10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Asheville, NC
Assisted living facilities can be a vital support system for seniors who require help with daily living activities. In Asheville, there are several top-notch assisted living facilities that offer a range of services to their residents, from on-site doctors and rehabilitation services to in-house staff assistance with daily activities. These facilities strive to provide a comfortable and safe living environment with plenty of opportunities for socializing and community engagement, as well as excursions to the many exciting activities Asheville has to offer.
Finding the right assisted living facility should be stress-free, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to walk you through the process. This guide focuses on the six assisted living facilities we partner with within a 10-mile radius of downtown Asheville. Whether you or a loved one are searching for a rustic retreat or luxury accommodations, Asheville has something to fit your preferences.
After exploring the various types of assisted living facilities, we’ll cover important topics such as costs, payment options, and laws and regulations for assisted living facilities in Asheville, so you can make an informed decision for yourself or your loved one.
Asheville Assisted Living Facilities | 129 Reviews
I liked the place and would have kept her there but she said she didn't like it. There were always activities and she did a lot of walking to stay active. I only worried about her getting enough to drink...
I would recommend to others. No facility is perfect but I'm very pleased overall. Management and health and wellness director very responsive to our needs.
The facility did an amazing job taking care of the residents when Hurricane Helene struck. The facility was without power and water for an extended period of time. My mom felt commented how amazing the staff...
I would recommend it for a family style type of living. I liked it because it was small and similar to how my mom's personality is. I really like the staff
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Our methodology
How we rank order the Asheville community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Asheville 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 Asheville area
- What families are saying about assisted living in Asheville
- How people pay for assisted living in Asheville
- Understand North Carolina laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
- What to expect from assisted living in Asheville
- Asheville assisted living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Asheville? Highlights for seniors
Costs of assisted living in the Asheville area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average cost of assisted living in Asheville is $4,978 monthly.[01] This cost reflects actual expenses paid by residents across a range of different floor plans and with various amenities. It also includes associated fees and service fee add-ons, such as the costs of in-house care and medication management, providing a comprehensive and clear picture of what individuals can expect when budgeting for assisted living.
The following figures represent the baseline costs you can expect (without any extra fees). It’s always good to know what you’re working with before factoring in add-ons, so consider this a starting point.
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Asheville, NC vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Asheville, NC vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Asheville vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Assisted Living in Asheville, NC by room type
Average cost of Assisted Living in Asheville over time
What families are saying about assisted living in Asheville
Recent reviews for assisted living in Asheville
Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park in Hendersonville, NC
Marjorie McCune Memorial Center in Black Mountain, NC
Brookdale Asheville Overlook
Asheville review score based on 43 family reviews
This proprietary review score is based on 43 reviews of 21 Asheville assisted living communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.Asheville review score compared against nearby cities
Review subcategories for Asheville 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 43 reviews of 21 Asheville assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Asheville 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 Asheville
When it comes to paying for assisted living in Asheville, several options are available to seniors and their families. Private payment methods are a common choice for those who have saved for retirement or have the income to cover the costs. However, government programs like VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare can help ease the financial burden of assisted living for eligible seniors.
It is important to know all available payment options. The following sections highlight private pay, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid resources. Navigate through the benefits offered by each payment option to find the best fit for you or your loved one.
Private pay simply means using personal funds to cover the cost of an assisted living facility. This could include income sources like savings, pensions, or investment returns. However, there are several ways to pay for care besides traditional means, such as selling property or taking out a reverse mortgage. Health savings accounts, insurance policies, Social Security assistance, and other resources can also provide support when paying for assisted living.
While it may not be the right choice for every family, private pay can be a valuable option to consider when planning for senior care in Asheville. Take time to explore your options, including the following, to make the best decision on financing care while maintaining financial stability.
Number of veterans who live in Asheville
About 24% of Asheville veterans are 75+
Asheville’s veteran community has access to many resources dedicated to helping veterans receive the benefits available to them. From VA benefits to financial grants, there are state, federal, and local organizations that provide critical resources and assistance so veterans can take full advantage of the benefits they are eligible for.
Asheville veterans and surviving family members might qualify for monthly VA Pension payments, which can be used to finance anything that enhances their quality of life, such as the cost of assisted living. Additionally, some veterans may be eligible for extra financial assistance added to their VA Pension through the Aid and Attendance benefit. This can also be used to cover any expenses that improve a veteran’s quality of life, including housing and health care-related costs.
