Massachusetts Senior Living

Center of all things historical in the US, senior living in Massachusetts is an ideal place for retired residents that want the sophistication of art married to the nostalgic magic of historical places and events. Offering the bustle of city life and the calming relaxation of the countryside, Massachusetts has it all.

According to the 2011 estimates made by the U.S. Census Bureau, Massachusetts boasts a greater population of seniors (about 14%) compared to the national average of 13.3%. Maryland senior living options are quite varied and range from luxury residences to affordable care, both in assisted and independent living arrangements.

Massachusetts Assisted Living Costs

Assisted living facilities are regulated by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, which has strict requirements for a facility to gain certification for assisted living care.

The average monthly cost of independent living in Massachusetts is about $4,117, depending on the area. These costs range from $1,915 to $7,000. **From the SeniorHomes.com 2012 Independent Living Cost Survey. (http://www.seniorhomes.com/p/independent-living-costs/)

Retirement in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a cost of living considerably higher than the national average of 100. At 138, the commonwealth average is affected by significantly higher prices from Boston's elite. While Boston does prove to be more expensive than elsewhere in the state, all counties have a cost of living higher than the national average. *www.bestplaces.com

Massachusetts does not tax Social Security benefits, and most pensions are exempt from tax, as well. Income tax is 5.3%, and is a flat rate for all citizens. *www.kiplinger.com

The average cost of a home in Massachusetts is $283,700, but prices have a staggering fluctuation between the average of Cape Cod's Metro area, around $314,400 and the Springfield Metro area that averages at around $182,700. *Zillow Home Value Index 2012

Did you know that...?

• Massachusetts has a 6.25% sales tax. There are exemptions for food, all fuel costs, prescription medication and clothing of up to $175. *www.kiplinger.com
• The commonwealth also also gives refundable tax credits to eligible seniors for real estate taxes paid on a principal residence. *www.kiplinger.com
• There is no inheritance tax in Massachusetts. Estate tax is only applicable on estates greater than $1 million, and rates vary from less than 1% and up to 16%. *www.kiplinger.com

Best Cities in Massachusetts for Retirees

Boston holds such riches as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Institute of Contemporary art, not to mention the limitless entertainment found in theater, opera and symphonic delight, and while Boston is ideal in terms of culture, it is a costly place to retire.

On the smaller (and less costly) scale, Northampton, Massachusetts made CNN's list of Top 25 cities for retirement. This small town of about 39,000 has an older population, with 34% of its citizens over the age of 50. A perk found in this picturesque town is an organization founded to support education in retirement. Northampton is home to five colleges and universities, and offers a great deal of learning opportunities for seniors. 

Health Care in Massachusetts

There are 167 hospitals in the commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Massachusetts is known for its health care system, a pioneer of a model that has been implemented on a national level. The commonwealth's health care system covers health costs for eligible low-to-moderate income seniors, and in some cases, helps to provide long-term care for assisted living. *Massachusetts Executive Office for Elder Care

Quick Medical Guide for Massachusetts:

• A Complete List of Local Hospitals
• Consumer Reports: Highest Ranked Hospitals in Massachusetts
• Senior Agencies in Massachusetts

Activities for Seniors in Massachusetts

From culturally rich museums, art galleries and music, Massachusetts offers a uniquely refined entertainment environment. In addition, larger populated areas have centers for seniors, focusing on activities based on the surrounding culture, history and nature of the area. With a history dating back to the 1600s, the historical elements of Massachusetts are priceless.

Local Weather

This commonwealth boasts clearly defined seasons, with warm summers, breath-takingly beautiful New England autumns, cold, snowy winters, and cherry-blossom springs. Temperatures and precipitation tend to be milder along the coast, becoming more acute toward the western border. See what the weather is like right now in Massachusetts

Sharp Seniors has 40 Senior Living Facilities in Massachusetts

• 38 of them offer Senior Living
• 33 of them offer Assisted Living
• 29 of them offer Alzheimer's Care
• 26 of them offer Respite
• 3 of them offer Hospice Care
• 2 of them offer Short Term/ Rehabilitative Service
• 2 of them offer Skilled Nursing Facility
• 1 of them offer Continuing Care (CCRC)