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The Best Assisted Living in Lincoln

Matthew Jones Matthew Jones Writer and Editor

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As the capital of Nebraska and the home of the University of Nebraska, Lincoln is a fun and vibrant city for people of all ages. The city has seen continuous growth over the last few decades and currently boasts a population of 292,627. Roughly 13.5% of the population is aged 65 years or older, which accounts for nearly 40,000 residents.1 Fortunately, Lincoln is home to dozens of senior living options, with plenty of assisted living communities throughout the city.

Finding the right assisted living is not always easy. To help simplify the search, we’ve compiled a list of the best assisted living communities in Lincoln, Nebraska. Continue reading to see which community may be the best fit for you.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Assisted Living in Lincoln

While there are plenty of great options to choose from in Lincoln, your experience could vary substantially from one community to another. To find the best assisted living communities in Lincoln, we conducted 50 hours of research based on the following criteria:

  • Cost: The cost of assisted living is always an important factor to consider. We try to find communities with a good balance between cost and value. We also consider the varied needs and budgets of seniors. For example, some older adults may be willing to pay more for a “luxury” experience, while others might prefer to save money by choosing a community with simpler accommodations or fewer amenities.
  • Available care: Many assisted living communities offer more than just assisted living care. Generally, we focus our attention on communities that offer more than just assisted living, especially if the community can offer a smooth transition between different levels of care.
  • Reviews: Reviews from residents, family members, and staff can provide great insight into the quality of an assisted living community. We consider dozens of reviews per community to evaluate the advantages and potential drawbacks of each.
  • Amenities: When it comes to amenities, we generally value quality over quantity. That said, it’s often a good sign when a community offers a wide variety of amenities. For this reason, we consider both the diversity and overall quality of amenities offered.
  • Location: Most older adults don’t simply stay at an assisted living all day. There are many opportunities to get out and explore the property or the city. Lincoln, Nebraska has dozens of parks, golf courses, museums, shopping centers, and other attractions that are great for seniors. We consider the proximity of these attractions, as well as the overall convenience of the location when choosing the best assisted living communities.
  • Staff size: We focus our attention on communities that offer high staff-to-resident ratios, often with a maximum of eight residents per caregiver.

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  • 1. Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn

    Diverse accommodations with access to parks and golf courses

    STARTING PRICE

    $4,150 per month

    ADDRESS

    7208 Van Dorn St., Lincoln, NE 68506

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn.

    Source Image: Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn.

    Highlights

    • Close to multiple parks and golf courses
    • Four diverse room layouts
    • 300+ monthly activities
    • Pet-friendly property

    Overview

    Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn is an assisted living community located in east Lincoln. The community is close to Holmes Lake Park, Trendwood Park, Firethorn Golf Club, and Wellington Greens Golf Course. This makes Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn a great retirement community for nature lovers, golfers, or anyone who likes to be surrounded by green landscapes.

    Did You Know?

    Did You Know? About two-thirds of adults aged 65 or older will require assisted living or some form of long-term care.2

    If you’re not interested in the nearby attractions, Bailey Pointe still has plenty to offer. This pet-friendly property features modern facilities and beautiful exteriors, including a well-landscaped courtyard. New residents have four room types to choose from – studio, one bedroom, two bedroom (one bath), and two bedroom (two baths). The diverse room layouts can help make it easier to find a room that fits your budget and personal requirements. Many online reviews praise the community for its clean and spacious facilities.

  • 2. The Waterford at Williamsburg

    Pet-friendly assisted living in South Lincoln

    STARTING PRICE

    $4,800 per month

    ADDRESS

    3940 Pine Lake Rd., Lincoln, NE 68516

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance of The Waterford at Williamsburg.

    Source Image: The Waterford at Williamsburg.

    Highlights

    • No minimum stays
    • Close to shopping
    • High staff-to-resident ratio
    • Pet-friendly property

    Overview

    When you first arrive at Aviva Woodlands, the community immediately stands out for its unique and classic architecture. The German-style facility may look like a 19th-century European building from the outside. The inside, however, is completely modern and equipped with all the trappings and conveniences of 21st-century living. The community offers seven room layouts to choose from, ranging from 477-square-foot studios to 1,058-square-foot two-bedroom apartments.

    The Waterford also benefits from a high staff-to-resident ratio. This allows caregivers to have more time with each resident and provide higher-quality care. As an added bonus, The Waterford is a fully pet-friendly property, so you can bring your furry friend with you. Many family members have posted positive feedback online about the extremely smooth and stress-free move-in process.

