10 Best Independent Living Communities in Princeton, NJ
Princeton is perfect for anyone who appreciates participating in cultural activities, sightseeing, staying active, and enjoying a peaceful retirement. The city offers sports, clubs, museums, and historic sites such as Princeton University, the fourth-oldest college in the U.S.
Are you looking for an independent living community in Princeton, New Jersey? A Place for Mom partners with 19 facilities in the area, so we can help you find the best arrangements. Four of our partners are stand-alone independent living facilities; two are both independent living and assisted living facilities; and 13 are combination independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best independent living communities within a 25-mile radius of the downtown area. You’ll learn more about the city’s living costs, care costs, financial assistance resources, sites to see, senior activities, transportation options, and more.
Princeton Independent Living Facilities | 364 Reviews
My brother has lived here for a number of years. I am happy to say that he has been very happy and well cared for during his stay. The staff has been very friendly and attentive and there have been many...
The resident feels like home. The staff is professional and provide service with care and love. He has extended the stay to long term
Everyone is very friendly. They always try to fix any small issues that come up, and the staff are very helpful. My Mother in Law is in the memory care unit, and they take wonderful care of her. Actually,...
The staff at CareOne saved my dads life. They really care and are invested in his wellness. It's worth the money to know he is safe and thriving. Room sizes are perfect, they have a lot of events and...
I love the services that I get. Everyone is very kind. I've had nothing but great service I would absolutely recommend for people to come here.
What we like the most about All American is the staff. The staff have been very helpful and the price is reasonable. My aunt always looks good and based on the experience we have had so far we would...
Bear Creek has a home like feeling, not cold and or institutional. It was a good, positive experience. I would recommend Bear Creek.
Very homey atmosphere...just the right amount of resident for an elderly person to get to know... she rates the food very high... I have excellent communication with them...she is happy!
Overall, everything has gotten better since they transitioned their management company to Juniper in March of this year. In the six months that they’ve taken over they’ve already done a survey and have...
My mother passed away at Brandywine last month. The decisions you are facing now about the care of a loved one are difficult and life-changing ones. It is with great gratitude that share my experiences with...
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We had a good tour experience with Rose Hill Assited Living. They were a second floor only full care facility. No access to outside unless family takes them out. They were all very friendly people, but we...
My mother has been here for over a ½ year and loves it! I could go on-and-on about how wonderful this place is. The Activities Dept. is spectacular! And when you live in a place like this, you need an...
I need to place my husband in an assisted living facility as a respite stay as I went away on business. He recently just had a knee replacement and I could not leave him alone, he needed around-the-clock...
Princeton Windrows is CAMELOT! In addition to being so happy here, my children are delighted that I am in such a good place. I especially love the heated pool exercise classes.
Our methodology
How we rank order the Princeton community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Princeton community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of independent living in the Princeton area
- What families are saying about independent living in Princeton
- How people pay for independent living in Princeton
- Understand New Jersey’s laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in Princeton
- Princeton independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Don’t know Princeton very well? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Princeton area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, seniors in Princeton pay an average of $5,185 per month for independent living. This number includes service fees and other fee add-ons.
What services are included in the average cost? Amenities and services that are included in the costs of independent living in Princeton usually consist of the following:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Security
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Social outings and activities
- And, in some cases, access to health care
Please note that the following costs represent average baseline costs without add-on fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Princeton, NJ vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Princeton, NJ vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Princeton vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Princeton, NJ by room type
What families are saying about independent living in Princeton
Recent reviews for independent living in Princeton
The Terraces at Lawrence in Lawrenceville, NJ
Friends Village, Styer Campus in Newtown, PA
The Chelsea at Marlboro in Morganville, NJ
How people pay for independent living in Princeton
Unfortunately, independent living cannot be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance. However, these programs can help seniors pay for medically necessary in-home care at their place of residence.
