Senior Living in Norfolk, VA
Home to nearly 30,000 seniors, Norfolk offers waterfront charm and accessible healthcare options for older adults seeking quality care.
4 Senior Living Communities in Norfolk
4 communities
Acclaim at East Beach
4801 Pretty Lake Avenue
Commonwealth Senior Living at Leigh Hall
890 Poplar Hall Dr.
Commonwealth Senior Living at The Ballentine
7211 Granby Street
The Talbot on Granby
6311 Granby Street
Norfolk, Virginia is home to approximately 29,560 residents aged 65 and older, representing 12.6% of the city's total population of 235,037. As a historic port city with deep naval roots and stunning waterfront views, Norfolk provides seniors with a unique blend of coastal living, cultural attractions, and accessible healthcare facilities. The city's maritime heritage is complemented by modern amenities, including the Chrysler Museum of Art, nautical attractions, and beautiful parks along the Elizabeth River.
With a median household income of $64,017 and a relatively young median age of 32.4 years, Norfolk offers an intergenerational community where seniors can find both peaceful residential neighborhoods and vibrant urban experiences. The city features 2 senior living communities listed on our directory, providing options for assisted living and specialized care. Norfolk's strategic location in Hampton Roads means residents benefit from proximity to world-class medical centers, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, while enjoying the moderate coastal climate and rich military history that defines this resilient waterfront city.
Cost of Senior Living in Norfolk
The average cost of assisted living in Norfolk is approximately $5,900 per month, which aligns with the national average. Nursing home care in Norfolk costs around $9,277 monthly for a semi-private room, also comparable to national figures. These costs can vary significantly based on the level of care required, the specific community's amenities, location within the city, and whether specialized services like memory care are needed. Families should consider that private rooms, enhanced services, and communities in more desirable neighborhoods like Ghent may command premium pricing above these averages.
Neighborhoods in Norfolk for Seniors
Ghent
Ghent is Norfolk's most walkable and charming historic neighborhood, featuring tree-lined streets, early 20th-century architecture, and an abundance of local shops and restaurants along Colley Avenue. Seniors appreciate the neighborhood's pedestrian-friendly design, proximity to the Elizabeth River Trail for leisurely walks, and easy access to Sentara Leigh Hospital. The area offers a strong sense of community with farmers markets, art galleries, and cafes within walking distance. Ghent's mature trees and well-maintained sidewalks create an inviting environment for older adults who value independence and neighborhood character.
Colonial Place
Colonial Place is a quiet, established residential neighborhood adjacent to Ghent, known for its stately brick homes and peaceful, tree-canopied streets. This area offers seniors a serene environment with excellent walkability to local parks and the Lafayette River waterfront. The neighborhood features minimal through-traffic, making it particularly safe for walking and outdoor activities. Residents enjoy proximity to both Ghent's commercial amenities and downtown Norfolk's cultural attractions. Colonial Place's strong neighborhood association and active community spirit create a welcoming atmosphere for retirees seeking a traditional neighborhood feel with convenient urban access.
Ocean View
Ocean View offers seniors direct access to Chesapeake Bay beaches and a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle compared to downtown Norfolk. This waterfront neighborhood features Ocean View Beach Park with a fishing pier, walking paths, and stunning water views that attract active retirees. The area has experienced revitalization in recent years, with improved infrastructure and new dining options along East Beach. While more residential and spread out than Ghent, Ocean View provides a peaceful beach community atmosphere with good vehicle access to medical facilities. The neighborhood appeals to seniors who prioritize waterfront living and outdoor recreation.
Larchmont
Larchmont is an upscale, family-friendly neighborhood featuring well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and easy access to the Elizabeth River. Seniors in this area benefit from the neighborhood's safe, quiet character and proximity to shopping centers along Granby Street. The community features sidewalks conducive to walking, nearby parks, and a strong neighborhood identity. Larchmont's central location provides convenient access to medical facilities, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, while maintaining a suburban residential feel. The neighborhood's stability and mature landscaping create an attractive environment for retirees seeking comfort and accessibility.
Senior Care Options in Norfolk
Norfolk's senior living landscape includes assisted living communities that provide personal care assistance with daily activities, memory care programs designed for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia, and independent living options for active seniors. The city's 2 listed communities offer varying levels of support to match individual health needs and lifestyle preferences, with amenities ranging from medication management to social programs and dining services.
Healthcare & Transportation
Norfolk is home to exceptional healthcare facilities, anchored by Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a Level I Trauma Center and teaching hospital, along with Sentara Leigh Hospital and the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters. The city's medical infrastructure benefits from its role as a regional healthcare hub for Hampton Roads. Transportation options include Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), which operates bus routes throughout the city with reduced fares for seniors, as well as HRT's paratransit services for those with mobility challenges. Many senior living communities also provide scheduled transportation to medical appointments and shopping destinations.
Activities & Recreation Near Norfolk
Norfolk offers seniors abundant cultural and recreational opportunities, including the renowned Chrysler Museum of Art with free admission, the Virginia Zoo, and the Norfolk Botanical Garden's 175 acres of themed gardens. The Nauticus maritime museum and USS Wisconsin battleship provide engaging historical experiences, while the Elizabeth River Trail offers scenic waterfront walking and cycling paths. Downtown's Scope Arena and Chrysler Hall host concerts and performances, and the bustling Town Point Park features year-round festivals and outdoor events.
Weather & Climate in Norfolk
Norfolk enjoys a moderate coastal climate with four distinct seasons, featuring mild winters with average lows in the mid-30s and warm, humid summers with temperatures in the upper 80s. The city receives ample sunshine year-round, making outdoor activities enjoyable in spring and fall, though summer heat and humidity may require seniors to plan indoor activities during peak afternoon hours. The coastal location moderates temperature extremes compared to inland Virginia cities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living in Norfolk
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