The Armed Forces Retirement Home charges a monthly fee based on your income and the level of care you need

The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) operates two residential campuses — one in Washington, D.C., and one in Gulfport, Mississippi. Both charge monthly fees that vary depending on your financial situation and the type of housing and services you receive. Unlike many private retirement communities, AFRH does not have a large upfront entrance fee. Instead, you pay month to month based on what you actually use.

The monthly cost covers your room, meals, utilities, and access to on-site medical and social services. The exact amount depends on three things: your income level, whether you live independently or need assisted living, and which campus you choose. AFRH uses a sliding scale, meaning lower-income residents pay less than higher-income residents for the same services.

Key Takeaways

  • AFRH charges monthly fees on a sliding scale based on your income, not a fixed price that applies to everyone.
  • The two campuses — Washington, D.C., and Gulfport, Mississippi — may have different fee structures and availability.
  • Your monthly payment covers housing, meals, utilities, and basic health services, with no separate entrance fee required.
  • You will need to provide financial documentation during the admission process so AFRH can determine your appropriate fee level.
  • Costs vary by the level of care you need, from independent living to assisted living with more frequent medical support.

How the sliding scale works

AFRH uses your income to set your monthly fee. Residents with lower incomes pay a lower monthly amount, while those with higher incomes pay more. This system is designed so that cost does not prevent may be able to access military retirees and veterans from moving in. You will be asked to provide tax returns, Social Security statements, and other income documentation during the admission review process.

The sliding scale applies to both independent living and assisted living residents. If your financial situation changes after you move in — for example, if your income drops or increases — you can request a fee review. AFRH staff can adjust your monthly payment to reflect your current circumstances.

What is included in your monthly fee

Your monthly payment covers a private or semi-private room, three meals a day in the dining facility, utilities (heat, water, electricity), housekeeping services, and laundry. You also have access to on-site recreational programs, fitness facilities, and social activities. Basic health services — including nursing care, medication management, and coordination with outside doctors — are included as well.

If you need assisted living services, such as help with bathing, dressing, or mobility, those are part of your monthly fee rather than an add-on charge. Specialized medical care, such as dialysis or physical therapy, may be provided on-site or coordinated with outside providers. Dental, vision, and hearing services are typically available through referral.

Costs that are not included

Your monthly fee does not cover personal items such as clothing, toiletries, or entertainment subscriptions. Medications are usually covered if they are prescribed by the on-site medical staff, but some specialty drugs or over-the-counter items may be your responsibility. Telephone, cable, or internet service in your room is typically not included, though the facility may offer communal internet access.

If you need specialized medical care beyond what AFRH provides — such as off-campus surgery, specialist appointments, or long-term hospitalization — those costs are your responsibility or covered by your Medicare or private insurance. Transportation to outside medical appointments may be available through the facility, but you should confirm this during your admission process.

Differences between the two campuses

The Washington, D.C., campus and the Gulfport, Mississippi, campus may have slightly different fee structures and amenities. The D.C. location is in the nation's capital and may offer different recreational and cultural opportunities. The Gulfport campus is in a coastal setting with its own character and services. Both are fully accredited and meet the same federal standards for care.

Availability and wait times can differ between the two locations. Some residents choose based on geography, climate preference, or proximity to family. During your initial inquiry, you can ask about the current fee schedule and availability at each campus so you can compare.

How to find out your specific monthly cost

AFRH does not publish a single monthly fee because the amount depends on your individual income. To learn what you would pay, you need to contact the admissions office directly. You can reach the Washington, D.C., campus at 202-730-3000 and the Gulfport campus at 228-897-1615. Staff can give you a general range based on your income level and answer questions about what services are included.

During the formal admission process, you will submit financial documents, and AFRH will calculate your exact monthly fee. This calculation happens before you move in, so you will know the cost before you commit. If the fee is higher than you expected, you can discuss your situation with admissions staff to understand the breakdown and explore whether any adjustments are possible.

Financial planning and long-term affordability

Because AFRH uses a sliding scale, your monthly cost may change if your income changes. If you receive a pension increase, your fee may go up. If your income decreases, you can request a review to lower your fee. This flexibility makes AFRH more affordable for many military retirees than private retirement communities with fixed costs.

Some residents combine AFRH with other benefits — such as VA health care, Medicare, or Medicaid — to manage their overall health and housing costs. If you are considering AFRH, it is worth reviewing your full financial picture, including pensions, Social Security, investments, and any other income sources. The admissions staff can help you understand how your specific situation affects your monthly fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee or deposit to move into AFRH?

No. AFRH does not charge an upfront entrance fee or security deposit. You pay only the monthly fee based on your income and the services you use. This is one way AFRH differs from many private retirement communities.

What happens to my monthly fee if my income changes?

You can request a fee review if your income increases or decreases. AFRH will recalculate your monthly payment based on your updated financial information. This process typically takes a few weeks, and your new fee will be applied going forward.

Are there any hidden costs I should know about?

The main costs not included in your monthly fee are personal items, specialty medications, and off-campus medical care. Most routine health services, meals, housing, and activities are covered. Ask the admissions office for a detailed list of what is and is not included before you move in.

Can I afford AFRH if I have a low military pension?

AFRH's sliding scale is designed to make housing affordable for military retirees at all income levels. Even residents with modest pensions can often move in at a manageable monthly cost. Contact admissions to discuss your specific income and get an estimate of what you would pay.

Do both campuses charge the same monthly fee?

The fee structure is similar at both locations, but there may be minor differences in amenities or services that affect cost. Contact each campus directly to compare their current fees and what is included at each location.