There are other payment options available for funding independent living. In this section, we’ll discuss how seniors can pay for independent living communities using private funding or veterans benefits.
In independent living communities, seniors can cover monthly expenses using personal assets such as investment returns, Social Security benefits, pensions, and even saving accounts. Additionally, there are several more options available:
There are VA benefits available that can cover independent living expenses. Senior veterans can use their VA Pensions or Aid and Attendance benefits to help pay for medical or nonmedical expenses related to long-term care. To qualify for Aid and Attendance, veterans must be on pension and have ailments connected to their service time. If a veteran served during wartime, they may qualify for additional benefits. Check out the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website for more information.
Several organizations can assist veterans who wish to settle in Princeton. For instance, the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has a local veteran service organization (VSO) for Princeton. There’s also a county-operated VSO, the Disabled American Veterans VSO, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars VSO. These organizations can help veterans and their loved ones navigate VA benefits.
Number of veterans who live in Princeton, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Princeton veterans that are 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Resources for Princeton veterans
New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
101 Eggert Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Phone: 609-530-6892
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Lawrenceville Armory
151 Eggerts Crossing Road, Room 136
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Phone: 609-671-6697
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Mercer County Department of Veteran Services
1440 Parkside Ave.
Ewing, NJ 08638
Phone: 609-989-6120
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans Department of NJ
171 Jersey St., Building 5, 2nd Floor
Trenton, NJ 08611
Phone: 609-396-2885
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of New Jersey
171 Jersey St., Building 5, 2nd Floor
Trenton, NJ 08611
Phone: 609-393-1929
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
New Jersey’s Medicaid program is called NJ FamilyCare. You can apply for NJ FamilyCare by filling out this online form, calling 800-701-0710, or visiting an outreach and enrollment site.
While Medicaid doesn’t cover independent living costs, it can be used toward necessary in-home health care expenses. Individuals can apply through Home and Community-Based Services Waivers.
If you need assistance applying for or renewing Medicaid insurance, the New Jersey Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services or New Jersey Division of Aging Services can help. You can also contact New Jersey’s ombudsman for support in addressing long-term care challenges.
Princeton resident Medicaid resources
NJ FamilyCare
1 Monument Drive
Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: 800-701-0710
Hours: Monday and Thursday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Jersey Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services
7 Quakerbridge Plaza, Room 306
Trenton, NJ 08619
Phone: 609-588-2600
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Jersey Division of Aging Services
3444 Quakerbridge Road
Hamilton Township, NJ 08619
Trenton, NJ 08625-0715
Phone: 877-222-3737
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman
P.O. Box 852
Trenton, NJ 08625-0852
Phone: 877-582-6995
The federal health insurance program Medicare assists seniors who are 65 or older. Although Medicare doesn’t cover independent living costs, it can be used for medicine, doctor visits, and hospital stays.
In order to be eligible, you must be at least 65 years old. Younger individuals can apply if diagnosed with certain illnesses or disabilities. The application period extends from three months before your birthday to three months following the month after your birthday. If you apply outside of this period, you could invoke penalties. [02] Visit the Social Security Administration website to learn more about Medicare and apply online.
There’s also the Living Independently for Elders (LIFE) program through Capital Health, which is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. LIFE supports seniors who want to live at home or with loved ones.
If you aren’t eligible for the New Jersey Care program, you can apply for three Medicare savings programs that pay for specific premiums. There is also the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled program and the Senior Gold program, which support seniors with state funding for medication. You can apply for these New Jersey programs and more by going to the NJSave website.
If you’re not sure what you need to do to apply for Medicare or file a claim, utilize New Jersey’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program. The program’s volunteer counselors can answer questions and assist you. Struggling with long-term care questions or problems? Reach out to the local ombudsman.
