Seniors exploring Scottsdale, Arizona, for assisted living will find an array of living options that range from luxurious to serene. The city’s motto, “The West’s Most Western Town” offers a glimpse into Scottsdale’s charm and cinematic views. Seniors will also appreciate the warm and dry climate combined with world-renowned medical care, countless leisure opportunities, and arts and culture.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the details of what it’s like to live in Scottsdale’s varied assisted living communities. This includes smaller group homes, which make up nearly 61% of our partner assisted living communities in Scottsdale. You will also find information about costs and how seniors in Scottsdale pay for assisted living. This guide also summarizes Arizona’s assisted living regulations and laws. It also provides an overview of the health care choices available to Scottsdale residents, transportation options, and exciting things to do around town.
I can’t say enough good things about the care staff at Valencia. They were the second out of six homes we toured and we chose them because of [name removed]. There was something really special about [name...
Please look at the years that the staff have been working at the facility. This shows the dedication and care that the facility not only has for its residents but the staff as well. I would absolutely...
I would give a 5 on all categories. It was an amazing experience. My dad was only there for 4 months. Just well run and everyone who worked there, cared and were so kind. They are very organized and help...
The experience with Acoya Troon has been life affirming and life enhancing for my mom and for our entire family. The decision to encourage her to move into Acoya was one of the best decisions we have ever...
My loved one was previously a resident at Legacy Village of Salt River. They were not able to accommodate my loved one's behavioral issues. They did try, but the issues continued and we ultimately had to...
Best is the staff is great and friendly, they care about the residents. Also the rooms are very good sizes. Worst is it's expensive, worth the money as far as value but still expensive.
My aunt had a problem with a few different facilities in the past so I was very skeptical. when I came to this home I immediately felt an overwhelming inviting feeling of home. The resident seemed happy and...
Our family needed to relocate my father from his own condo and find a place near me in Phoenix. The moment I walked in and met the director of sales [name removed] and nurses [names removed]. It was the...
Ive lived in two other senior living communities before this and this is by far nicest one. I only wish my wife was still alive to be here and enjoy it with me. I really love it here! I highly recommend it...
The staff is good for the most part- there are some that insist on doing things their way. (caregivers) They offer lots of activities for everyone if one wants to participate. They are in remodeling stages...
The Gardens of Scottsdale has proven to be a great choice to place our loved one. The memory care unit has an excellent staff to care the needs and even has gone beyond our expectations. Not fully knowing...
Having been a resident here for almost a year, Truewood by Merrill Scottsdale community and I are virtually a perfect fit. We have it all: terrific residents, competent and caring staff, tasty and wholesome...
We are very satisfied with our selection here at the Ranch Estates. Would recommend you to arrange several trips to confirm your observations prior to signing a lease!
They are planning on a big remodel, which to me is not necessary as things look just fine to me. They are going to put in new furniture throughout and new wall hangings throughout and new carpet. The new...
Caregivers are very nice. Food better than most places. We picked this community because it was closest to my home.
Community relations director gave me a thorough tour. During which I had the opportunity to meet several staff members and observe residents participating in activities. A very friendly and caring...
I moved my mom here after a horrible previous experience. The staff is amazing, attentive, dedicated, friendly and caring. The home and rooms are always clean and all of the meals are nutritious. ...
It seems active and good energy from the tenants. They notice if something is off with the tenants and question them. If you don't show up for a meal they go to your suite and ask if want your meal brought...
From the management to the staff to the facility, all A1! My family is very thankful that we were able to find Oakmont on Yucca. It means a lot when our hospice nurse could find nothing that needed...
I would recommend Scottsdale Village Square to others. I think that it is well groomed and that the people are very nice and kind to my mother. Could there be better communication between the caretakers and...
The entire facility is brand new one the inside. New furniture, floors and paint. The rooms are very nice and the staff is so friendly. Activities every day for varying level of mobility. Since they have...
Excellent facility with superb, well trained and caring staff. Gorgeous location overlooking the World Famous Fountain Hills fountain. Walking distance to shopping, restaurants, and desert trails. The lush...
My ex-spouse (for whom I serve as healthcare POA), has been a memory care resident with Pacifica at Paradise Valley for a year and a half. From our initial visit, through the creation of his care plan,...
My experience has been extremely positive. The minute you walk in the door you are met with friendly faces...which is the overall culture of the community. Staff is attentive, caring and kind. Administrative...
Great place and take very good care of our father. Great food and staff and outstanding price for our father that does not have a lot of money. Very clean and communicates with us very well if any issues...
The average cost of a Scottsdale assisted living community, or assisted living center as they are referred to by the state of Arizona, is $4,958 per month.[01] This type of community accommodates over 25 residents and the cost includes all amenities and fees like rent, meals, and extras associated with care services at our partner communities.
