Cost of Assisted Living in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Page Reviewed / Updated - April 19, 2024

This guide provides an overview of the cost of senior care in Albuquerque, including financial assistance programs for seniors in the area and information about resident eligibility for living in low-income senior apartments. For broader information about costs and financial assistance available in the rest of the state, read our guide to paying for senior care in New Mexico. 

The Cost of Senior Living and Care in Albuquerque

In Albuquerque, senior care is more expensive than it is in other major cities in New Mexico. The Genworth 2018 Cost of Care Survey shows that the average monthly cost of adult day care matches the state average in Albuquerque, but other types of care are more expensive here.

How much does Assisted Living Cost in Albuquerque?

Assisted living in Albuquerque costs about $5,100 a month, which is much higher than the median cost for the entire state. Nearby, Santa Fe averages the same per month, while more remote areas like Farmington in the north and Las Cruces in the south are much cheaper, coming in at only $3,600 and $3,919, respectively.

The cost of assisted living in the rest of the state is $3,634, underscoring Albuquerque's standing as one of the most expensive areas in New Mexico.

How much does Home Care Cost in Albuquerque?

The cost of home care in Albuquerque averages $4,191 a month. Homemaker services average $22 an hour, and home health aides average $22.48 an hour. 

Compared to other major New Mexico cities, Albuquerque is more expensive for home care, while Las Cruces and Farmington average $600 less per month. When compared to the average for the rest of the state at $3,304, Albuquerque's average is nearly $900 higher.

How much does Adult Day Care Cost in Albuquerque?

Adult day care costs an average of $2,217 a month, which matches the state average for this category. In the north, the Farmington area averages $3,293 for these imperative day-to-day services, while the southern Las Cruces area has a median monthly cost of $1,625 for the same job. Adult day care is not available in Santa Fe. Excluding Albuquerque, the rest of the state averages $1,213 for adult day care, showing that the city is pricier than other cities in the state for adult day care services.

How much does Nursing Home Costs in Albuquerque?

The cost of nursing home care in Albuquerque is more expensive when compared with the rest of New Mexico. At $7,609 a month for a semi-private room, it’s much pricier than the state average of $7,285, and those of the other major cities in the state, which range from about $6,500 to $7,500 a month.

Financial Assistance Programs in Albuquerque

Medicaid Program in Albuquerque

In Albuquerque, the Medicaid program is known as Centennial Care. This program provides nursing home care and some personal care assistance. Previously, the state offered two Medicaid Waiver programs, the CoLTS C Waiver and the Mi Via Waiver, but similar programs are now available through Centennial Care's Community Benefit option.

Community Benefit provides long-term care services so that seniors can age in place instead of moving to a nursing home. The Self-Directed Community Benefit (SDCB) option lets eligible seniors choose their care provider, which can be a family member.

Eligibility hinges on functional limitations and income and asset restrictions. The net monthly income maximum is $2,250, which equates to 300 percent of the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). Married applicants can make up to $4,500 per month, with the individual limit applying to each. The asset limit is $2,000 for a single senior and $3,000 for married couples. Asset exemptions include a family home valued under $858,000, automobile, personal belongings, and household furniture.

Applicants need to qualify for Medicaid, after which they can apply for Centennial Care online or in-person. To do so, create a login on the state’s health care web portal, Yes New Mexico, or call the customer service hotline at the state’s Medicaid Call Center at (888) 997-2583.  Local HSD offices are another option. 

Other Financial Assistance Programs

New Mexico Older Americans Act

New Mexico Older Americans Act Services offers a variety of in-home services and supports to help elderly NM residents remain living at home, such as meals, help with household chores, and adult day care. To be eligible, candidates must be at least 60 years old and be residents of New Mexico. There are no limits on participants’ income or assets. Applications can be filed at an Area Agency on Aging. Click here for more information.

New Mexico RX Program

The New Mexico MEDBANK RX Program provides ongoing and emergency financial assistance for New Mexico residents of any age without insurance or adequate insurance coverage. Participants must be low-to-middle-income and have a long-term medical condition requiring medication. An Area on Aging office can help with application guidance. For more information, click here.

PACE

PACE Programs offer an alternate Medicare program covering seniors’ medical needs and some personal care needs. Long-term services are covered by a comprehensive team that coordinates care for seniors who are 55 or older, living in a PACE service area, eligible for nursing home care, and can safely live in the community. There is a cap on financing for the program so that participants can take full advantage of the care they need. For additional information, visit PACE.

More Senior Living Resources in Albuquerque