Princeton resident Medicare resources
Trenton Social Security Administration Office
635 S. Clinton Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08611
Phone: 866-964-0026
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
New Jersey Division of Aging Services
3444 Quakerbridge Road
Hamilton Township, NJ 08619
Trenton, NJ 08625-0715
Phone: 800-792-8820
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
NJ Medicare Savings Programs
Phone: 800-792-9745
Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled
Phone: 800-792-9745
Senior Gold
Phone: 800-792-9745
State Health Insurance Assistance Program
Phone: 800-792-8820
New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman
P.O. Box 852
Trenton, NJ 08625-0852
Phone: 877-582-6995
Understand New Jersey’s laws and regulations for independent living communities
Independent living communities in New Jersey don’t require a license if they are stand-alone facilities. But if a community also has an assisted living infrastructure, then it must be regulated by the New Jersey Department of Health. You can use our guide to assisted living regulations to learn more about laws regarding this type of care.
The state of New Jersey also protects consumers by regulating continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). It requires those who run a CCRC to register their facility with the State and prepare a disclosure statement that describes their services, fees, financial stability, and other contract terms. Inspections and licensing of such facilities are performed by the New Jersey Department of Health’s Division of Health Facilities.
Independent living communities in New Jersey have certain requirements. Seniors must be able to live independently without assistance and meet the facility’s minimum age for admission, which is typically 55 years old. These communities will provide seniors with meals, organized activities and outings, and transportation. You can read this article to learn more about the different types of housing for seniors and an overview of their requirements.
New Jersey Department of Health
55 N. Willow St.
Trenton, New Jersey, 08625
Phone: 800-367-6543
COVID-19 regulations for Princeton’s independent living communities
New Jersey follows the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and encourages seniors, especially those at risk for severe illness, to take all precautions against COVID-19 and to follow all regulations. Currently, the CDC recommends those with COVID-19 to wear a mask and quarantine, while healthy individuals can choose whether to wear a mask and social distance or not. COVID-19 vaccines are also encouraged and remain free to everyone. You can book an appointment via New Jersey’s vaccine appointment finder website.
Facilities should routinely clean surfaces and communal items with hospital-grade disinfectant. Additionally, they should maintain proper ventilation to ensure COVID-19 doesn’t spread.
You can review New Jersey’s updated COVID-19 guidelines here.
Vaccinations. Free vaccines are available to the public.
Masking. It’s recommended to wear a mask when ill or in contact with vulnerable populations.
Facility cleanliness. Facilities should be regularly cleaned with high-quality disinfectants.
Quarantining. Individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 should self-isolate.
Types of independent living in Princeton
Princeton is the perfect place for seniors who love upscale living, green gardens, beautiful streets, and first-class restaurants and shopping areas. Independent living in Princeton is marked by small-town grace, but there are plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s rich culture and history.
Independent living community options
Independent living communities in this famous college town are more geared toward luxury and upper-middle-class options than budget-friendly ones. Some communities offer private residences, but there are also apartments and retirement villages.
In terms of amenities, most independent living communities in Princeton are pet-friendly and feature salons, barber shops, fitness centers, and movie theater rooms. Depending on the facility you choose, you may also enjoy a swimming pool, arts and craft center, or private patio.
Admission requirements
Senior independent living communities typically have admission requirements. In New Jersey, residents at these facilities must be able to live alone without daily assistance or hands-on care. Additionally, residents will need to be at least 55 years of age.
Facilities with combinations of care
A Place for Mom partners with 19 independent living communities in Princeton. All of these facilities encourage seniors to be as independent as possible. However, some communities also provide additional support. Here is a list of our partners that provide combination care:
- Four are stand-alone independent living facilities
- Two are both independent living and assisted living facilities
- Thirteen are combination independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities.
If seniors stay at one of the 13 partner facilities that offer assisted living and memory care, they can also benefit from in-house memory, incontinence, and diabetic care as well as medication management.