Assisted living homes, also known as group homes, cost an average of $5,230, each month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. These communities are smaller with space for up to 10 residents and are typically located in residential neighborhoods. They offer similar care services to assisted living centers but tend to trade larger amenities for a more personalized and quiet setting.
The prices below represent average starting costs without add-on fees in the surrounding area, which could help compare general pricing across the greater area.
Assisted living is usually paid for using a combination of payment types. Families often pay for costs like room and board using private funds from savings or retirement savings. However many of the care services provided at assisted living communities are covered by insurance such as Medicare or Medicaid or veterans benefits if a senior qualifies. In this section, we explore various payment options to help determine the financial approach that’s right for you or your loved one.
Private pay most commonly includes funds from personal savings accounts, returns from investment portfolios, pensions, or Social Security benefits. Many families may use the sale of a house or a reverse mortgage to pay for assisted living. Depending on your family’s resources, the following are other common ways seniors pay for assisted living:
Number of veterans who live in Scottsdale, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
About 62% of Scottsdale veterans are 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
If your loved one served in the military, they may qualify for benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA benefits can help them and their spouse cover the costs of assisted living in Scottsdale. Funds from a VA Pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit are two examples of programs that can help veterans pay for room and board or other services not covered by private insurance at an assisted living community.
The state of Arizona also offers helpful tax benefits for veterans. Military retirement payments aren’t taxed by the state, and Maricopa County also offers personal tax exemptions if veterans have a disability and were honorably discharged.
The VA offices nearest Scottsdale are the Northeast Phoenix VA Clinic and the Phoenix Vet Center. There are several VA office locations in the Scottsdale area, listed in the resources section below, that offer both medical and nonmedical support for veterans.
Determining VA benefit eligibility and completing an application can be complicated and time-consuming. Veteran benefits counselors (known as VBCs in Arizona) are trained to help veterans and their spouses navigate VA benefits. VBCs can help find benefits for veterans even when the veteran doesn’t believe they’re eligible. They can also guide veterans through the application process. Veterans are encouraged to utilize the services of VBCs because mistakes or missed deadlines can often lead to delays or a denial of benefits.
Contact details for area VBCs are listed in the resources section below.
Veteran service organizations (VSOs) are located throughout the community and include government and non-government organizations. The Maricopa County Veterans Resources Department offers several veteran-focused services and support for families. The Arizona Department of Veterans Services office also offers services and is home to several non-government VSOs such as Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
For location and contact information of specific VSOs in Scottsdale, see the resource section below.
Resources for Scottsdale veterans
Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office
3333 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (VBCs)
3839 N. Third St.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 602-535-1215
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
American Legion Sipe-Peterson Post 44
7145 E. Second St.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Phone: 480-941-0130
VFW Stanley A Crews Post 3513
7220 E. Wilshire Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Phone: 480-941-9849
DAV Department of Arizona
38 W. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85021
Phone: 602-678-0333
Email: admin@az-dav.org
Medicaid is a federal health insurance program for low-income individuals cooperatively run by the federal government and individual states. Arizona’s Medicaid program is called Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS, pronounced “access”), and seniors 65 and older can qualify if their monthly income falls below $1,255. The eligibility threshold for couples is set at $1,704 per month.[03]
The cost of assisted living can be prohibitive and while the general AHCCCS plan doesn’t cover room and board in an assisted living community, it can help seniors pay for some services and care, including the following:[04]
Arizona Long Term Care Systems (ALTCS, pronounced “ALL-tecs”) is designed to cover long-term care for seniors in a Medicaid-approved assisted living community. ALTCS also covers rent in a shared room, meals, and care services.
To qualify, Arizona residents must meet the following age, income, and care requirements:[05]
For seniors who don’t meet income requirements, setting up a Special Treatment Trust with a local benefits counselor may be one way for them to qualify for assistance through the ALTCS plan. However, depending on their income, seniors who qualify in this way may be required to pay for a share of their care costs.[05]
Individuals in Scottsdale who need help understanding Medicaid eligibility and the application process can reach out to the Phoenix AHCCCS office. The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in Phoenix can also provide guidance for seniors seeking information on Medicaid eligibility and programs. The Arizona Ombudsman Citizens’ Aide office offers unbiased support for seniors and their families. They can help solve disputes with state offices such as Medicaid.
Scottsdale resident Medicaid resources
AHCCCS
801 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: 602-417-4000
AAA Region 1, Incorporated
1366 E. Thomas Road, Suite 108
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: 602-264-2255
Email: info@aaaphx.org
Arizona Ombudsman — Citizens’ Aide
2020 N. Central Ave., Suite 570
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-277-7292
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals 65 and older. Some individuals under 65, with a qualifying disability or illness may also be eligible for Medicare. Medicare doesn’t cover room and board at assisted living facilities, but it does cover some short-term medically necessary care services including the following:[06]
Regardless of where seniors live, they can enroll in and use Medicare to help offset medical costs. There are three parts of Medicare and each addresses specific health care needs.
