Senior Living in Chattanooga, TN
Discover quality senior living options in the Scenic City, home to over 31,000 seniors and 9 trusted communities.
10 Senior Living Communities in Chattanooga
10 communities
Charter Senior Living of Chattanooga
825 Runyan Drive
Creekside at Shallowford
7511 Shallowford Road
Dominion Senior Living of Hixson
2143 Northpoint Boulevard
Morning Pointe Senior Living of Chattanooga at Shallowford
7719 Shallowford Road
Morning Pointe Senior Living of Hixson
5501 Old Hixson Pike
Rockbridge Oaks
6698 Palms Court
Rockbridge Oaks
6698 Palms Court
Signal Mountain Senior Living
1005 Mountain Creek Road
StoryPoint Chattanooga
1148 Mountain Creek Road
The Lantern at Morning Pointe Senior Living Chattanooga
7620 Shallowford Road
Chattanooga, Tennessee, known as the Scenic City, is home to 31,357 seniors aged 65 and older, representing 17.2% of the city's 182,832 residents. Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by mountains, Chattanooga offers seniors a vibrant blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and quality healthcare facilities. With a median household income of $61,028 and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger Southern cities, Chattanooga presents an attractive option for retirees seeking both amenities and value.
The city features 9 senior living communities offering a range of care options, from independent living to memory care and skilled nursing. With 6 CMS-rated nursing facilities averaging 3 out of 5 stars, families have choices when considering long-term care needs. Chattanooga's revitalized downtown, extensive riverfront parks, and growing healthcare infrastructure make it increasingly senior-friendly. The city's commitment to walkability, particularly in areas like the Southside and North Shore, combined with its mild climate and lower cost of living, creates an environment where seniors can maintain active, engaged lifestyles while accessing the care they need.
Cost of Senior Living in Chattanooga
Senior living costs in Chattanooga are notably more affordable than national averages, making the Scenic City an attractive option for retirees on fixed incomes. Assisted living in Chattanooga averages approximately $5,015 per month, significantly below the national average of $5,900. Nursing home care costs around $7,885 monthly for a semi-private room, compared to the national average of $9,277. These lower costs reflect Tennessee's overall affordability while still providing quality care options. Actual expenses vary based on the level of care required, community amenities, location within the city, and individual health needs, so families should tour multiple communities to compare services and pricing.
Neighborhoods in Chattanooga for Seniors
North Shore
North Shore is one of Chattanooga's most walkable and vibrant neighborhoods, ideal for active seniors who enjoy boutique shopping, riverside trails, and community events. Located just across the Tennessee River from downtown via the Walnut Street Bridge, this area features tree-lined streets, locally owned restaurants, and the popular Coolidge Park. Seniors appreciate the neighborhood's pedestrian-friendly layout, proximity to cultural attractions like the Hunter Museum of American Art, and easy access to healthcare facilities downtown. The community atmosphere is welcoming, with regular farmers markets and outdoor concerts that encourage social engagement.
Southside
The Southside neighborhood has experienced significant revitalization and offers seniors a perfect blend of urban convenience and historic charm. This area features the Main Street District with its galleries, restaurants, and the Creative Discovery Museum nearby. Seniors living here benefit from excellent walkability, proximity to Erlanger Hospital and other medical facilities, and easy access to the Chattanooga Choo Choo complex. The neighborhood's mix of historic homes and modern apartments, combined with the Main Terrain Art Park and regular community events, creates an engaging environment for retirees seeking culture and convenience.
Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain offers seniors a more peaceful, suburban setting with spectacular views and natural beauty. This elevated community provides a cooler climate and is home to notable attractions like Rock City and Ruby Falls. The area features quiet, winding roads and larger properties, appealing to seniors who prefer tranquility and scenic surroundings. While less walkable than downtown neighborhoods, Lookout Mountain offers proximity to quality healthcare via nearby Signal Mountain and downtown facilities. The tight-knit community atmosphere and stunning vistas make this an attractive option for seniors seeking serenity without being too far from city amenities.
Hixson
Hixson, located in the northern part of the Chattanooga area along the Tennessee River, provides seniors with a suburban lifestyle and excellent accessibility to shopping, dining, and healthcare. This neighborhood features several senior living communities and offers proximity to Memorial Hospital and numerous medical practices along Highway 153. The area is characterized by more affordable housing options, established neighborhoods, and convenient access to both riverfront recreation and commercial centers like Northgate Mall. While requiring a vehicle for most activities, Hixson's central location between downtown Chattanooga and neighboring communities makes it practical for seniors with varying needs.
Senior Care Options in Chattanooga
Chattanooga's 9 senior living communities provide a comprehensive range of care options to meet diverse needs. Families can find independent living communities for active seniors, assisted living facilities offering personal care and medication management, memory care units specifically designed for those with Alzheimer's and dementia, and skilled nursing facilities providing 24-hour medical care. The city's 6 CMS-rated nursing homes, averaging 3 stars, complement these options with rehabilitation and long-term care services for seniors with complex medical needs.
Healthcare & Transportation
Chattanooga offers excellent healthcare access for seniors, anchored by major facilities including Erlanger Health System, CHI Memorial Hospital, and Parkridge Medical Center. These comprehensive medical centers provide specialized geriatric care, cardiac services, and emergency care throughout the region. The city has made significant strides in walkability, particularly in downtown and North Shore areas, though most neighborhoods require vehicle access. CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority) operates public buses with senior discounts, and the free Electric Shuttle serves downtown areas. Many senior living communities provide transportation services for medical appointments and shopping, while specialized senior transport services like Care-A-Van help residents maintain independence and access healthcare facilities.
Activities & Recreation Near Chattanooga
Chattanooga's Scenic City designation reflects its abundant recreational opportunities for seniors. The Tennessee Riverwalk provides accessible paths for walking and biking along the waterfront, while attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, Hunter Museum of American Art, and Chattanooga Theatre Centre offer cultural enrichment. Seniors can explore Lookout Mountain, enjoy performances at the Tivoli Theatre, or participate in programs at local senior centers. The city's numerous parks, including Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park, host community events and provide spaces for outdoor enjoyment year-round.
Weather & Climate in Chattanooga
Chattanooga experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with temperatures often reaching the upper 80s and low 90s, while winters are mild with average highs in the upper 40s and occasional light snow. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather with moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, making these seasons especially enjoyable for seniors who want to explore the city's natural beauty and attractions.
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