In short
Asheville is one of the most popular retirement destinations in the mountains, with a concentration of continuing-care communities that sell out years ahead and home care agencies that serve the wider mountain region. Assisted living runs about $5,500 to $7,000 a month. Buncombe County's aging services are coordinated through the Land of Sky AAA.
What’s available in Asheville
Asheville's senior care market is shaped by its popularity as a retirement destination. Continuing-care communities often have waitlists measured in years, but the range of home care and assisted living options continues to grow.
| Type | Who it’s for | What’s included | In Asheville |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care at home | Wants to stay home, needs daily help | Aides, nursing visits, meals, rides | Licensed agencies available |
| Independent living | Active, done with upkeep | Apartment, meals, activities | Range of options |
| Assisted living | Needs help with meds, bathing, meals | Private apartment, 24-hour staff, care plan | Multiple communities |
| Memory care | Alzheimer’s or dementia | Secured, higher staff ratio | Standalone and campus-based |
| Skilled nursing | Round-the-clock nursing or rehab | Nurses, therapy, medical oversight | Available; Medicare for short rehab |
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What it costs here
Asheville costs run about $5,500 to $7,000 a month for assisted living, depending on the level of care and the neighborhood. Here is the typical range:
| Type | Typical monthly cost | What moves the number |
|---|---|---|
| Independent living | $3,000 to $4,800 | Apartment size, meal plan, amenities |
| Assisted living | $5,500 to $7,000 | Base rent plus care level; higher needs add $500-$1,500 |
| Memory care | $6,000 to $8,500 | Staffing ratio, private vs. shared room |
| Home care | $30 to $35 an hour | Hours per week; rates may vary |
| Skilled nursing | $9,500 to $12,000 | Private vs. semi-private; Medicare for short rehab |
How North Carolina helps pay
North Carolina programs that help seniors pay for care
- Medicaid long-term care
- North Carolina's Medicaid HCBS program covers home and community-based services for qualifying seniors. Apply through the county Department of Social Services.
- Where to start
- Land of Sky Regional Council Area Agency on Aging, 828-251-6622, 339 New Leicester Hwy. Suite 140, Asheville NC 28806; landofsky.org
- Veterans
- VA Aid and Attendance pension for wartime veterans who need help with daily activities.
- Medicare
- Does not pay for assisted living or long-term care. Covers short rehab stays.
Sources: State agency; Medicare.gov; VA.gov. Rules change; confirm current eligibility.
Local resources worth knowing
- Land of Sky AAA 828-251-6622. Serves Buncombe and four surrounding counties. Community Resource Connections options counseling.
- Buncombe County Aging Services 828-250-5800. Adult and aging services, Active Aging Center.
- NC DHSR Division of Health Service Regulation. Licensing and inspection reports.
- Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116. The federal government’s free line for aging services anywhere in the country.
- Adult Protective Services. To report elder abuse or neglect, call the state APS hotline or 911 if there is immediate danger.
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Questions from Asheville families
Is there a waitlist for CCRCs in Asheville?
Yes, at the most popular continuing-care communities, waitlists can be years long. Start the process early.
How does mountain terrain affect care?
Winter weather can affect access to some mountain communities. Ask about snow removal and transportation during inclement weather.
Does North Carolina have a Medicaid program for assisted living?
NC's Medicaid HCBS program covers home and community-based services including assisted living for qualifying seniors.
Sources: CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025; Medicare.gov; Land of Sky Regional Council Area Agency on Aging, 828-251-6622, 339 New Leicester Hwy. Suite 140, Asheville NC 28806; landofsky.org; state agency websites. Retrieved October 8, 2026.