Assisted Living in Minnesota (MN)

Costs of Assisted Living in Minnesota

The cost for Assisted Living Care in Minnesota state averages almost $3,600 per month, (close to $38,400 a year). The costs vary greatly from city to city - for example, Assisted Living in St. Cloud, Minnesota averages $2,600 monthly, while those living in Minneapolis pay, on average, almost $4,000 per month. Depending on the type of facility and the residents living there, the expenses may be higher. For example, an Assisted Living Facility that predominately cares for dementia residents will likely be more expensive due to a higher staff to patient ratio, more staff training, and more security needed to keep the residents safe.

The U.S. average cost for Assisted Living is $3,293 per month, and Minnesota's assisted living is comparable to that. Nursing homes in Minnesota are much more expensive than assisted living facilities - with semi-private rooms costing over $88,000 per year, and a private room carrying a cost of over $97,000 annually.

Adult Day Health Care in Minnesota averages $1,700 per month or around $21,000 per year. A Home Health Aide in Minnesota costs, on average $5,000 a month, over $60,000 annually. A Home Health Aid is almost $21,000 more expensive than the cost of an Assisted Living Facility in Minnesota. Furthermore, the cost of a Home Health Aide is based on a 44-hour-week, whereas Assisted Living provides 24-hour care. To receive comparable care at home you would need 3.8 Home Health Aides per week which would cost around $18,837 every month. It is estimated that by the year 2030, Assisted Living in Minnesota will cost almost $58,000 per year – an increase of around $20,000.

Within Minnesota itself, the costs of Assisted Living Care vary as well, for example, these are the latest approximate costs of a monthly stay in an Assisted Living Facility in Minnesota:

• St. Cloud Minnesota - $2,640;
• Rochester, Minnesota - $2,883;
• Mankato, Minnesota - $3,000
• Duluth, Minnesota - $3,800;
• Minneapolis, Minnesota - $3,900;

The state of Minnesota is a state in the Midwestern and Northern part of the United States. Due to the large number of lakes in the state, Minnesota is often called the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." Minnesota is the 21st most populated state in America with an estimated 5.5 million residents. It has an area of 86,936 square miles and is the 12th largest state in the nation. The state density is 30th in the nation with 68.9 people per square mile; however almost 60% of Minnesotans live in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area. With the 36th highest percentage of senior citizens at 14.25% of the total population, is Minnesota a good choice for a senior looking to retire?

Who pays for Assisted Living Care in Minnesota?

Typically, the costs associated with Assisted Living care costs are paid for by Minnesota elderly or their loved ones. The state of Minnesota has four waiver programs for Home and Community Based Services (HBCS) and Long Term Care Facility Services. These programs include waiver programs for:

• Brain Injury (BI) Waiver – a waiver program that is for people with a brain injury that allows them to stay in the community or at home and who, without assistance, would require care in a specialized nursing facility or a neurobehavioral hospital;
• Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver – a waiver program for those who are chronically ill or otherwise medically fragile and would, with community help, require a level of care usually provided in a hospital;
• Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver – a waiver program for those who need services as an alternative to institutionalization and who would otherwise require nursing home level care; and
• Developmental Disabilities Waiver – a waiver program that helps people who would, without these services provided at home or in the community, need the level of care typically provided by an Intermediate Care Facility For Persons with Developmental Disabilities (ICF/DD.)

Currently, the state of Minnesota has two waiver programs for seniors that help pay for the costs of an assisted living facility:

• Elderly Waiver (EW) – this is a federal Medicaid waiver program for those aged 65 and over who are eligible for Medical Assistance, need nursing-home level care, and choose to live in the community. Elderly Waiver clients can choose to receive waiver services and medical assistance services through a managed care organization – either Minnesota Senior Care Plus (MSC+) or Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO); and
• Alternative Care (AC) waiver – this program provides home and community-based services to Michigan residents who need nursing home level care but would rather live in the community. It is similar to the Elderly Waiver and provides many of the same services, but this waiver is for those people with low income who are not eligible for Medical Assistance.

Helpful State Programs for Seniors & Senior Living in Minnesota

Minnesota has quite a few programs to help seniors, whether they are low-income or not. Many of these programs are coordinated by the Minnesota Area Agencies on Aging – of which there are seven across the state. There is also an Indian Elder Desk which helps Minnesota’s elder Indians on the state’s 11 reservations and in the urban areas. This is particularly important as 36% of American Indian Elders live in poverty and, since Indian elders are members of a sovereign nation their health care is independent. There is only one tribally-operated extended care-facility in the state of Minnesota. The other agency that Minnesota senior citizens need to know is that of their local Minnesota Ombudsman. The job of an Ombudsman is to protect the rights of Minnesota residents in long-term care facilities.

