What Is the Average Cost of Assisted Living for a Couple?
Paying for assisted living can be a worry for some couples, especially with average care costs rising yearly, according to the latest reports. If you have recently begun searching for an assisted living community, you might be wondering whether your budget is going to stretch to what you need.
This guide will help answer that question. We'll explore the average cost of assisted living for a couple and how to compare prices from different providers. Read on to learn more about senior living expenses and planning for your retirement.
Assisted Living Costs for Couples: What's Included
Before we look at average costs, it's helpful to understand more precisely what it means to pay for assisted living. While services vary by provider, you can typically expect to see the following as part of an assisted living package:
- Housing
- Daily meals
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Help with personal care like bathing and dressing
- Support for medication management if required
When you move into assisted living as a couple, your costs cover shared accommodation. However, there may be differences in fees for other services you need, such as if one partner needs more daily care than the other.
Many providers, like our senior living community at Discovery Commons Whittier, CA, will also offer additional amenities as part of the package. This may include:
- Social activities on-site
- Wellness programs
- Salon
- Outings
What you get for your money is more important than looking at the headline prices when comparing providers. Those communities that offer a variety of amenities, like Discovery Commons, may offer better value for money in the long run.
Average Cost of Assisted Living for a Couple in California
Costs for assisted living vary across the United States. Hence, you need to focus on averages in California to get a better idea of your likely expenses.
In 2025, the median cost of assisted living across the country was $55,090 per year. Still, in California, this was slightly higher, at around $63,000.
The difference reflects the higher-than-average costs across California, with higher property prices and a higher general cost of living. It's a sought-after location, and that is why you can expect to pay more for assisted living care.
However, as a couple, you may find your accommodation costs are slightly lower than the average single-person expenses since you are sharing with your loved one.
Shared Vs. Private Accommodation: the Impact on Senior Living Expenses
A significant portion of your assisted living costs will cover the accommodation, including any housekeeping, maintenance, utilities, and other running costs you can expect for a property.
However, as a couple, you could opt for a shared apartment or suite, and these are likely to be cheaper than paying for two private units. This will depend on the size of the apartment, so keep that in mind when comparing costs.
Some larger apartments might have features that increase the price, such as spacious lounge areas, separate en-suite bathrooms, and larger kitchenettes. On our website, you'll find floor plans for suites and one and two-bed apartments to help you find the most appropriate accommodation for your budget.
Managing Different Care Needs for Couples
A common situation with couples in assisted living accommodation is that one partner needs more care than the other. It's essential to understand how this impacts your price.
When you shortlist assisted living communities, one of the steps you'll need to complete is a care assessment. That's when a care team will sit with you and establish the daily support you need and how that might change in the future.
For example, some residents might be capable of washing and dressing but would benefit from help with tasks like medication management.
That care plan will impact your assisted living price, so in the case of couples, there will be two separate care plans that will be reflected in the costs of your assisted living package. So while some expenses, like accommodation, will be shared, you'll see different figures under the heading of daily care.
Services and Amenities: The Impact on Costs
You will find that many services are included in assisted living packages, though it will vary by provider. Some may come with an all-inclusive package, whereas others might price additional services as an added extra. Services that could come at an additional price in some communities include:
- Personal laundry services
- Upgraded meal options
- Salon and grooming services
At Discovery Commons, we've provided a package that includes all the extras you need for a high-quality retirement lifestyle. You'll find amenities including:
- Art and craft studio
- 24/7 support
- On-site bistro and cafe
- Fitness classes
- Laundry services
You'll find many more amenities on our website, and you can see the full details here. It's important when comparing prices that you check if other providers offer the same level of amenities. If they don't and they are services you need in retirement, this could add to your ongoing living expenses beyond your monthly care fees.
Financial Planning for Couples
Thoughtful financial planning can help you get the most out of your money in retirement, which is vital if you need to pay for additional support like assisted living care.
Begin by reviewing your income sources, including:
- Savings
- Pensions
- Long-term care insurance policies
- Equity from selling a house
Put together a monthly budget to help manage your costs. That should cover your assisted living expenses, healthcare, and extra personal spending.
Don't forget to factor in potential future costs you might not need now. You should also explore potential benefits you may be entitled to, like our veterans program at Discovery Commons.
Planning Your Future at Assisted Living in Whittier, CA
Now that we have explored the average cost of assisted living for a couple in California, it's time to begin planning. You'll need to set a budget and ensure that you are comparing like-for-like when shortlisting providers.
At Discovery Commons in Whittier, we offer a vibrant senior living community with assisted living and memory care services. This destination is the best of Southern California, mere minutes from Los Angeles, with a beautifully landscaped environment, enriching amenities, and excellent care. Start your research now by booking a tour of our fantastic and affordable assisted living community.