Princeton independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Princeton independent living
Availability of select dining options in Princeton independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Princeton independent living
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Don’t know Princeton very well? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Princeton
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Princeton population
Median annual income for Princeton seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Princeton
New Jersey and Princeton have a number of excellent medical facilities and hospitals.
Penn Medicine Princeton Health
Penn Medicine Princeton Health is a well-known and respected teaching hospital. It’s highly ranked in orthopedics, and it’s also a Level I trauma center.
Capital Health Medical Center — Hopewell
A Level II trauma center, Hopewell is regionally ranked for high performance in neurology. This hospital has also won several awards for its green energy efforts.
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital is a Level I trauma center and New Jersey’s first pediatric trauma center. It has received national acclaim for its ground-breaking methodology for emergency preparedness, and it’s also regionally recognized for its high performance in cancer and gastroenterology.
Transportation for seniors in Princeton
For active seniors who appreciate a good stroll, the good news is that Princeton is very walkable. There are also various public transportation methods available. Here are some potential options for Princeton residents:
- TigerTransit is Princeton University’s own transport system. It’s free and open to the public. There’s boarding assistance available for wheelchair users and individuals who are visually impaired.
- The Princeton Municipal Transit Bus is another transportation option that is free to the public.
- NJ Transit offers discounted prices for seniors; fees are based on how many zones you travel through. You can choose between bike, bus, or train transportation.
- Access Link offers curb-to-curb services for people with disabilities. Individuals just need to apply for eligibility.
- Click-N-Ride provides pick-up and drop-off services. Just call 800-488-1219.
- Crosstown offers door-to-door transportation for seniors who are 65 years old or individuals with disabilities. You must register with Princeton Senior Resources Center at 609-751-9699.
- NJ E-Z Pass gives seniors discounts on New Jersey tolls.
- EZ Ryde4Life is a program that transports older adults via Uber and Lyft. The annual membership fee is $15, and each ride costs $1. However, this cost is waived for participants in the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled program.
- GoGoGrandparent is a 24/7 ridesharing and delivery service for seniors.
- Senior Services of Greater Princeton uses private cars to transport seniors to health- and medical-related appointments. It operates within a 10-mile radius of Princeton.
- Transportation Resources to Aid the Disadvantaged and Elderly is a Mercer County-supported program that provides transportation assistance at no cost to residents who are elderly, low-income, or disabled.
Walk Score analyzes and ranks cities based on distance to amenities, road safety for pedestrians, and ease of movement for pedestrians. The highest possible score is 100.
Walk Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Princeton
When it comes to enjoyable, entertaining activities in Princeton, there is something for everyone. You can look forward to both indoor and outdoor activities that are senior-friendly. A variety of top-notch ventures can make every day memorable.
For instance, Princeton has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture. A popular attraction is the historic campus of Princeton University, where you can enjoy preserved buildings from the past or swing by the Princeton University Art Museum for a beautiful art-based experience.
There are opportunities to get active by participating in a tennis match at the Community Park tennis courts. Seniors can also choose to walk, bike, or hike one of the many recreational trails in the area. Options include the Mountain Lakes Open Space Area, Institute Woods, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, and more. Alternatively, seniors can change up their routines by going on an organized day trip with family and friends. In New Jersey, there’s no shortage of locations to choose from!
If you’re looking for something closer to home, you can see a show at McCarter Theatre or Princeton Garden Theater. Depending on the season, Terhune Orchards also has a variety of available activities, including a pick-your-own produce program and wine tasting evenings.
If you love intelligent conversation, then join the 55PLUS club. They meet twice a month to socialize and listen to lectures on science, politics, the arts, finance, and more. There’s also the Princeton Senior Resource Center, which puts together a monthly calendar of events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sunrise of Marlboro, The Birches at Newtown and Oxford Crossings are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Princeton, NJ. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Princeton is $5,532 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101): Princeton, New Jersey [Data set]. QuickFacts.
Office for Aging Services of the Division for Community Living. (2023). Medicare & Medicaid.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
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