Part A is also known as hospital insurance and will pay for skilled nursing facility care, inpatient hospital care, and home health care.
Part B or medical insurance pays for doctor’s visits, x-rays, lab work, minor procedures, and other outpatient services performed in a clinic setting.
Part D, drug insurance, pays for prescriptions, vaccines, and the cost of other medications prescribed by a doctor.
Medicare Part C is called Medicare Advantage and is Medicare-approved health care provided by private insurance companies.
For some Arizona seniors, paying Medicare premiums, copayments, and deductibles can be a financial strain. The Help for Paying Medicare Costs Only program provides tiered assistance for seniors who meet income requirements. If a senior makes more than $1,255 per month but less than $1,695 they can receive help paying for Medicaid part B. Assistance is available for parts A and B if a senior’s monthly income is less than $1,255.[07]
Medicare enrollment is usually automatic for seniors who are already receiving Social Security benefits. The Medicare application can be found on the Social Security website for seniors who need to complete the application. The Medicare website provides additional information about eligibility and Medicare-covered services.
There are also several state and local resources for seniors needing help understanding benefits or requiring guidance with the Medicare application process.
Arizona’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides complimentary counseling on Medicare benefits, including payments, prescription drug costs, and doctor or hospital visits. The Phoenix Area Agency on Aging offers support to seniors on many aging-related issues, including help with Medicare and Medicaid. The Arizona Ombudsman Citizen’s Aide is another helpful resource for seniors and their families. Volunteers are unbiased and can help address individual concerns with Medicare and Medicaid issues.
Contact information can be found in the following resources section.
Scottsdale resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration Office
16241 N. Tatum Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Phone (confidential SHIP assistance helpline): 800-432-4040
Phone (Maricopa County lines): 602-280-1059 or 800-432-4040
Arizona Ombudsman — Citizens’ Aide
2020 N Central Ave., Suite 570
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-277-7292
Scottsdale assisted living facilities are licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). The smaller group homes with a capacity of up to 10 residents are licensed as assisted living homes. Larger facilities that accommodate over 20 residents are called assisted living centers by ADHS.
Facility licenses are renewed every 12 months pending an unannounced annual inspection. Facilities are evaluated in several categories including quality of care, caregiver background and training, and resident rights. Examples of the criteria surveyors use to evaluate facilities include the following: [09]
Arizona strengthened its background check requirements in 2022 for workers in assisted living communities. The new law restricts felons convicted of violent crimes and financial fraud from holding positions in Arizona assisted living communities.
The Inspection results can be found for facilities on the Residential Facilities Provider Search Form.
Arizona has no specific COVID-19 regulations for assisted living facilities. However, the Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS) has published COVID-19 guidance for long-term care communities.
For more information regarding Arizona’s regulations and licensing of assisted living communities, explore our Overview of Assisted Living in Arizona.
Vaccinations. Long-term care facilities should encourage their staff and residents to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Masking. Visitors and residents should be encouraged to wear masks during visitations when the county’s transmission level is high. Additionally, staff are encouraged to wear masks upon entering the facility.
Facility cleanliness. Facilities should have a schedule for disinfecting high-touch surfaces.
Staff safety. Long-term care facilities should have established protocols for when staffers test positive with COVID-19.
Social distancing. Visitors and residents should be encouraged to practice social distancing when the county’s transmission level is high.
Quarantining. Residents who aren’t vaccinated or up to date with their boosters and have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 should quarantine, even if they test negative. New admissions and readmissions to the facility who aren’t vaccinated or up to date with boosters should complete a 10-day quarantine.
Number of seniors we’ve referred to partner communities in Scottsdale
Average age of residents referred to partner communities in Scottsdale
Assisted living community type: 61% of our partner communities in Scottsdale are smaller board and care homes.
Scottsdale’s warm, dry weather has long been a draw for seniors, but it also offers a unique combination of urban convenience, exciting activities, and easy access to desert solitude and the rugged McDowell Mountains. Scottsdale seniors benefit from a variety of assisted living community choices from the intimate board and care homes to larger assisted living facilities with their range of activities and luxury options.
Seniors who want the convenience of living in one facility regardless of future care needs will find that Scottsdale offers several multi-care communities to choose from. A Place for Mom’s partner communities include the following options:[01]
Board and care homes are common in Scottsdale and often cost less than larger assisted living communities. Offering a more a personalized experience, these facilities are typically located in residential neighborhoods and many are converted from single-family homes. Residents of board and care homes usually share a room with one other resident and have access to all the common areas of the house.
Personal care services offered at board and care homes are similar to larger assisted living communities and are available 24/7. And, while there may be fewer amenities, these communities usually offer peaceful outdoor common spaces, like a backyard or patio, a dining room, and a living room. Board and care homes typically offer on-site skilled nursing through partnerships with home health care agencies to provide residents with the advanced care they need, so they can age in place.
