Cost of Assisted Living in Tucson, Arizona

Page Reviewed / Updated - April 20, 2024

This guide offers beneficial information for seniors and caregivers. It examines the cost of senior care in Tucson, covers financial assistance programs available to seniors in the area, and includes housing options that are great for seniors on a fixed income. Refer to our statewide guide for in-depth information about senior care and help with expenses. 

The Cost of Senior Living and Care in Tucson

In Tucson, senior care is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Arizona. According to the Genworth 2018 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost of adult day care is especially affordable, having the second lowest average in the state.

How much does Assisted Living Cost in Tucson?

Assisted living in Tucson costs an average of $4,044 a month, which is marginally higher than the median cost for Arizona as a whole. Yuma averages $175 less a month, while Lake Havasu City can be even cheaper, coming in at only $3,500 a month. The two other major cities in the state average between $3,850 and $5,098 a month.   

How much does Home Care Cost in Tucson?

The cost of home care in Tucson averages $4,576 a month, assuming 44 hours of care per week at an average cost per hour of $24.00. That’s $238 higher than the state average of $4,338.

Compared to other major cities in the state, Tucson is more affordable than Phoenix, which averages about $190 more a month, while Yuma is less expensive than Tucson with a monthly average of $3,718. Some of the least expensive average costs for home care in the state is in Sierra Vista and Yuma at $3,718 a month.

How much does Adult Day Care Cost in Tucson?

Adult day health care costs an average of $1,733 a month, which is $271 cheaper than the state average of $2,004. This is the second least expensive monthly average among the larger cities in the state. Phoenix averages $2,167 a month, and the least expensive is Yuma at $1,625 a month.

How much does Nursing Home Costs in Tucson?

The cost of nursing home care in Tucson is slightly less expensive when compared with the rest of the state. At $6,388 a month for a semi-private room, it’s $106 less than the state average of $6,494. When compared to the other major cities in the state, Tucson is $152 cheaper than Phoenix, over $1,400 less than Flagstaff, and Yuma is the least expensive with a monthly average of $6,114.

Financial Assistance Programs in Tucson

Statewide Medicaid Program

Medicaid is referred to as the Arizona Health Care Cost Contaianment System (AHCCCS). Eligible seniors in need of long-term care will receive covered services for assisted living, adult day care, attendant care, home health, and more. These services, along with medical services, are paid for through a separate division called the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS).

ALTCS is available to single applicants with a gross monthly income below $2,313 in 2019, and assets for single individuals must not exceed $2,000. Seniors who are married can refer to the ALTCS Policies on Community Spouse PDF document for an in-depth explanation of income guidelines.

Since ALTCS is a part of AHCCCS it is an entitlement, which means those who qualify won’t be placed on a waiting list. To apply, call the Tucson ALTCS office at (520) 205-8600 or (800) 824-2656. 

Other Financial Assistance Programs

Aid and Attendance or Housebound Allowance

Seniors who served in the military or their surviving spouses may be able to receive extra money to help with living expenses. For eligibility information, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps low-income seniors with their energy bills or utility deposits. Assistance is available once every 12 months on a first-come, first-serve basis. Priority is given to adults 60 or older, individuals with a disability that could be life threatening if their home is too hot or cold, and anyone with a young child in the home. Learn more about this program as well as income requirements at the Arizona Department of Economic Security website.

Non-Medical Home and Community Based Services (NMHCBS)

Tucson seniors 60 or older who don’t qualify for ALTCS may be able to get help through Arizona’s NMHCBS. Those eligible receive the following services at no cost:

• Adult day care

• Adult health care

• Home delivered meals

• Meals at a senior center

• A home health aide

• Housekeeping

• Personal care

• Respite care

• Transportation

• A visiting nurse

Although there are no income or asset limits, applicants must be functionally impaired and need help with Activity of Daily Living. For additional information, consult our NMHCBS guide.

More Senior Living Resources in Tucson