10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Birmingham, AL
For seniors who enjoy Southern hospitality, rich history, and natural beauty, Birmingham might be a perfect place to spend one’s golden years. The city of 200,000 is located in north-central Alabama and is the seat of Jefferson County, which is the Yellowhammer State’s most populous county . Birmingham’s burgeoning arts, entertainment and culture scene adds a buzzy energy to the downtown region, and its historical place in the American Civil Rights movement make it a must-experience travel destination . Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Birmingham boasts more green space per capita than any other city in America
For seniors that need a little extra help, assisted living in Birmingham can be a great option. Assisted living facilities provide housing and support for elderly residents who need assistance with daily activities, such as grooming, mealtime, or bathing. These residential communities provide a variety of care options at a range of price points and housing styles.
Assisted living also provides communal spaces and social events, making it the perfect choice for outgoing seniors. Veterans will especially appreciate Birmingham’s Veterans Day celebration, one of the largest — and the oldest — parades in the United States, which occurs each November .
A Place For Mom has eight assisted living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Birmingham. And residents will find even more activities outside this radius, with multiple senior centers within a 20-minute drive from the center of Birmingham.
In this guide, we’ll list top-rated assisted living facilities in the area, suggest payment options and resources, discuss local laws and regulations, and give you the need to know details on Birmingham’s most popular activities and entertainment.
Birmingham Assisted Living Facilities | 410 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.
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
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...
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...
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...
The small size of this facility was an attractive characteristic. My mother felt immediately comfortable in the environment as soon as we walked through the door the first time. In fact, she noted the...
We were attracted to them because of the high ratings online. Definitely will recommend!! Staff and Nurses were of the highest quality and cost was a bargain. Best of the 4 places my sister stayed at. She...
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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...
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...
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.
Greenbriar on Hanover is a lovely community. My mother is very happy here. The staff is very nice. The community is kept organized and cleaned. One thing i really like is that the meals are delicious. I...
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....
My mom is doing great as a resident in the community. She enjoys the meals and the activities are good. She has been happy so far and the staff are good with the care and good at giving my updates where it...
This is a loving home from home setting environment, lots of love and care needs met, very family oriented, and just over all a great place for your loved ones to continue getting the best out of their daily...
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 assisted living in the Birmingham area
- What families are saying about assisted living in Birmingham
- How people pay for assisted living in Birmingham
- Understand Alabama laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
- What to expect from assisted living in Birmingham
- Birmingham assisted living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Birmingham? Highlights for seniors
Costs of assisted living in the Birmingham area
The average cost of assisted living in Birmingham is around $4,528, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data [05]. This number generally includes associated fees and service fee add-ons, as well as room and board and meal costs. Costs will vary at each facility depending on the chosen floor plan or additional services, such as specific medical needs.
The following chart highlights starting costs for assisted living in Birmingham and surrounding areas to help residents get a better idea for their financial planning. These figures do not include additional costs and services.
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Birmingham, AL vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Birmingham, AL vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Birmingham vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Assisted Living in Birmingham, AL by room type
Average cost of Assisted Living in Birmingham over time
What families are saying about assisted living in Birmingham
Recent reviews for assisted living in Birmingham
Kirkwood by the River in Birmingham, AL
Fair Haven Retirement Community in Birmingham, AL
Morningside of Vestavia Hills
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
Birmingham review score based on 137 family reviews
This proprietary review score is based on 137 reviews of 21 Birmingham assisted living communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.Birmingham review score compared against nearby cities
Review subcategories for Birmingham assisted living
When assisted living residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 137 reviews of 21 Birmingham assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Birmingham resident and family assisted living satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.How people pay for assisted living in Birmingham
Most senior assisted facility residents and their families are able to pay the costs using a mix of private pay options and public funds (such as VA benefits).
There are many different ways to pay for assisted living in Birmingham. The best place to start is to check private resources, including retirement and Health Savings Accounts. Similarly, seniors with investment returns, pensions, or social security benefits may wish to include these in their payment options.
Seniors looking into assisted living options should also contact their insurance provider to determine whether their life or long-term care insurance might offer financial assistance. The following options are also popular financial resources for seniors.
Local veteran service organizations (VSOs) can provide valuable support to seniors in Birmingham who are looking to apply for veterans’ benefits. These organizations offer a range of services to seniors in their search for assisted living facilities, such as financial aid and counseling. If you are a veteran who served during wartime, many disabilities or ailments may qualify you for additional benefits. This extensive list of service-connected ailments outlines what might qualify. Connect with a VSO for help with the process of applying or determining eligibility.
Additionally, the United Way Priority Veterans office in Birmingham assists veterans by helping them locate permanent housing, providing temporary financial aid, and advocating for benefits. The local VFW chapter (Post 668) can also advise seniors on VA benefits and assist with finding additional resources and information. Seniors can also reach out to the local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter for benefits consultation or legal representation where needed.