The enrollment process is complex, and VA-vetted representatives are ready to help! For assistance, there are valuable local resources available, such as the Buncombe County Veterans Services Office, the Asheville area Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization, the North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs, and local American Legion Posts.
These organizations provide vital support when considering how to apply for and use VA benefits.
Resources for Asheville veterans
Buncombe County Veterans Services Office
40 Coxe Ave.
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: 828-250-5726
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
413 N. Salisbury St.
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: 844-624-8387
American Legion Posts
103 Reddick Road
Asheville, NC 288805
Phone: 828-299-8463
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
851 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: 828-505-4729
1329 Tunnel Road
Asheville, NC 28805
Phone: 828-298-7952
Winston-Salem DAV Office
251 N. Main St., Room 151
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: 336-631-5481
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Medicaid does not cover the cost of room and board in an assisted living facility. However, North Carolina’s Medicaid program (known as NC Medicaid) can provide care that extends beyond just health care to senior care through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. These waivers enable eligible individuals to use Medicaid funding to pay for senior care services at assisted living facilities.
Through NC Medicaid’s HCBS waiver programs, the Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) Waiver, NC Innovations Waiver, and NC Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver provide various services for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with brain injuries. These waivers offer services such as:
- Residential support
- Day support
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, etc.)
- Medication administration
- Home modifications
- Assistive technology
There are additional services offered depending on the senior’s specific needs. This fact sheet on North Carolina Waivers offers more information on the services and benefits of each program.
You can visit the NC Medicaid page to start the application process or the specific application site. Keep in mind there are resources available to help determine eligibility and navigate the application process for any of the HCBS waivers and Medicaid in general. The Buncombe County Health & Human Services, Council on Aging of Buncombe County, and the NC Medicaid Ombudsman are available to help through every step. From finding the right program to simply answering questions, these resources are here to make the process as easy as possible.
Asheville resident Medicaid resources
Buncombe County Health & Human Services
40 Coxe Ave.
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: 828-250-5500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Council on Aging of Buncombe County
46 Sheffield Circle
Asheville, NC 28803
Phone: 828-277-8288
Email: info@COAbc.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
NC Medicaid Ombudsman
Email: info@ncmedicaidombudsman.org
Phone: 877-201-3750
When it comes to Medicare coverage, it’s essential to know what’s covered and what’s not. While Medicare doesn’t cover custodial costs for assisted living, such as room and board, it can help with medically necessary in-home care, such as nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
In Asheville, seniors have access to a variety of programs to help afford certain medical expenses.
- Assistance with Medicare premium payments is available for Medicare enrollees through the Medicare Savings Program (MSP). More information about this program can be found in this guide.
- Low-cost medication can be accessed through the NC Medication Assistance Program (MAP).
- Free counseling and assistance in understanding Medicare plans and applying for and managing Medicare costs are available through the NC Medicare and Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP).
- Comprehensive medical care, including primary care, hospital care, prescription drugs, and home care services, is available through the CarePartners Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) for eligible seniors in Buncombe or Henderson County.
Navigating the world of Medicare enrollment and eligibility can be overwhelming, but help is available. The Social Security Administration office is a great place to start, and it can provide invaluable assistance throughout the entire process. The local office of Aging and Adult Services or Ombudsman Program can also answer any questions or provide additional information about Medicare coverage options. These resources play a vital role in better understanding the intricacies of the system and ensuring that seniors have access to all the care they may need as they age. Whether it’s finding the right Medicare plan or understanding benefits, trained professionals and ample resources are available locally to make seniors’ lives a little bit easier.
Asheville resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration Office
800 Centrepark Drive
Asheville, NC 28805
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Aging and Adult Services
Contact: Joyce Massey-Smith
Phone: 919-855-3400
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
Contact: Victor Orija, state long-term care ombudsman
Email: victor.orija@dhhs.nc.gov
Phone: 919-855-3426
Contact: Renee Kea, ombudsman/elder rights specialist
Email: renee.kea@dhhs.nc.gov
Phone: 919-855-3431
Contact: Kendra Dixon, ombudsman program specialist
Email: lakendra.dixon@dhhs.nc.gov
Phone: 919-855-3433
Understand North Carolina laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
Assisted living facilities in North Carolina are known as Adult Care Homes and must be licensed and meet specific standards set by the Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR). North Carolina has a comprehensive set of laws and regulations covering everything from licensing and physical building standards to the level of care provided by the staff and complaint procedures. These regulations ensure that residents receive safe and appropriate care in a supportive and respectful environment.