  • 3. Aviva Woodlands

    Senior living with German-style architecture

    STARTING PRICE

    $4,895 per month

    ADDRESS

    9421 Gable Pines Rd., Lincoln, NE 68520

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at Aviva Woodlands.

    Source Image: Aviva Woodlands.

    Highlights

    • Assisted living and memory care
    • Seven different room layouts
    • Home cooking and fine dining options
    • Classic German exteriors and modern interiors

    Overview

    When you first arrive at Aviva Woodlands, the community immediately stands out for its unique and classic architecture. The German-style facility may look like a 19th-century European building from the outside, but the inside is completely modern and equipped with all the trappings and conveniences of 21st-century living. The community offers seven room layouts to choose from, ranging from 477-square-foot studios to 1,058-square-foot two-bedroom apartments.

    Aviva Woodlands implements a multi-faceted approach to wellness, which encourages everything from healthy sleep to positive psychology. The community puts particular emphasis on food and hydration. The experienced culinary team offers a variety of home-cooked meals, comfort foods, and fine dining options. To help prevent dehydration and promote healthy living, Aviva Woodlands has the Aviva Oasis hydration station equipped with infused water, flavored vitamin water, and foods with high water content. Many online reviewers commend the community’s excellent food and beautiful facilities.

  • 4. Yankee Hill Village

    Affordable assisted living near shopping and restaurants

    STARTING PRICE

    $3,451 per month

    ADDRESS

    8401 S. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68516

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The lobby at Yankee Hill Village.

    Source Image: Yankee Hill Village.

    Highlights

    • Independent living, assisted living, memory care, and respite care
    • Affordable and transparent pricing
    • Beautiful shared courtyards and private patios
    • Dozens of wellness activities

    Overview

    Just a few blocks from the Stone Ridge and South Ridge shopping malls, Yankee Hill Village is an assisted living community in south Lincoln that also offers housing for older adults who don’t need daily support. Owned and operated by Immanuel, a Christian senior living company, Yankee Hill Village provides easy access to worship services and spiritual support. The community implements activities and programs focused on nine categories of wellness – creativity, connections, service, recreation, music, community, wellness, faith, and lifelong learning.

    FYI:

    FYI: Assisted living communities generally admit residents who require assistance with at least two activities of daily living (ADLs).

    One of the best parts of Yankee Hill Village is the quality of care for the price. It is among the most affordable assisted living communities in Lincoln, with transparent monthly fees that include lots of services and amenities. Family members of residents often comment on Yankee Hill Village’s excellent medical care and the regularity of communication with staff.

  • 5. High Plains Senior Living

    Specialized memory care with unique amenities

    STARTING PRICE

    $5,800 per month

    ADDRESS

    5601 S. 84th St., Lincoln, NE 68516

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at High Plains Senior Living.

    Source Image: High Plains Senior Living.

    Highlights

    • Assisted living and memory care
    • Award-winning Alzheimer’s care
    • Dozens of unique amenities
    • SPARKS program to promote engagement

    Overview

    High Plains Senior Living is tucked away in the suburbs of southeastern Lincoln, making it a great option for older adults who prefer a quiet life away from the city center. Though High Plains functions as both an assisted living and memory care facility, it is primarily focused on the latter, which has garnered the community high praise in recent years. In fact, High Plains Senior Living was named one of the best memory care facilities of 2023 by U.S. News & World Report, in part for its science-based SPARKS program for enhanced cognitive performance and social engagement.

    Even if you or a loved one do not think you will need memory care, High Plains Senior Living is an excellent place to live and get support during retirement. The community offers many interesting amenities and activities that you won’t find elsewhere, such as donation drives, manicures and pedicures, pet therapy, and root beer float parties (just to name a few). The community often receives praise from residents and family members for the quality of its memory care.

  • 6. Eastmont

    Multiple lifestyle options close to the Gateway Mall

    STARTING PRICE

    $4,500 per month

    ADDRESS

    6315 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    An outdoor seating area at Eastmont.

    Source Image: Eastmont.

    Highlights

    • Independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehab, skilled nursing, and hospice care
    • Continuing care retirement community
    • Four room layouts
    • Pet-friendly property

    Overview

    Eastmont is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) located across the street from Gateway Mall in the Taylor Park neighborhood of east Lincoln. As a CCRC, Eastmont is equipped to provide housing and care at every stage of life — from independent living to end-of-life care. This can make it easier to transition through different levels of care without having to completely upend your way of life or move to a new community.

