Cost of Assisted Living in Tempe, AZ
The average cost of assisted living in Tempe is $4,100/month, with options ranging from $3,000 to $6,200 depending on room type and level of care. Tempe assisted living costs average $400/month less than the national average, offering urban convenience at a below-average price.
Tempe Assisted Living Cost by Room Type
The biggest factor in monthly cost is the type of room. Here's what to expect in Tempe for 2026:
| Room Type | Monthly |
|---|---|
| Shared Room | $3,000 |
| Private Studio | $3,700 |
| One Bedroom | $4,400 |
| Two Bedroom / Suite | $5,600 |
| Memory Care | $5,300 |
Costs are estimates based on 2026 market data. Actual prices vary by facility, amenities, and care level.
How Tempe Compares to Nearby Cities
See how assisted living costs in Tempe stack up against other Phoenix metro cities.
What Affects the Cost in Tempe?
- 1Level of care needed — higher acuity means higher monthly cost
- 2Room type and size — studios are most common in Tempe
- 3Urban location premium — walkable areas near Mill Ave cost more
- 4Proximity to ASU campus and Tempe Town Lake adds value
- 5Light rail access — facilities near stations charge slightly more
- 6Smaller community footprint means fewer large-campus options
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Tempe
Most families use a combination of funding sources. Here are the options available to Tempe residents:
Private Pay
Personal savings, retirement funds, or family contributions
Most common — covers 100% of costs
ALTCS (Arizona Medicaid)
Arizona's long-term care Medicaid program for qualifying residents
Accepted at select Tempe facilities
Veterans Benefits (Aid & Attendance)
VA pension benefit for wartime veterans or surviving spouses
Up to $2,431/mo for veterans, $1,318/mo for surviving spouses
Long-Term Care Insurance
Private insurance policies purchased before needing care
Covers partial or full cost depending on policy
Life Insurance Conversion
Convert an existing life insurance policy into care funding
Can unlock 50-75% of policy face value
Home Equity (Reverse Mortgage)
Use home equity to fund care while keeping the home
Must be 62+ and own home; funds vary by equity
5 Ways to Reduce Assisted Living Costs
Choose a shared room
Shared rooms in Tempe can save $500-$1,200/month compared to private rooms.
Apply for ALTCS early
Arizona's Medicaid program takes 45-90 days to process. Start the application before you need care.
Ask about move-in specials
Many facilities offer the first month free or reduced community fees for new residents.
Consider smaller group homes
Licensed group homes with 10-15 residents often cost 20-30% less than large communities.
Get a free cost assessment
Our advisors know the actual (not listed) prices at every facility and can find options in your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does assisted living cost in Tempe?
The average cost of assisted living in Tempe is $4,100 per month in 2026. Costs range from $3,000 for shared rooms to $6,200 for premium private suites. Memory care averages $5,300/month.
Does Medicare pay for assisted living in Tempe?
No, Medicare does not cover assisted living. However, Arizona's ALTCS (Medicaid) program does cover assisted living for qualifying residents. Other options include VA benefits, long-term care insurance, and life insurance conversion.
What is included in the monthly cost?
Most assisted living facilities in Tempe include room and board, three meals daily, medication management, personal care assistance, housekeeping, laundry, activities, and 24/7 emergency response. Some communities charge extra for higher levels of care or specialized services.
Is Tempe expensive compared to other cities?
Tempe assisted living costs average $400/month less than the national average, offering urban convenience at a below-average price. The national average for assisted living is $4,500/month.
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Tempe Cost Summary
- Average Cost
- $4,100/mo
- Low End
- $3,000/mo
- High End
- $6,200/mo
- Memory Care
- $5,300/mo
- National Avg
- $4,500/mo
- Facilities
- 15+
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Our advisor knows the actual pricing at every facility in Tempe — not just the listed rates. Tell us your budget and we'll find the best match.