Scottsdale assisted living facilities are designed with seniors’ overall well-being in mind, providing ample opportunities for intellectual stimulation, physical activity, and socializing. They also provide extra help with activities of daily living which may include assistance with the following tasks:
Scottsdale has a reputation for luxury living which extends to assisted living communities. Residents will find several communities that offer resort-style amenities including:
These communities also have calendars full of engaging activities that seniors of all ability levels can take part in. Examples include barbecues or picnics, holiday and birthday parties, religious services, educational lectures, book clubs, yoga, gardening, and Tai Chi. Off-site group trips are also popular, like trips to the nearby Vegas-style casino.
Scottsdale is home to many assisted living communities with multilingual staff. More than half of our partner communities have Spanish-speaking staff, and 12% have staff that speak Filipino.[01] This helps ensure multilingual seniors can fully communicate their care needs in their preferred language. This also helps residents feel content and comfortable in their new surroundings.
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Scottsdale, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Scottsdale population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Median annual income for Scottsdale seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Scottsdale is home to many high-quality health care facilities. Read on for a few local options.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center offers highly rated adult care for heart failure and colon cancer surgery.
At the Phoenix Mayo Clinic, seniors can receive care at one of Arizona’s best hospitals. This particular facility is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties, including gastroenterology, geriatrics, and urology.
Carl T. Hayden Veterans’ Administration Medical Center
Veterans in the Scottsdale area who need either primary or specialty care can receive these services at the Carl T. Hayden Veterans’ Administration Medical Center.
While a majority of people in Scottsdale rely on their cars to get around town, all of our partner assisted living facilities provide transportation services for residents. This makes trips to the doctor, social outings, or running errands easy and safe. For seniors who prefer to drive, over 50% of our partner communities provide on-site parking.[01]
While public transportation isn’t the most efficient or safe mode of transportation for seniors in Scottsdale, there are a few options available. Scottsdale’s free trolley system operates limited services during the week.
The Valley Metro system operates buses, a light rail system, streetcars, and also has paratransit options in Scottsdale and the surrounding Phoenix metro area. Buses and light rail systems are accessible for individuals with disabilities, and seniors can ride for $2.
Scottsdale’s walkability, bikeability, and public transportation options are rated on a scale of 0-100 by Walk Score, with 100 being the best. Scottsdale received the following scores:
With sunny weather year-round, upscale lifestyle offerings, and beautiful natural sights, Scottsdale has a host of both indoor and outdoor activities for residents and visitors.
The stunning desert views at McDowell Sonoran Preserve can be enjoyed by everyone on the variety of accessible trails. Gather the family for a picnic at the 17-acre Cactus Park. Seniors working on their golf game have numerous local public, private, and semi-private courses to choose from. The fascinating views of Pinnacle Peak from the greens of the semi-private Troon North Golf Club should not be missed.
Scottsdale Fashion Square is one of Scottsdale’s outdoor shopping and dining destinations that has everything from elegant to simple. Old Town Scottsdale embodies the city’s Old West past with plenty of local restaurants and shops.
Scottsdale has many unique, world-class museums for lovers of art, history, and car racing.
For seniors seeking an experience with visiting family or friends, Scottsdale has several fun options that give everyone from grandkids to adult kids the chance to explore.
As a premier arts and culture destination, Scottsdale also has a few performing arts options enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. At the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, you can catch everything from Grammy-winning musicians to music festivals. Additionally, the Desert Stages Theatre offers a more intimate space for fans of plays and musicals.
North Scottsdale Retreat, Golden Touch One Adult Care Home and Sunrise of Scottsdale are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Scottsdale, AZ. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Assisted Living in Scottsdale is $3,763 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.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Scottsdale city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024, February 1). Health insurance for individuals who are 65 or older (and do not need a nursing home level of care).
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024). Covered medical services.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2023, December). Filing an application for the Arizona long term care system (ALTCS).
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What Medicare covers.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024, February 1). Help with paying Medicare costs only.
Arizona Department of Health Services. (2019, November 5). Health care institutions: Licensing article 8. Assisted living facilities.
U.S. News and World Report. (2024). Hospitals in Scottsdale, AZ.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Scottsdale city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024, February 1). Health insurance for individuals who are 65 or older (and do not need a nursing home level of care).
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024). Covered medical services.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2023, December). Filing an application for the Arizona long term care system (ALTCS).
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What Medicare covers.
Arizona Health Care Containment System. (2024, February 1). Help with paying Medicare costs only.
Arizona Department of Health Services. (2019, November 5). Health care institutions: Licensing article 8. Assisted living facilities.
U.S. News and World Report. (2024). Hospitals in Scottsdale, AZ.