In order to find the top assisted living communities in the Pensacola area, our team of researchers sorted through 77 communities using our unique methodology. Our team:
- Spent over 28 hours researching assisted living communities in Pensacola
- Interviewed 14 facility staff members
- Read more than 165 reviews left by residents and their family members
After filtering out facilities that didn’t meet our high standards, we were left with 20 assisted living communities that earned our seal of approval. Through this process we discovered that the average cost of assisted living in the city of Pensacola is $3,655, which is slightly higher than the state average of $3,500 and lower than the national average of $4,051.
Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Pensacola, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 77 communities in the Pensacola area.
Determining how to finance assisted living often starts with the question, “What’s the cost?” In today’s economy, where inflation plays a significant role, having current data is crucial for senior living financial planning. AssistedLiving.org has gathered cost information from its expansive network of over 75,000 senior living providers. This data offers a glimpse into the average expenses for assisted living in Pensacola and 128 additional cities within Florida.
Although assisted living prices normally rise year after year, consumers have been experiencing larger increases due to inflation. In Pensacola, average rates increased by $300 between 2022 and 2023, and another $265 hike is expected for 2024. This is consistent with state and national trends, which are pushing rates up by 18-19%. In Destin and Gulf Shores, consumers can expect to pay about $600 more than they did in 2022. Rates in Milton are up $706. Due to rising costs, families may need to take extra steps to budget for long-term care.
| Location |
2022 Cost (Historical) |
2023 Cost (Current) |
2024 Cost (Estimated) |
| Pensacola |
$3,148 |
$3,449 |
$3,714 |
| U.S. Average |
$4,070 |
$4,459 |
$4,802 |
| Florida |
$3,727 |
$4,067 |
$4,438 |
| Destin |
$3,282 |
$3,596 |
$3,873 |
| Milton |
$3,925 |
$4,300 |
$4,631 |
| Gulf Shores, AL |
$3,435 |
$3,763 |
$4,052 |
Assisted living is just one type of care to consider depending on seniors’ needs, budget and personal preferences. This option provides comprehensive care for a moderate price of $3,449, although many factors, including amenities, can affect local rates. Independent living apartments cost about $820 less per month since personal care isn’t included. Memory care units in Pensacola charge just over $4,600 per month due to the high level of staffing and support that’s provided.
| Care Type |
Cost |
| Assisted Living |
$3,449 |
| Memory Care |
$4,608 |
| Independent Living |
$2,629 |
Numerous resources are available in Pensacola, Florida to support seniors during their retirement. AssistedLiving;org has gathered data on local groups, initiatives, and agencies, and organized them according to care categories for convenient access.
For details about resources across the state and in neighboring cities, please visit the Florida state page on assistedliving.org.
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Pensacola Area Agency on Aging is a valuable resource for retirees, offering guidance on financial aid, in-home care, and long-term care planning. They also link seniors and caregivers to community resources.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Northwest Florida Area Agency On Aging, Inc. |
866-531-8011 |
Florida residents aged 60 and above can benefit from essential care, support, and educational programs offered by the state’s Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies, conveniently located throughout the region, provide a range of home- and community-based services. Services include Meals on Wheels, fitness and wellness programs, as well as assistance with personal care and homemaking tasks. The primary goal of all Florida AAAs is to empower older individuals to maintain their independence for as long as possible. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care
Financial aid is available for seniors in Pensacola who prefer to age in place. Various local entities provide support for expenses like home care, home adjustments, and utility bills.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Senior Companion Program – Pensacola |
850-432-1475 |
The Senior Volunteer Program by the Council on Aging of West Florida offers seniors aged 55 and older the chance to stay involved in their community. Through the Senior Companion Program, older adults can connect with and support fellow seniors with daily tasks like shopping and light housekeeping. The Foster Grandparent Program allows seniors to provide tutoring and help children build skills and self-assurance. Both programs are open to seniors with limited incomes. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Seniors in Pensacola, whether residing independently or in a senior living facility, have access to various local financial aid options. These entities assist in offsetting certain in-home or long-term care expenses and link them to beneficial community resources.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| 2-1-1 Northwest Florida |
855-420-8689 |
2-1-1 Northwest Florida offers a toll-free helpline for residents in the Gulf Breeze area. Our knowledgeable specialists are available round the clock to provide information and referrals to community resources. From affordable medical care and health screenings to durable medical equipment loans and transportation options, we’re here to assist you. This service is completely free and accessible to everyone. |
Food Assistance Programs
In Pensacola, various local initiatives are dedicated to promoting senior health through balanced nutrition. They offer services like meal delivery, communal dining, and food banks, ensuring elderly residents have access to affordable, nutritious food.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Manna Food Bank – Main Pantry |
850-432-2053 |
Manna Food Bank is a community-driven initiative dedicated to combating hunger in Santa Rosa and Escambia counties. Through the generosity of local businesses, faith-based organizations, corporations, and foundations, we provide free groceries to families, individuals, and seniors in need. Our dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. Join us in making a difference today. |
| Samaritan Hands Food Pantry |
850-433-5631 |
The Samaritan Hands Food Pantry, run by the First Baptist Church of Pensacola, provides food assistance to eligible seniors and others in the Pensacola, FL, area and surrounding communities. The pantry aims to support the underprivileged and homeless by distributing food and necessities, as well as referring individuals to other resources for further assistance. Operating from Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. |
