionally, indoor visitation is allowed with some limitations, so long as visitors adhere to the COVID-19 prevention protocols below.[15] Be sure to contact your prospective facility to determine if visitation is allowed.
In Washington, residents or visitors may be required to report suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19.[16] You can find the list of notifiable conditions at the Washington Department of Health website.
Vaccinations. Long-term care facilities must develop a vaccine maintenance program to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Masking. Residents and visitors alike must wear masks when a resident is receiving company from outside of the independent living community.
Social distancing. Residents and visitors must maintain 6 feet of distance during external visitation.
Quarantining. Indoor visitation may be limited if a resident is in quarantine, regardless of vaccination status.
Reporting. In Washington, you must report suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 to your local health jurisdiction and to the Residential Care Services Complaint Resolution Unit (CRU).
The Portland metropolitan area is buzzing with life, charm, and endless things to do in the city’s lovely, rainforest locale. A common theme throughout our partner network of independent living facilities is the effort to create a tranquil, homelike place to land amid everything there is to do and enjoy in the city.
While some independent living facilities aim for a bright and airy indoor environment, others lean more toward coziness and warmth. Common spaces feature elements of the surrounding area, such as rustic wood detailing and botanic greenery. From outdoor gardens and walking paths to indoor residences and common areas, there’s an eye for the small details that make a house feel like a home.
Independent living facilities in the area may create robust activity schedules, with plenty of things for residents to do. Throughout our partner communities in the Portland metro, there’s an undeniable sense of personalization in these efforts. Residents are offered innovative, interest-centered programming and wellness programs. Programs are designed to help seniors explore new or long-enjoyed hobbies, skills, and entertainment.
Of our partner Portland-metro independent living facilities, these were the most common offerings:
Residents in Portland independent living communities love the standard amenities that come in their personal lodgings. Many love the full kitchens present in 70% of independent living communities. Among our partnering facilities, 85% also feature air conditioning in addition to heating elements, readying any abode for cold snaps or heat waves.
For those needing additional accessibility measures, most facilities have accessible showers and ground floor units for easy navigation. Of course, independent living communities are required to make needed modifications according to ADA guidelines. However, in 85% of Portland communities, they’ve anticipated the need and delivered accessible accommodations in advance.
The independent living lifestyle in Portland offers a higher quality of life with lower maintenance and hassle. As such, you’ll find thoughtful details in everything from the care offered to the meal planning and the services available to residents.
For on-site care, most facilities employ 24-hour staff that are available in case of emergencies. Everything from massage therapy to on-site nursing is offered in some facilities, though these care types vary greatly, and it’s always a good idea to check with prospective communities to see if they offer the specific services you’re seeking.
Facility menus prioritize healthy, seasonal favorites for residents, based on local availability and time-tested resident favorites. Of the food options available, these options were most common:
For those who prefer to stay in or cook from the comfort of their own apartments, 78% offer room service and 63% of facilities provide grocery shopping and errands services.
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Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Portland
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Portland population
Mean annual earnings for Portland seniors 60 and older
In Portland, seniors benefit from a wealth of excellent health care options. You’ll find some of the top rated hospital systems in the Portland metro area below.
Nationally ranked in six specialties, OHSU hospital is ranked No. 1 in Portland. The hospital is especially high performing in senior health procedures, such as heart conditions, orthopedics, and pulmonology.
Ranked second in Portland, Providence St. Vincent Medical Center earns high ranks in neurology and cancer procedures.
Third in Portland, Kaiser Permanente ranks highly in gastroenterology procedures and diabetes care.
In Portland, 92% of independent living facilities offer complimentary transportation options, while 48% offer transportation at cost. Meanwhile, 81% of independent living communities are strategically located near Portland’s plentiful public transportation options, which include the following:[01]
Portland has an excellent reputation for thoughtful, effective transportation solutions along with a walk-friendly and bike-friendly infrastructure. The scores below are ranked from zero to 100, portraying Portland as one of the West Coast’s most accessible cities.