Inspection laws
The Adult Care Licensure Section of the North Carolina DHSR is responsible for inspecting and monitoring all licensed assisted living facilities in the state. Routine inspections are conducted at least once per year, with additional inspections possible based on complaints or changes in ownership. Facility inspections thoroughly evaluate staffing, resident care, medication management, safety, and other aspects to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Inspection reports are publicly available on the DHSR website through its searchable online database. This database allows users to search for inspection reports by facility name, city, or county, and the reports will show specific infractions found during the inspections. This transparency not only provides peace of mind for loved ones who may be searching for a safe and reliable assisted living facility but also holds these facilities accountable for their performance and the care provided to residents.
Resident rights and care plans
Assisted living residents in North Carolina have specific rights, including privacy, the ability to receive visitors and participate in activities, and freedom from abuse and neglect. To ensure that each resident’s needs and preferences are being met, facilities are required to develop individualized care plans that are updated regularly to reflect any changes in the resident’s condition.
This comprehensive care plan covers everything from their current health status to nutrition, safety, and activities of daily living. The facility, along with the resident, their family or representative, and health care providers, all work together to create a plan tailored to the resident’s needs. By working collaboratively, everyone can ensure that the resident receives the best possible care and support to achieve their goals. Furthermore, the DHSR provides guidance on the development of care plans.
Staffing requirements
The North Carolina DHSR sets rigorous training requirements to ensure staff members are well-equipped to provide high-quality care. Every staff member in an assisted living facility must receive thorough training on a range of critical topics, including resident rights, activities of daily living (ADLs), basic medical care (such as medication administration), and effective communication skills with residents, families, and fellow staff members. These essential skills enable staff to provide excellent care for residents in a dignified, respectful, and compassionate manner.
Assisted living staff members in North Carolina are also required to complete yearly training on fire safety and emergency preparedness, as well as ongoing education and training on crucial topics like resident care, dementia care, and cultural competence. These requirements ensure that staff members are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise.
In addition to training and education, the DHSR sets rules around the number of staff present. Generally, there must be sufficient staff to provide for residents’ needs, and at a minimum, there must be at least one staff member awake and on duty 24/7.
Full details on resident rights, care plans, and staff requirements for North Carolina assisted living facilities can be found on the DHSR website.
North Carolina Department of Health contact information
NC Department of Health and Human Services
2001 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699
Phone: 800-662-7030
COVID-19 regulations for Asheville assisted living facilities
Asheville’s assisted living facilities follow guidance from the CDC and state officials to protect the health and safety of seniors and staff. There are no specific regulations for Asheville assisted living facilities; however, the state of North Carolina continues to provide resources and updates to keep residents and their families informed.
Residents can also find up-to-date information on local testing sites and vaccination clinics through the Buncombe County website.
Vaccinations.
North Carolina residents, especially vulnerable populations, are strongly encouraged to get fully vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19.
Masks.
For those who have not yet received their vaccination, it is recommended that they continue to wear masks and maintain a distance of six feet from others as a precautionary measure.
What to expect from assisted living in Asheville
Assisted living facilities in Asheville pride themselves on providing a warm and welcoming environment, top-notch care, and opportunities for residents to stay engaged and active. Whether you or your loved one is a long-time resident of the area or considering a move to this beautiful mountain town, you’ll find plenty to appreciate and enjoy.
Spacious floor plans
Asheville is home to a variety of assisted living options that can meet the unique needs of any senior. Each facility provides the perfect balance of luxury, comfort, and convenience in its own way. Some offer rooms with exquisite garden views, allowing residents to take in the beauty of the surrounding scenery while relaxing in the comfort of their homes. Other floor plans feature a private patio, deck, or balcony — an ideal spot to relax and unwind while enjoying a stunning view of the city or the gardens.
Exceptional amenities
Asheville’s assisted living facilities offer exceptional amenities that provide seniors with an engaging, supportive, and fulfilling lifestyle. Amenities are tailored to meet individual needs and preferences, with various features and services that make life easier and more enjoyable.
Many facilities have on-site beauty salons and barber shops offering premium services for residents looking to feel refreshed and revitalized. Libraries, game rooms, and therapy rooms are also common at our partner facilities, giving residents ample opportunities to explore their interests and interact with their neighbors.
Most assisted facilities in Asheville offer transportation services, making it convenient for residents to attend appointments and group outings. This frees up time for socializing and participating in activities, allowing residents to make meaningful connections with others.
