Assisted living is ideal for seniors who no longer feel safe living on their own. In an assisted living community, they can receive 24-hour support as well as help with personal care, medication, housekeeping and meals. Seniors in Chattanooga pay an average of $3,899 per month for assisted living, although costs can vary based on the level of care required. This rate is lower than both the national and Tennessee averages.
AssistedLiving.org spent dozens of hours researching the top assisted living communities in the Chattanooga area to allow seniors and their families to find the community that’s right for them. Click through the facilities listed below to read in-depth reviews, what residents are saying, and details such as base pricing, room types, and more.
Regency House Assisted Living helps seniors preserve their independence and dignity through personalized daily support. The pet-friendly…
4.06
Average of 33 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
Dalton Place
1300 W. Waugh St.,
Dalton, GA 30720
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Dalton Place is a luxurious assisted living community located in the mountains of Georgia about 30 minutes…
4.38
Average of 75 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
Royal Oaks
1218 Broadrick Dr.,
Dalton, GA 30720
Assisted Living
Independent Living
Royal Oaks is a senior living community that encourages socializing and a maintenance-free lifestyle. Caregivers are available…
4.97
Average of 49 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
Morningside of Dalton
2470 Dug Gap Rd.,
Dalton, GA 30720
Assisted Living
Respite
Morningside of Dalton is an assisted living community located directly off I-75 on the eastern edge of…
4.81
Average of 66 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
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In order to find the top assisted living communities in the Chattanooga area, our team of researchers sorted through 59 communities using our unique methodology. Our team:
Spent over 25 hours researching assisted living communities in Chattanooga
Interviewed 12 facility staff members
Read more than 130 reviews left by residents and their family members
After filtering out facilities that didn’t meet our high standards, we were left with 22 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 Chattanooga is $3,225, which is considerably lower than the state average of $3,900 and the national average of $4,051.
Jonathan Frank
Licensed Social Worker and Certified Dementia Practitioner
Jonathan Frank
Licensed Social Worker and Certified Dementia Practitioner
Jonathan Frank is a Licensed Social Worker with over 10 years experience working with the geriatric population in a variety of different settings. He received his Masters degree from Rutgers University with a certificate in Aging and Gerontological Services. Additionally, he is a Certified Dementia Practitioner accredited by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Jonathan also has Bachelors degree in psychology and worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for 14 years. His passion lies with the elderly and ensuring they age with dignity.
Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Chattanooga, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 59 communities in the Chattanooga area.
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Chattanooga, TN
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 Chattanooga and 32 additional cities within Tennessee.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Assisted Living in Chattanooga, TN
Inflation is causing an increase in assisted living costs in Chattanooga. From 2022 to 2023, prices rose by about 10%. This rate jump reflects what is happening nationwide, with the U.S. average climbing about the same percentage. The Tennessee average is up even more by 24% and is predicted to rise again in 2024, as are Chattanooga’s costs.
Other Tennessee cities, including Nashville, Knoxville and Murfreesboro, have also seen an increase of 10% or so in assisted living costs, and their rates are projected to increase more in 2024. This means that seniors must plan and budget carefully.
Location
2022 Cost (Historical)
2023 Cost (Current)
2024 Cost (Estimated)
Chattanooga
$3,559
$3,899
$4.199
U.S. Average
$4,070
$4,459
$4,802
Tennessee
$3,383
$4,201
$4,543
Nashville
$4,495
$4,925
$5,304
Knoxville
$3,937
$4,313
$4,645
Murfreesboro
$3,738
$4,095
$4,410
Assisted Living vs. Other Types of Care in Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga’s seniors have several living options to consider. Independent living is the least expensive at an average of $3,690 per month, but it lacks personal care services. Assisted living offers more support, and seniors can usually design their own care packages. It runs about $3,899 per month. Memory care is more expensive at $4,652 because it provides more comprehensive assistance and wellness services for people experiencing memory loss.
Care Type
Cost
Assisted Living
$3,899
Memory Care
$4,652
Independent Living
$3,690
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Chattanooga, TN
Other Ways to Pay for Assisted Living in Chattanooga, TN
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
Veterans Benefits
Life Insurance Policy
Long-Term Care Insurance
Reverse Mortgage
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Tennessee.
Free and Low-Cost Assisted Living Resources for Seniors in Chattanooga, TN
Numerous resources are available in Chattanooga, TN 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 Tennessee state page on assistedliving.org.
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Chattanooga 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.
The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability oversees the allocation of state funds for home- and community-based programs designed to support individuals aged 60 and above. These programs are managed by nine area agencies, which serve all 95 counties in the state. The primary objective of these programs is to enhance the overall quality of life and promote independence among older Tennesseans. Services provided include assistance with daily living activities such as household chores, shopping, transportation, dressing, and home healthcare. Additionally, the program offers support in the form of meal preparation, home-delivered meals, home accessibility modifications, and home maintenance services.