| Brent ACCESS Storefront |
800-963-5337 |
The Levine Senior Center in Matthews is a certified community destination for individuals aged 50 and above. Open on weekdays, it offers a range of activities including oil and acrylic painting, water aerobics, and healthy living workshops. With amenities such as a pool, fitness center, and banquet room available for rentals, it provides opportunities for socializing, exercise, and entertainment. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Pensacola, numerous groups are addressing the steep expense of new medical equipment. They gather gently used items like wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, providing them to local seniors and individuals in need.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| We Share Medical Equipment Program |
850-438-3930 |
The We Share Medical Equipment Program offers free loan of essential medical equipment to individuals in need. Seniors can access items like walkers, wheelchairs, canes, bath benches, bedside commodes, raised toilet seats, shower chairs, and adult diapers. To receive this service, seniors can visit any Goodwill store in the Gulf Coast or contact their local community center. |
Home Repair and Modifications
In Pensacola, numerous programs are available to aid seniors and individuals with disabilities in financing home modifications and repairs. These programs, offering grants or loans, have diverse eligibility requirements specifically designed for retirees.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Weatherization Assistance Program – Pensacola |
850-679-4817 |
The program helps homeowners improve energy efficiency in their homes, resulting in lower energy costs and increased comfort. Assistance includes attic insulation, solar screen installation, and replacing inefficient HVAC units. |
Legal Resources
In Pensacola, numerous agencies provide affordable or complimentary legal assistance to the elderly. They offer counsel on matters like estate management, living wills, and power of attorney. Some even serve as advocates for seniors’ rights in long-term care facilities.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Elder Law – Pensacola |
850-432-8222 |
LSNF provides legal aid to vulnerable and low-income individuals in 16 Florida counties. Elderly individuals aged 60 and above can access representation for elder law matters, such as abuse and neglect cases. Eligibility is based on income, assets, and case-specific details. |
Senior Centers
In Pensacola, senior centers serve as a hub for older adults, providing recreational activities, events, and valuable resources. These centers also offer wellness programs, nutritional guidance, and assistance with senior-related concerns.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Bayview Senior Resource Center |
850-436-5190 |
The center provides a welcoming environment for seniors to engage with their community. It offers various amenities such as a billiards room, library, and kitchen. Activities like exercise classes, art projects, educational seminars, and dance events are available. Local residents aged 50 and above can access the facility and participate in its programming without any charges. |
| Council on Aging of West Florida, Inc. |
850-432-1475 |
The Council on Aging of West Florida is a nonprofit organization that offers community-based and in-home services for seniors. These services include Meals on Wheels, free access to medical equipment/supplies, and senior companionship. The organization also provides adult day care, offering respite to family caregivers and opportunities for socialization in a safe environment. Some services may require payment, but financial assistance options are available. |
Sliding Scale & Free Health Clinics
Eligible seniors with limited income in Pensacola have access to affordable, if not free, health care services. Various clinics offer treatments at reduced rates or even at no cost, providing financial relief for retirees’ medical expenses.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Senior Spirit at Ascension Sacred Heart |
850-416-1620 |
Ascension Sacred Heart’s Senior Spirit program is designed for seniors aged 55 and older. It offers complimentary health screenings, informative seminars, and access to support groups. Memberships are free and come with additional benefits such as inpatient coverage, pharmacy discounts, and more. Join Senior Spirit today to prioritize your health and well-being. |
Social Security Offices
In Pensacola, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Pensacola Social Security Office 32502 |
800-772-1213 |
Social Security provides income for retirees and individuals unable to work due to disability. Funding is derived from payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, monthly payments are determined by previous earnings. |
Tax Assistance
Numerous tax aid resources are available in Pensacola for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Property Tax Benefits – Pensacola |
850-434-2735 |
Florida residents aged 65 and above are eligible for an extra homestead exemption of up to $50,000. To qualify, the property’s just value must not exceed $250,000, and the applicant must have resided in the property as their permanent residence for at least 25 years. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in Pensacola struggling with home maintenance costs, including utility and energy bills. Emergency funding may also be accessible for those at risk of utility service termination due to unpaid bills.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Pensacola |
866-384-4502 |
The program, funded by the federal government, assists low-income residents with their energy expenses up to three times annually (subject to availability of funds). The program provider directly pays the utility company on behalf of eligible individuals. |
Veteran’s Services
Veteran services in Pensacola offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Pensacola Vet Center |
850-456-5886 |
The Pensacola Vet Center offers confidential counseling services at no cost to service members, veterans, and their families. Trained counselors provide individualized therapy sessions to help veterans cope with grief, trauma, anger, stress, and anxiety. Couples and family counseling are also available. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing are utilized. Community resources and referrals are provided as needed. |
Assisted Living Communities in Pensacola are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.