Using VA benefits to pay for assisted living
The Veterans Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit is a great option for seniors who need help with daily activities. The A&A benefit can be added to a VA pension as additional financial aid; it’s in veterans’ best interest to see whether they qualify. The A&A benefit can provide significant assistance in covering costs for senior living expenses like assisted living.
In order to qualify for Aid and Attendance, eligible veterans must satisfy one of the following requirements:
- Needs help performing daily activities like bathing, feeding, or dressing
- Is bed-ridden due to illness
- Has limited eyesight
- Is a patient in a nursing home due to the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability
Number of veterans who live in Birmingham, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Birmingham veterans are over age 75, according to the U.S. 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
Name: Angela Hunter
Email: a.hunter@va.alabama.gov
Medicaid is a form of government health care for low-income seniors. Alabama Medicaid is a state-run financial-aid program that may pay for some, if not all, assisted living costs for qualifying seniors. Medicaid is beneficial for those who need extra medical care involving memory or are looking into nursing homes and assisted living facilities. While Medicaid qualification depends on income level and state requirements, many families will use a mix of Medicaid and private pay options to finance assisted living over the senior’s lifetime.
Alabama also has multiple forms of Home and Community-Based Waiver Services that can help offset costs and offer various at-home options to low-income elderly residents. Medicaid recipients who need care in a nursing home, hospital, or other institution may receive care in their homes or communities via these waivers. Long-term care options in Alabama also include home health services, private nursing, and hospice care.
The application process can be complex, so advocates and benefit assistants can be found through the United Way and the long-term ombudsman program.
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 County3600 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 government health insurance program for people 65 years or older. While Medicare does not pay for costs associated with assisted living, it can help with medical costs or specialized medical care, such as physical therapy, hospital stays, prescriptions, and doctor visits.
For Alabama residents, Medicare does offer three different Medicare Savings Programs for medical costs. To apply for these various programs, seniors should reach out to the Birmingham District Office.
The Alabama Department of Senior Services also assists seniors and caregivers. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program SHIP program can help with Medicaid waivers, insurance counseling, legal aid, and even healthcare fraud (among other things).
Birmingham resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration1200 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 36104Â Phone: 334-242-5753
Email: ageline@adss.alabama.govÂ
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
Understand Alabama laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
All assisted living facilities must be licensed by the Alabama Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Health Provider Standards. These senior care facilities are licensed as “Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities,” or SCALFs. Once licensed, each facility must comply with all applicable rules and regulations. This includes care coordination, resident rights protections, minimum staffing ratios, training requirements, nursing requirements, specialized programming, activities for residents, and health and safety standards. Standards include:
- Annual continuing education for administrators and staff
- Units may be single- or double occupancy
- Secure boundary or perimeter around the facility
- Locks on all exit doors
- Staff must include an administrator, medical director, unit coordinator, and at least one nurse (in addition to personal care staff)
All assisted living facilities are also subject to regular inspections by the Alabama Department of Public Health. Refer to the Department’s online database for further details on a senior care facility’s past inspection reports and license status. Inspection reports and license status are also available to the public directly through the Alabama Department of Public Health.
Alabama Department of Public Health
201 Monroe St.
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: 800-252-1818
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Birmingham assisted living facilities
While Alabama has loosened many COVID-19 regulations, the state still recommends good hygiene practices throughout facilities. Visitors are encouraged to delay trips to facilities if they have COVID-19 symptoms until a negative test result is obtained. For a full list of all Alabama COVID-19 regulations and requirements, check out the Alabama CDC website.
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Vaccinations. Alabama state law bars organizations and institutions from requiring proof of vaccination status before admission. However, Alabama urges all seniors 50+ to obtain a fourth booster shot.
Social distancing. All facilities welcome visitors, though social distancing and safe practices are encouraged.
What to expect from assisted living in Birmingham
With its low cost of living and vibrant, family friendly community, Birmingham is a popular option for seniors in Alabama looking for quality, affordable assisted living options. Birmingham enjoys one of the lower cost of living averages in the nation [07], making it a desirable area for people from all walks of life. With its beautiful public parks, access to amazing Southern cuisine, and excellent healthcare services, seniors in the region often place Birmingham at the top of their destination list.
High standards of care
Over a quarter of Birmingham assisted living facilities offer in-house skilled nursing staff, allowing seniors to have a wide range of care types {{citation: 8}}. Assisted living residents can expect a nationally ranked hospital in the region and numerous clinics and care facilities in the neighborhood. Veterans are especially well-looked-after in Birmingham, with an extensive network of VA clinics and centers.
Engaging senior community
Following in the great traditions of Southern hospitality, Birmingham has a particularly social senior community. Many assisted living facilities offer devotional services and Bible study, as well as gardening clubs, senior choirs, dances, fitness classes, frequent BBQs, and even quilting and sewing classes.