Food Assistance Programs
In Chattanooga, 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.
The Chattanooga Area Food Bank acts as a vital resource for seniors in need throughout Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. By collaborating with local retailers, farmers, and agencies, the food bank gathers and distributes food to individuals who are experiencing food insecurity. Alongside its primary services, the food bank also provides mobile delivery services, emergency food boxes, and a Senior Grocery Program. This program ensures that older adults receive monthly supplies of nutritious meals that are specifically tailored to meet their dietary requirements.
Foxwood Food Center, operated by the Chattanooga Food Bank, serves as a vital resource for low-income seniors residing in the heart of the city. This center is dedicated to providing regular access to a wide range of essential food items, including fresh produce, dairy, meats, and shelf-stable products. To ensure fair distribution, seniors in need are required to present vouchers when visiting the center. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
The Agency on Aging offers a nutrition program for Chattanooga seniors. Those who can leave home can enjoy hot meals and socialize at congregate meal sites. Homebound seniors receive meals and a friendly visit from volunteers, ensuring their safety. All meals meet one-third of seniors’ daily nutritional needs. Eligibility requirements apply, and there is no cost for the meals.
Legal Resources
In Chattanooga, 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.
Legal Aid of East Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that provides valuable assistance to families facing various challenges associated with dementia. Our team consists of licensed and experienced legal professionals who are dedicated to helping families navigate through issues such as consumer debt problems, denied health insurance claims, and asset management. Additionally, we offer support in addressing concerns related to memory care facilities, including billing errors and problems with intake and discharge procedures. With our expertise and commitment, we strive to provide the necessary guidance and advocacy to ensure the well-being of families affected by dementia.
Senior Centers
In Chattanooga, 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.
The Eastgate Senior Activity Center offers a secure and welcoming environment for senior citizens to come together and enjoy a variety of engaging activities. From board games and fitness classes to billiards, arts and crafts, a computer lab, book clubs, and dancing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the center organizes regular outings into the community and provides meals and special events to enhance the overall experience.
Social Security Offices
In Chattanooga, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.
Social Security serves as a financial resource for individuals who have reached retirement age or are unable to work due to a disability. The funding for Social Security is derived from a payroll tax imposed on employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, beneficiaries are entitled to receive monthly payments based on their previous earnings.
Transportation Assistance
For seniors in Chattanooga struggling with private transportation, help is at hand. Community services are available to aid the elderly and disabled in their local travels, facilitating errands and appointments within the city.
CARTA offers convenient and accessible transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Our curb-to-curb rides are specifically designed to cater to your needs, whether it’s for medical appointments, outings, shopping, or running errands. Please note that all rides must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient service. Additionally, all our buses are equipped with wheelchair accessibility to accommodate everyone.
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in {catalog.city} 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.
LIHEAP, a program funded by the Department of Health and Human Services, aims to provide assistance to senior and disabled residents in covering their utility bills. Eligible individuals can receive up to $325 for cooling expenses during the summer and $250 for heating costs during the winter.
Veteran’s Services
Veteran services in Chattanooga offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.
The Chattanooga Vet Center in Chattanooga operates on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and remains closed on weekends. At this Tennessee location, individuals, couples, and families can avail themselves of counseling services, including grief, bereavement, and transition support. The center also offers care for PTSD, mental health, and military sexual trauma. Additionally, they provide referral services for suicide prevention, addiction and substance use, and veteran connections. Convenient parking is available.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Chattanooga, TN
Assisted Living Communities in Chattanooga 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.
Our Methodology
It’s not what we research, but the way we research that makes AssistedLiving.org stand out. We start by identifying problems and challenges in the senior care industry by gaining insight from conversations with industry professionals, older adults, and those that care for them. Next, our research team led by industry experts apply our data-driven research techniques to understand the magnitude of the challenge and how to overcome it. Finally, we present our findings in easy-to-understand guides and studies and share our actionable results with influencers and caregivers, as well as the general public.
Facility Features (40%)
Facility Health Services Graded on health services provided on the facility including, but not limited to, on-site nursing, pharmacy, skilled nursing, medicine administration, etc
Facility Amenities Graded on the available amenities.
Affordability Financial assistance acceptance and overall costs and value.
Residential Quality (40%)
Resident Satisfaction Polling & survey of overall facility satisfaction.
Facility Complaint and Violations Number of complaints and violations the facility had. Taking into account improvement over time.
Location-Based Benefits Including, but not limited to, proximity to hospitals, ambulance response times, senior resources available, and state and city financial assistance.
Location Quality Local crime rates, incidents against older adults, air quality, climate.