No fewer than 89% of Portland independent living facilities employ an activity director, so dull moments should be hard to come by for independent living residents. Even so, sometimes it’s just nice to get out and about on your own terms. With the metro’s neighboring national parks and its endless offerings for city adventures on a rainy day, there’s always something to do in Portland.
Local neighborhoods, such as the Pearl District or Hawthorne Boulevard, take shoppers from quaint boutiques to excellent food and beyond. Nationally recognized for its famous offerings, Portland’s open-air arts and crafts market celebrates small businesses at the Portland Saturday Market each weekend. Reading enthusiasts are sure to love Powell’s, a nationally-recognized bookstore celebrated for its fabulous collection of new, used, and rare books.
Portland offers residents many fabulous senior centers by location and common interest. Multnomah County offers a comprehensive list of district senior centers, which provide services such as the following:
Additionally, on the Washington side of Portland’s suburbs, you can find some fantastic 50+ recreational activities through Vancouver’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services website. Marshall and Luepke Community Center in Vancouver also features a computer lab and lending library, in addition to dancing and community presentations for seniors.
Portland undeniably has plenty of attractions to delight all ages. For wildlife adventurers, try the nearby Oregon Zoo. Featuring numerous exhibits from all around the world, this is a great place to take visiting family and grandkids. Additionally, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is another excellent weekend retreat. Featuring regular events and shows to spark curiosity, the museum aims to educate the public on the scientific wonders this world has to offer.
Portland is situated among a wealth of stunning national parks and ecological wonders. Portland residents of all ages often spend their weekends traversing the neighboring national parks, which include the following:
Closer to home, you can spend a tranquil afternoon in the Portland Japanese Garden. The floral and artistic explorations therein offer a serene getaway for when you’re craving a moment of peace and beauty.
The Lofts by Cogir, Vancouver Pointe and Truewood by Merrill, Vancouver are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Portland, OR. 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 Portland is $4,130 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 Portland is $4,130 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Portland, Oregon.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population 60 years and over in the United States: Portland city, Oregon (S0102). [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Vancouver, Washington.
SmartAsset. (2023). Oregon Retirement Tax Friendliness.
SmartAsset. (2023). Washington Retirement Tax Friendliness.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population estimates: Portland city, Oregon (V2021). [Data set]. QuickFacts.
Oregon Health Authority. (2023). Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Benefits.
Washington State Health Care Authority. (2023). What are my basic covered services?
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). Medicare Savings Programs.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. (2015). Compendium of Residential Care and Assisted Living Regulations and Policy.
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2022). Residential Care and Assisted Living Facilities.
Oregon State Bar. (2023). Rights and Duties of Landlords.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2023). Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications.
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). COVID-19 Information for Long-Term Care Facilities.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services: Aging and Long-Term Support Administration. (2023). COVID-19 Information for Providers and Long-Term Care Professionals.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population 65 years and over in the United States: Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA Metro Area. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Oregon.
WalkScore. (2023). Portland.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Portland, Oregon.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population 60 years and over in the United States: Portland city, Oregon (S0102). [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Vancouver, Washington.
SmartAsset. (2023). Oregon Retirement Tax Friendliness.
SmartAsset. (2023). Washington Retirement Tax Friendliness.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population estimates: Portland city, Oregon (V2021). [Data set]. QuickFacts.
Oregon Health Authority. (2023). Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Benefits.
Washington State Health Care Authority. (2023). What are my basic covered services?
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). Medicare Savings Programs.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. (2015). Compendium of Residential Care and Assisted Living Regulations and Policy.
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2022). Residential Care and Assisted Living Facilities.
Oregon State Bar. (2023). Rights and Duties of Landlords.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2023). Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications.
Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). COVID-19 Information for Long-Term Care Facilities.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services: Aging and Long-Term Support Administration. (2023). COVID-19 Information for Providers and Long-Term Care Professionals.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Population 65 years and over in the United States: Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA Metro Area. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Oregon.
WalkScore. (2023). Portland.