Space to move
Birmingham assisted living communities are committed to providing opportunities for physical fitness. Many assisted living facilities have both indoor and outdoor communal walking spaces, and there are several walking clubs in the area. For active seniors, Birmingham has several Tai Chi and yoga classes, and even a Wii bowling club.
Birmingham assisted living services and amenities
Availability of select care services in Birmingham assisted living
Availability of select dementia care services in Birmingham assisted living
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Birmingham assisted living
Availability of select dining options in Birmingham assisted living
Availability of select programs and activities in Birmingham assisted living
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Unfamiliar with Birmingham? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Birmingham, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Birmingham population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Median annual income for Birmingham seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Health care for seniors in Birmingham
Birmingham has several well-ranked hospitals and clinics, including several with geriatric specialties. The following hospitals and clinics are the top standouts in the market.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital
This teaching hospital is affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham. It is a Level I trauma center and one of the largest hospitals in Alabama. It is known for its cancer center, cardiology and heart surgery, and neurology and neurosurgery programs. It is nationally ranked in eight adult specialties and rated as “high-performing” in three additional adult specialties and 17 procedures and conditions.
Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham
This Catholic hospital has been serving the Birmingham community for over 120 years. It is known for its cardiology program, orthopedics program, and cancer center. It is also one of the few hospitals in the area that offers robotic-assisted surgery.
Birmingham U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center
This healthcare system offers health care for veterans. With several locations, Birmingham vets can find an outpatient center near them.
Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
This medical center is part of a five hospital network across Alabama. The hospital has been recognized by Healthgrades for outstanding orthopedic, spine, and vascular surgery.
Grandview Medical Center
Grandview has been recognized in several categories for excellent cardiac and stroke care.
Princeton Baptist Medical Center
Princeton has received numerous awards and distinctions for its heart and stroke care.
Transportation for seniors in Birmingham
Birmingham has a high number of drivers and, unfortunately, few options for public transportation. However, Birmingham currently has three excellent choices for seniors who don’t have access to a car. A new initiative launched by Birmingham is Birmingham On-Demand powered by Via, an efficient and affordable transportation option for residents. The program allows residents to access ride-sharing for a flat fee of $1.50 from Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For seniors 60+, The Senior Services Division in Jefferson County offers transportation services to many of the senior centers within the city. Residents can also utilize paratransit transportation through MAX Transit.
WalkScore has rated Birmingham with a walking score of 33 (out of 100), meaning that most residents will need access to transportation or a car. WalkScore rates cities using public density, walking routes, public transit options, and biking trails. The most pedestrian-friendly Birmingham neighborhoods are Central City, Southside, and Five Points South.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Birmingham
Known as The Magic City, this “hidden Southern gem” used to be a capital of industry and has retained its bustling, family friendly atmosphere. Birmingham’s active senior scene is filled with local clubs, events, and activities. The weather is generally mild and there are an abundance of outdoor activities to satisfy nature lovers throughout the year.
Southern good times
Birmingham is certainly an excellent location for any BBQ lover. Famous for its unique white BBQ sauce, Birmingham delivers excellent Southern soul food, with dozens of locations serving up fried green tomatoes, smothered pork chops, and of course, fried chicken. For the sports enthusiast, Birmingham also hosts a casino and race track that’s open 24 hours a day.
Baseball fans can enjoy the Birmingham Barrons Double-A team — an affiliate of the Chicago White Sox — every summer. The University of Alabama at Birmingham has a well-known and accomplished basketball program, and Samford University, located in nearby Homewood, has basketball and football teams.
A place for history lovers
With its rich place in United States history, Birmingham is an excellent city for your resident history buff. Birmingham has four excellent museums: the Civil Rights Museum, a local art museum, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, and for aviation experts, the Southern Museum of Flight.
Seniors who crave a bit of culture can also enjoy the Christenberry Planetarium at Samford University, as well as the historic Alabama Theatre in downtown Birmingham for live music, classic movie showings, and other community events.
Active community centers
Active seniors will find plenty of opportunities to stretch their muscles in Birmingham. The city offers a beautiful botanical garden and local zoo for those who enjoy a view with their daily stroll. Disabled seniors can also find welcoming physical fitness classes and rehabilitation services at the Lakeshore Foundation, along with a variety of health and wellness programs.
There’s also three senior centers within a short drive of downtown Birmingham: The Hoover Senior Center, the Homewood Senior Center, and the Trussville Senior Center. These senior centers provide a library, fitness classes, computer labs, social events, game nights, and educational programs and seminars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Danberry at Inverness, Gardens of Pelham and Monark Grove Greystone are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Birmingham, AL. 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 Birmingham is $4,121 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency. (2023). Jefferson County municipalities [data set].
Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. (2023). What it means to be in Birmingham.
Alabama Tourism Department. (2023). Places To Go >> Cities & Towns >> Birmingham.
National Veterans Day Foundation (2023). Veterans Day History.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12) VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance
PayScale. (2023). Cost of Living in Birmingham, Alabama [data set].
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
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