    For assisted living residents, Eastmont offers a wide range of services and amenities, including educational programs, fitness classes, and transportation to and from medical appointments. Eastmont is also widely celebrated for its excellent dining options. The community offers restaurant-style lunch and dinner every day, as well as snacks and a continental breakfast at the in-house bistro. Many residents have commented on the strong sense of family and fellowship fostered at Eastmont.

  • 7. The Knolls

    Large rooms with plenty of built-in amenities

    STARTING PRICE

    $6,000 per month

    ADDRESS

    5801 Norman Rd., Lincoln, NE 68512

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at The Knolls.

    Source Image: The Knolls.

    Highlights

    • Independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehab, skilled nursing, adult day care, and hospice care
    • Continuing care retirement community
    • Seven room layouts
    • Guest suites for visitors

    Overview

    The Knolls is a 55+ senior living community that offers on-site continuing care to meet your needs at virtually every stage of life. It is also one of the few assisted living communities in Lincoln that offers adult day care. Regardless of the length of stay or your needs, there is likely a good care option available to you at The Knolls. Eligible residents can even reserve guest suites for visitors.

    What makes The Knolls stand out from other communities in the area is the sheer number of room layouts available. The Knolls offers seven room options, ranging in size from 701 square feet to 1,589 square feet. Every room comes with a spacious walk-in closet and a fully equipped kitchen. Online reviews frequently praise The Knolls for its modern facilities and apartments.

  • 8. The Lexington Assisted Living

    Independence-focused assisted living near Holmes Lake Park

    STARTING PRICE

    $3,500 per month

    ADDRESS

    5550 Pioneers Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68506

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at The Lexington Assisted Living.

    Source Image: The Lexington Assisted Living.

    Highlights

    • Independent living and assisted living
    • Beautiful outdoor courtyard and water features
    • Dozens of wellness, entertainment, and faith-based activities
    • Affordable pricing with no hidden fees

    Overview

    The Lexington Assisted Living provides apartments for older adults who need varying levels of support, along with those who may not need support yet but want to rest easy knowing that help is nearby. Regardless of the level of care you require, The Lexington Assisted Living emphasizes empowering residents and ensuring that everyone retains a strong sense of independence and dignity. While care is always close by, staff at The Lexington allow you to dictate exactly how and when you want help.

    Residents also enjoy modern, recently refurbished facilities and beautiful outdoor amenities, including a courtyard, walking paths, and a small waterfall and koi pond. Staff host dozens of activities for residents, ranging from game nights and happy hour to painting classes and Sunday worship services. Family members often provide positive feedback on the value of care, especially since most services and amenities are rolled into a single, affordable monthly fee.

  • 9. Gateway Vista

    Full continuum of care in central Lincoln

    STARTING PRICE

    $4,600 per month

    ADDRESS

    225 N. 56th St., Lincoln, NE 68504

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at Gateway Vista.

    Source Image: Gateway Vista.

    Highlights

    • Independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, respite care, outpatient therapy, and short-term rehab
    • Close to shopping and medical care
    • Award-winning assisted living
    • Spacious rooms and balconies

    Overview

    Gateway Vista is a full continuum-of-care community located near Gateway Mall and CHI Health St. Elizabeth Hospital. While Gateway Vista offers several different types of care and independent housing for older adults, it is best known for its assisted living. In fact, Gateway Vista and its parent company, NYE Health Services, have been named among the best assisted living providers in the nation.

    Pro Tip:

    Pro Tip: Want to know what to expect in Nebraska? Check out our Nebraska senior living statistics guide to learn more.

    At Gateway Vista, you can access Medicare-certified therapy and 24/7 support for your daily needs. The community also offers daily social and recreational activities, frequent outings in Lincoln, and an on-site pub and beauty shop. Staff and residents often commend Gateway Vista for its positive, cheerful atmosphere.

  • 10. Havelock Manor

    Small residential community in north Lincoln

    STARTING PRICE

    $3,750 per month

    ADDRESS

    6330 Platte Ave., Lincoln, NE 68507

    Speak to a SeniorLiving advisor:

    (855) 241-1699
    The front entrance at Havelock Manor.

    Source Image: Havelock Manor.

    Highlights

    • Assisted living, memory care, short-term rehab, adult day care, and respite care
    • Homey environment
    • On-site pet therapy
    • High staff-to-resident ratio

    Overview

    Located in north Lincoln in the Havelock neighborhood, Havelock Manor is a small, residential assisted living community that is also equipped to provide memory care, short-term rehab, adult day care, and respite care. The small community and residential setting create a “home away from home” feeling, which can make it easier to transition from independent living to life at Havelock Manor. The small number of residents also helps keep the staff-to-resident ratio high.