In addition, most of our partners offer restaurant-style dining and three meals a day, with food made from scratch (with fresh, often organic ingredients). Some even have pastry chefs who prepare delicious desserts. To make life even simpler and more enjoyable for residents, many of our partner communities manage daily housekeeping chores and provide postal services and home maintenance.
Diverse activities
Assisted living facilities in Asheville organize various activities for residents’ interests and passions. Types of activities that may be offered, depending on the facility, are:
- Art classes
- Cooking classes
- Tai chi and other exercise classes
- Educational speakers/life-long learning
- Day trips and outings
- Live musical performances
- Barbecues or picnics
- Volunteering opportunities
- Pet-focused programs
- Gardening clubs
- Trivia games
- Walking clubs
- Choir/singing clubs
A full calendar of social, cultural, educational, and spiritual activities is available to keep residents entertained and happy.
Outdoor amenities of many of our communities include walking paths, patios, shuffleboard courts, and putting greens. Some also have gardens where everyone is welcome to help tend to the plants and even heated indoor pools so residents can swim year-round.
Asheville assisted living services and amenities
Availability of select care services in Asheville assisted living
Availability of select dementia care services in Asheville assisted living
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Asheville assisted living
Availability of select dining options in Asheville assisted living
Availability of select programs and activities in Asheville assisted living
Explore senior care with confidence
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.
Unfamiliar with Asheville? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Asheville
Median annual income for Asheville seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Asheville
Mission Hospital
Mission Hospital is a top-tier Level II Trauma center, specializing in orthopedic trauma care and serving the western region of North Carolina.
UNC Health-Pardee
UNC Pardee excels in health care services, ranging from its renowned Level I Trauma Center to its exceptional treatments for COPD, GI conditions, and substance abuse disorders.
Charles George Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Charles George VA Hospital offers comprehensive care and surgical services to veterans who have served in the armed forces.
Transportation for seniors in Asheville
Asheville’s downtown area is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with a variety of must-visit destinations to explore on foot. However, a car is necessary to fully experience the surrounding outdoor activities and all that Asheville has to offer. As such, 83% of our partner communities offer complimentary transportation, and 33% offer at-cost transportation.
Asheville Rides Transit (ART) bus services provide free transportation options to seniors who rely on public transit. Through the Mountain Mobility program, individuals over the age of 65 receive a complimentary monthly bus pass, with no need for scheduling ahead of time. And for elderly or disabled residents needing additional transportation, the RIDE voucher program provides discounted services.
To better understand how easy it is to get around Asheville, look at its walkability and public transport scores, rated from 0 to 100 based on system efficiency, density, biking infrastructure, and walking routes.[05]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Asheville
Seniors can always find something to do in Asheville, from outdoor excursions to laid-back social and cultural events. Whether you or your loved one is interested in trying something new or sticking to tried-and-true favorites, Asheville’s senior activities scene has something for everyone.
Among the many perks of Asheville is its scenery. Being surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains gives residents not just a stunning everyday view but endless options for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The area is also home to various parks, gardens, and nature preserves, so active seniors can enjoy the outdoors more leisurely by joining one of many clubs, including the Green Thumb Garden Club, the Senior Hike Trail Club, or the Story Trail Bird Watching Club.
Those who like to experience the beauty of nature will also enjoy a trip to the North Carolina Arboretum, which has acres of gardens and trails. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the area’s nature and wildlife, and the main garden areas are wheelchair accessible. In addition, caregivers can request a complimentary Caregiver’s Pass, allowing them to assist a person with a disability who has a ticket for a special event or class at the Arboretum.
Beyond its outdoor appeal, Asheville is a city that truly embraces its cultural heritage and arts scene. Not only are there numerous galleries, theaters, and museums highlighting local and national artists, but there are also a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Asheville Wine and Food Festival and the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival are just a couple of examples of how the community comes together to celebrate the unique history and culture of the area. Both events can accommodate wheelchairs.
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is another popular destination for more spiritual residents and visitors of Asheville. It also holds appeal for architecture and history lovers, as it was built in the Spanish Renaissance style in 1905. Visitors can take complimentary guided tours or self-guided tours, which are wheelchair accessible.
With stunning scenery, a vibrant downtown area, and diverse attractions for people of all ages and abilities, Asheville is the perfect place for seniors to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mars Hill Manor, Harmony at Reynolds Mountain and Arbor Terrace of Asheville are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Asheville, NC. 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 Asheville is $4,451 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Mission Hospital-Asheville.
Healthgrades (2023). Pardee Hospital.
Walk Score. (2023). Asheville, NC.
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