Families often ask how costs change for assisted living across Massachusetts. This local guide compares estimated assisted living community pricing in Stoneham and Westfield, explains what is included in assisted living costs, and offers tips to plan your budget with confidence.
What is the average monthly cost for assisted living in Massachusetts?
The 2024 Genworth Cost of Care Survey lists the statewide median monthly cost for assisted living in MA at $9058. The Boston metro area median was $7825; the Springfield area was a bit lower at $7265. This indicates that Westfield assisted living may be around $6000-$7000 less expensive on average per year than similar assisted living accommodations in Stoneham.
However, these are just area estimates. Prices will also vary according to neighborhood, apartment style, care plan, and a host of other factors you should be aware of when comparing assisted living communities.
How senior living care levels affect cost
When comparing assisted living prices, it’s helpful to understand that “assisted living” is not one-size-fits-all. One factor affecting costs is the level of support a resident needs.
At The Arbors communities in Massachusetts, we offer three long-term levels of care. Each combines private apartments with access to dining, housekeeping, and enriching activities, while tailoring services to individual needs.
Independent living
Independent living is designed for older adults with an active lifestyle who are largely self-sufficient but want the ease of a maintenance-free daily life. Residents enjoy private apartments, restaurant-style dining, housekeeping services, and access to social and recreational programs. Independent living offers a supportive atmosphere with modern amenities, but without daily personal care services.
Independent living is typically the lowest cost level, and is a great option for active seniors seeking a vibrant community and opportunities to make new friends.
Assisted living
Assisted living combines the independence of a private apartment with personalized support for daily routines. Assisted living residents may receive help with activities such as bathing, dressing, or medication reminders, based on their care plan. The goal is to provide just the right balance of assistance and independence.
Costs in standard assisted living care are generally a little higher than independent living, but include the value of 24/7 personalized support.
Memory care
Memory care is a specialized type of assisted living designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. At The Arbors, memory care includes structured daily routines and dedicated staff trained in dementia care. Residents benefit from sensory activities, social engagement, and supportive cueing to help maintain comfort and dignity.
Memory care generally has the highest monthly cost, but it provides peace of mind for family members seeking expert support and compassionate care.
Note about levels of care: Assisted living communities like The Arbors do not offer the intensive nursing care services you will find in a nursing home.
Does Medicare pay for assisted living in MA?
Medicare does not pay for room and board in a senior living community. It may cover certain on-site medical services from outside health care providers, such as physical or occupational therapy. Find details at Medicare Long Term Care Coverage.
Assisted living: what is included in the base cost?
When comparing assisted living communities, ask what is included in the monthly rate. At The Arbors at Stoneham and The Arbors at Westfield, residents can expect:
- A private studio or one-bedroom apartment
- Three meals daily, plus snacks and dining support if needed
- Regular laundry and housekeeping services
- A full calendar of life enrichment programs and engaging activities
- 24/7 staff presence and prompt response to needs
- Medication management, as outlined in each resident’s care plan
- Assistance with daily living routines, such as bathing, dressing, and mobility
- On-site access to certain medical services from third-party healthcare professionals
Always look past the “sticker price” and account for the total cost of all services and amenities.
What factors affect assisted living community costs?
A number of things influence senior living community costs in Massachusetts. These range from geographical realities to quality of care considerations:
Apartment type: Studio, one bedroom, or larger layouts vary in price. Size, view, and proximity to dining or activities can change rates.
Level of care: Costs are adjusted to match the personalized care plan, including help with daily living, mobility, and medication management.
Care staffing: A higher staff-to-resident ratio usually increases costs, but may offer more personalized attention and support.
Included services: Housekeeping services, meals, maintenance, and activities are typically bundled. Extra services can add to monthly charges.
Specialized programs: Memory care or on-site rehabilitation services may carry additional costs due to training, staffing, and security needs.
Local labor and real estate: Metro Boston communities face higher operating costs than western Massachusetts. This is a major driver of the Stoneham vs. Westfield median cost difference.
Assisted living community cost tips
As you compare senior living options, keep these tips in mind:
- If a studio fits your needs, it will likely be more affordable than a one-bedroom.
- Ensure you’re paying only for the support you need, not unused services.
- Compare communities after adding base costs + extras to get a clear side-by-side picture.
- A higher price doesn’t always mean a better match: personal fit is most important.
- Consider how care needs may change over time and ask about costs upfront.
For answers to common questions about life in a senior living community, see our Senior Assisted Living FAQs.
Benefits that are harder to measure
The right assisted living community addresses resident well-being in ways that can’t be quantified easily:
- A nurturing environment and staff who exhibit genuine care and respect for residents
- Engaging activities that align with your loved one’s interests
- Dining and nutrition support that respond to individual resident needs
- A vibrant community and welcoming neighborhood setting
- An apartment and grounds that feel like home
A brochure or website can’t supply the information you need about food quality or community atmosphere. Tour the apartments, eat a meal, and talk with residents and staff to experience the environment firsthand.
Schedule an in-person or virtual tour today at The Arbors location nearest you.
The Arbors at Stoneham
The Arbors at Stoneham is a vibrant senior living community where residents enjoy a close-knit neighborhood alongside access to top medical centers and cultural opportunities nearby in Boston. Many residents have lived in Stoneham or the surrounding communities for decades, and family members often stop by to stay involved in daily life.
The Arbors staff members take the time to understand each resident’s concerns, from day-to-day well-being to more serious medical needs. With personalized assisted living plans, chef-prepared dining, and a full calendar of programs, the Arbors at Stoneham combines high-quality senior care with the warmth of a community that celebrates every stage of life.
The Arbors at Westfield
The Arbors at Westfield reflects the heart of western Massachusetts: down-to-earth, family-focused, and deeply rooted in tradition and faith. Just minutes from Springfield, Westfield offers both a small-town feel and quick access to Pioneer Valley specialists and hospitals in nearby cities. Neighbors often become friends through meals, social gatherings, and local outings.
Staff members at The Arbors at Westfield help residents with daily routines while encouraging independence and joy. Whether enjoying time outdoors at nearby parks or joining a lively activity inside, residents and their families appreciate the welcoming environment that makes Westfield a true home.
Find the right senior living community in Massachusetts
Compare your options, ask about current availability, and request a tailored estimate from each community you explore. Be sure to tour each one, ideally more than once, to experience it in person. Reach out to The Arbors to schedule a tour and discuss costs for assisted living, independent living, memory care, or short-term respite care at Stoneham, Westfield, or one of our other assisted living locations in Massachusetts or Connecticut.