Avamere operates independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities across multiple states

Avamere is a for-profit senior living company that runs communities in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California. They offer three main types of housing: independent living (for seniors who want community but manage their own daily care), assisted living (for those who need help with tasks like bathing or medication), and memory care (specialized units for people with Alzheimer's or other dementias). Each community is separately owned and operated, so the specific services, costs, and quality can vary significantly from one location to another.

Avamere communities are not government-run or subsidized programs. They are private-pay residences, meaning you pay out of pocket or use long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, or Medicaid (where accepted). The company does not manage a central waiting list or process process — you contact individual communities directly to learn about current openings and costs.

Key Takeaways

  • Avamere runs independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities in four western states, but each location operates independently with different pricing and services.
  • These are private-pay communities, so you will need to cover costs yourself, through insurance, or through Medicaid if the specific community accepts it.
  • Monthly costs vary widely by location and level of care — you must contact the community directly to learn current pricing and what is included.
  • Each community has its own admission process and requirements; there is no central process or waiting list managed by Avamere corporate.
  • Before visiting or committing, ask about staffing ratios, dining options, activities, and what happens if you run out of money or need a higher level of care.

How to find an Avamere community near you

Avamere's website lists all their communities by state. You can search by location and filter by the type of care (independent, assisted, or memory care). Once you identify a community in your area, you contact that location directly — by phone, email, or in-person visit — to ask about current openings, pricing, and what the move-in process involves.

Because each community is independently operated, the staff at one location may not have detailed information about another. If you are considering multiple Avamere communities, plan to reach out to each one separately. Some communities may have waiting lists, especially for memory care units, so asking about timeline expectations is important.

What costs typically include and what they do not

Avamere communities charge a monthly fee that usually covers housing, meals, utilities, and basic activities. However, the exact services bundled into that fee differ by community and level of care. Independent living typically costs less than assisted living, which costs less than memory care. Additional services — such as transportation, specialized therapies, or extra care hours — often cost more and are billed separately.

You should ask each community for a detailed fee schedule before moving in. Request a written list of what the monthly fee covers, what costs extra, and whether there are entrance fees or deposits. Some communities charge a non-refundable entrance fee; others do not. Understanding these details upfront prevents surprises later.

Questions to ask before you move in

Visit the community in person if possible, and bring a list of questions. Ask about staffing levels — specifically, how many care staff work per resident during day and night shifts. Ask about the dining program: how many meals are served, whether special diets are accommodated, and whether residents can eat in their rooms if needed. Ask what activities and outings are offered and whether they are included in the monthly fee.

Also ask what happens if you need a higher level of care than your current unit provides. Some communities can move you to a different unit within the same building; others cannot. Ask about the process for leaving — whether there is a notice period, and what happens to any entrance fee you paid. Ask whether the community accepts Medicaid, and if so, at what point in your stay (some accept it from the start; others only after you have paid privately for a certain period).

Understanding payment options

Most Avamere communities are private-pay, meaning you cover the full cost yourself. However, some communities accept Medicaid for assisted living or memory care residents, though policies vary. If you think you may eventually need Medicaid coverage, ask the community whether they accept it and under what conditions — for example, whether you must be a resident for a minimum time before switching to Medicaid coverage.

Long-term care insurance, if you have it, may cover part or all of the cost at an Avamere community. Check your policy or contact your insurance company to confirm. Some veterans may be may be able to access for Aid and Attendance benefits, which can help pay for assisted living or memory care. Contact your local Veterans Affairs office to learn whether you may have access to.

What to do if you have concerns about a community

If you experience problems at an Avamere community — such as poor care, safety issues, or billing disputes — you can file a complaint with your state's health department or long-term care ombudsman. Each state has an ombudsman office that investigates complaints about nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The ombudsman can also help you understand your rights as a resident.

Before moving in, ask the community for contact information for the state ombudsman and the health department's complaint process. Keep records of any concerns, including dates, times, and names of staff involved. If you need legal help, contact your local Area Agency on Aging, which can refer you to legal aid or elder law attorneys.

Alternatives if Avamere is not the right fit

If Avamere communities do not meet your needs or budget, other options exist. Some seniors live in their own homes with in-home care services. Others move to non-profit senior living communities, which sometimes offer more financial flexibility or different care models. Still others live with family members or explore co-housing arrangements with other seniors.

Your local Area Agency on Aging can help you explore all available options in your area, including subsidized housing programs, home care services, and other senior communities. They can also help you understand the costs and benefits of each option so you can make a decision that fits your health needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live at an Avamere community?

Costs vary significantly by location, level of care, and what services are included. Independent living is typically less expensive than assisted living or memory care. You must contact the specific community you are interested in to learn their current monthly fees, any entrance fees, and what is covered. Costs may range from a few thousand dollars per month to much more, depending on the community and your location.

Can I move to a different level of care if my health changes?

Some Avamere communities can move you to a different unit within the same building if you need more care. Others cannot. Ask the community directly whether they offer this option and what the process and costs would be. If they cannot accommodate a higher level of care, ask whether they can help you move to another facility.

Does Avamere accept Medicaid?

Some Avamere communities accept Medicaid for assisted living or memory care, but not all do, and policies vary by location. Contact the specific community to ask whether they accept Medicaid and under what conditions. Some communities require you to pay privately for a certain period before you can switch to Medicaid coverage.

What if I want to leave or move to a different community?

Each community has its own policies about notice periods and what happens to any entrance fee you paid. Ask about this before you move in and request the policy in writing. Some entrance fees are refundable; others are not. Understand the terms so you know what to expect if your situation changes.

How do I file a complaint if I have concerns about care?

You can file a complaint with your state's health department or long-term care ombudsman. The ombudsman office investigates complaints about assisted living and memory care facilities and can help you understand your rights. Ask the community for the ombudsman's contact information, or search online for your state's ombudsman office.