CCRC vs Standalone Assisted Living
A CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care/nursing on one campus. Standalone assisted living is a single-level community. CCRCs cost more upfront but guarantee future care without moving.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| CCRC | Standalone Assisted Living | |
|---|---|---|
| Care Levels | Independent + Assisted + Memory + Nursing | Assisted living only (may have memory care) |
| Entrance Fee | $100,000-$500,000+ | Community fee: $1,500-$5,000 |
| Monthly Fee | $3,000-$6,000/month | $4,195/month average |
| Transitions | Move within same campus as needs change | May need to find a new facility |
| Contract Types | Life care, modified, fee-for-service | Month-to-month or annual lease |
| Refundable Fee | Some contracts refund 50-90% | N/A |
| Avg Community Size | 200-500+ residents | 20-200 residents |
Which Is Right for Your Family?
Choose CCRC if...
- Couples where one partner is healthy and the other needs care
- Seniors who want guaranteed care for life without ever moving
- Those who can afford a significant entrance fee
Choose Standalone Assisted Living if...
- Seniors who need assisted living now and want simpler pricing
- Those who prefer not to pay a large entrance fee
- Families looking for the most affordable monthly option
Pros and Cons
CCRC
Pros
- +Never move again — all care levels on one campus
- +Predictable future costs
- +Often the most amenity-rich option
- +Couples can stay together even with different needs
Cons
- -Very large entrance fee
- -Complex contracts — need attorney review
- -Higher monthly fees
- -Money is at risk if community has financial trouble
Standalone Assisted Living
Pros
- +No large upfront cost
- +Simpler pricing structure
- +More options to choose from
- +Easier to switch communities
Cons
- -May need to move if needs increase
- -No guaranteed future care
- -Each transition is disruptive
What This Means in Arizona
Arizona has about a dozen CCRCs, primarily in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and the East Valley. Entrance fees range from $150,000 to $500,000+. For families with the financial resources, a CCRC provides peace of mind that care is guaranteed for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CCRC entrance fees refundable?
It depends on the contract type. Life care contracts may refund 0-90% depending on terms. Modified and fee-for-service contracts typically have higher refund rates. Always have an elder law attorney review the contract before signing.
What happens if a CCRC goes bankrupt?
This is rare but has happened. Arizona does require CCRCs to maintain financial reserves. Check the community's financial statements, occupancy rates, and accreditation status. An accredited CCRC has undergone financial review.
Can I use my home sale to pay the entrance fee?
Yes — this is the most common approach. Many CCRCs will even hold a spot while you sell your home. Some offer bridge loan programs to cover the gap between move-in and home sale.
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Not Sure Which Option Is Right?
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