    While Havelock Manor offers many of the standard services associated with assisted living, it also offers a few unique options, including on-site pet therapy. Podiatrist and massage therapist appointments can be made upon request. Havelock Manor has received stellar reviews online, with many family members and residents commenting on the care and attention of staff.

  • Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn
  • The Waterford at Williamsburg
  • Aviva Woodlands
  • Yankee Hill Village
  • High Plains Senior Living
  • Eastmont
  • The Knolls
  • The Lexington Assisted Living
  • Gateway Vista
  • Havelock Manor

How to Find the Right Assisted Living Community for You

There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing an assisted living community, many of which are unique to you. You can implement these tips and strategies as you evaluate communities:

  • Identify your needs: Every assisted living community is unique; some only offer assisted living care, while others offer a full continuum of care. To pick the right community for you, you’ll need to identify your needs and work with your physician to anticipate future needs. This way, you can find a community that can provide the care you require now and the care you may require in the future.
  • Review your budget: The cost of assisted living can be quite high in Lincoln, so it’s important to review your budget before you make a decision. Remember that Medicare usually doesn’t cover assisted living. Many seniors depend on Social Security benefits, retirement savings, and long-term care insurance.
  • Read reviews: You may find that a community you liked is not as good as you expected, while a community that you were not considering could actually seem like a better option based on feedback from residents and their families.
  • Visit communities: When you visit an assisted living community, you get the opportunity to ask questions and talk with residents, staff, and administrators. Depending on the rules of a given community, you may be able to show up whenever you like or you may be required to schedule a tour. Either way, try to learn as much as you can while you’re there!
  • Check licensing and certifications: While researching a community, check that it has up-to-date licensing and certifications to operate in Nebraska.
  • Trust your gut: If you’ve narrowed down your list to a few options and you’re still stuck, listen to your gut. Your intuition can help you find the right community for you, even when the available options seem similar.

What Is Living in Lincoln Like for Seniors?

Lincoln, Nebraska is generally considered a great city for retirees. It has a strong economy, a peaceful atmosphere, and plenty of attractions for older adults to enjoy. If you’re thinking about settling down in Lincoln, here are a few things to consider first:

  • Climate: Lincoln has somewhat extreme weather patterns, with hot and humid summers and cold and wet winters. While Lincoln does not get a lot of annual snowfall, it sees a few inches of snow in most winters. The long, cold winters may be a deterrent for seniors who want to enjoy warmer weather.
  • Health care: Lincoln has one of the best health care systems in Nebraska, with dozens of quality hospitals and clinics throughout the city. The Nebraska Medical Center is often lauded as one of the top hospitals in the country.
  • Cost of living: Lincoln’s relatively low cost of living is a major reason why many older adults choose the city for retirement. Housing is roughly 20 percent cheaper than the national average, while utilities are about 15 percent cheaper.
  • Walkability: Downtown Lincoln is relatively walkable, but most senior living communities are located well outside the city center, which could make it difficult for seniors to walk from one place to another. Lincoln does have a good public bus system that can help older adults get around.
  • Activities: Lincoln has a lot for older adults to enjoy, including college sports, public parks, museums, theaters, and golf courses.
  • Safety: While Lincoln has a lower crime rate than the national average, it has a particularly high rate of property crime compared to other cities in the region.

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Lincoln, Nebraska?

According to Genworth, the estimated median cost of an assisted living community in Lincoln is $6,050 per month in 2024. It’s a fair bit steeper than the national median average of $5,511 per month.3

Though the median cost of assisted living is relatively high in Lincoln, you can see from our list that there are many affordable options. The cost can vary widely based on the type of care you require. Memory care, for example, typically costs far more than assisted living care. Alternatively, you may find communities that offer customizable plans and affordable starting rates.

Citations
  1. United States Census Bureau. (2022). QuickFacts – Lincoln city, Nebraska.

  2. Administration for Community Living. (2020). How Much Care Will You Need?

  3. Genworth. (2022). Cost of Care Survey.

Written By:
Matthew Jones
Writer and Editor
Read About Our Panel of Experts
Matthew is a freelance writer who has written on a wide range of topics, from personal finance to nutrition. Over the past three years, Matthew has worked extensively on articles and guides for seniors related to Medicare, insurance, and finance…. Learn More About Matthew Jones
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