Pros and Cons of Senior Living in Minnesota

Here are some things to consider for seniors when choosing where to retire in Minnesota:

• Work – although the dream is to not work during your retirement years, it is at time necessary. The state of Minnesota has job opportunities for those older residents that wish to continue to work as well as recreation opportunities for those seniors who choose to spend their time outdoors;
• Recreation and Outdoorsy Activities – the state has four definite seasons and, with a slogan as the "Land of 10,000 lakes" there are plenty of water opportunities available. It is close to Lake Superior and ice fishing is a popular sport in the winter time. Most of the cities in Minnesota have parks that are attractive and well-maintained as well as biking and hiking trails for seniors to enjoy in the urban areas;
• Sports – the state is known for its many sport teams: the Minnesota Vikings NFL team, the Timberwolves in the NBA, the Minnesota Wild in the NHL, the Minnesota Twins in the MLB and there is also the WNBA Lynx, not to mention the many college, high school and non-professional teams in the state;
• Natural beauty – Minnesota has large islands, at least 10,000 lakes, 72 state parks and recreation areas and 58 state forests that encompass about 4 million acres. There are over 5 million acres in the Chippewa and Superior national forests, and the Superior National Forest has the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wildness at a size of over one million acres and 1,000 lakes. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) is a 72-mile long course that runs along the Mississippi River and through the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metropolitan Area;
• Education – this state is known for its many colleges and universities as well as excellent senior healthcare that is often associated with universities. There are 32 state-supported schools of higher learning and more than 20 private ones. The University of Minnesota has five campuses alone and many of them offer events that are open to the public. These schools often allow seniors to take classes at a reduced rate as well;
• Taxes – Minnesota has a high tax rate and is not considered to be tax-friendly to senior citizens;
• Minnesota does not have any certified retired community programs, but is home to at least two active adult communities. The state does have almost 2000 assisted living communities and other senior care facilities though.

Financial Information for Minnesota Seniors

Minnesota has one of the highest state income taxes in the nation, ranging from 5.35% to 9.85% - the 4th highest nation. Furthermore, property and sales taxes also rank in the top 20 of all states.

For single filers, the tax rates are as follows:

• For those making between $0-$25,180 – 5.35%;
• For those making between $25,180-$82,740 – 7.05%;
• For those making between $82,740-$155.650 – 7.85%; and
• For those who make over $155,650 – 9.85%.

Those who are married and file jointly are taxed at the following rates:

• If the couple’s income is between $0-$36,820 – 5.35%;
• If the income is between $36,820-$146,270 – 7.05%;
• If the income is between $146,270-$259,420 – 7.85%; and
• If the income is greater than $259,420 – 9.85%

These rates apply to taxable income and not gross income. Taxable income takes into account all exemptions and deductions which follow the same guidelines as the federal deductions and exemptions. The standard deduction for Minnesota single filers is $6,300, $12,600 for married couples filing jointly, and $6,300 each if married and filing separately. Additionally, Minnesotans may claim a personal exemption of $4,000 for themselves and each dependent. For those who are married and filing separately, the itemized deductions are phased out at income greater than $90,575. Other filers have their itemized deductions phased out at $181,150.

Minnesota also taxes Social Security income at the same level as the federal government, whereas most states do not tax social security at all.

The three most significant tax credits allowed in Minnesota are: the Working Family Credit – for those who are eligible for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit; the Dependent Care Credit; and the k-12 Education Credit which allows taxpayers with children in school to deduct expenses.

Minnesota also has a sales tax of 6.875% but counties and cities can add to that amount between 0.25% up to 1%. Prepared food purchased at a grocery store to be consumed elsewhere is not taxed, but items like soft drinks and food from a vending machine are all taxable. Most clothing is not taxed, but accessories are taxed. For example, T-shirts are not taxed, but backpacks are.

Property taxes in Minnesota are assessed at the local level. Property taxes are handled by county authorities so they vary across the state. On average, annual property taxes that Minnesota seniors can expect to pay for their homes are around $2,200 which is the 19th highest in the country.

Minnesota has an estate tax that is currently applicable to estates greater than $1.4 million, but that amount will increase to $2 million by the year 2018. And gifts that have been made within three years prior to death are considered when valuing the estate of the dead person.

Minnesota is not a tax-friendly state for seniors, due to the following:

• Income from Social Security is partially taxed;
• Withdrawals from retirement accounts are taxed fully;
• Wages are taxed at normal rates, in Minnesota the rate is 5.3%;
• Public pension income is fully taxed; and
• Private pensions are fully taxed.

Minnesota is a low-price state, yet the cost of living is higher than the average. For example, what you could purchase for $100 in Minnesota is what you would expect to spend $102.46 on in another state. The cost of living is higher in Minnesota overall than it is in other states in every category with housing being the biggest difference. With 100 being the national average, Minnesota rated higher in grocery (103.5), transportation (102), utilities (103), miscellaneous (105), health (106), housing (103), and overall (104.)

Minnesota is a state that is known for its progressive political orientation and high rate of civic participation and voter turnout. The state’s standard of living index is the highest in the nation and Minnesota is also one of the best educated and wealthiest states in the nation.

Minnesota is also known for the museums in the state, books such as the "Little House on the Prairie" by Laura Ingalls Wilder, and for being the birthplace of 2016 Nobel Peace Winner and folk singer Bob Dylan.

Minnesota is one of the healthier states in America – although the proclivity of binge drinking has contributed to the drop from the #1 place to #6. The Medical Care in the Land of 10,000 lakes is considered some of the best in America, if not the world. This is primarily due to the University of Minnesota Medical School because of their breakthroughs in treatment and research activities. Rochester, Minnesota is home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic where it ranked in the top four in 16 fields of care, and it ranked seventh in psychiatry. In fact, the Mayo Clinic ranked #1 in eight fields and #2 in three others. So seniors living in Minnesota can feel good about getting the best healthcare possible.

Additionally, Minnesota has many schools and universities, both public and private, throughout the state. Minnesota has the second-highest proportion of high school graduates at 91.5%, and the 10th highest level of those with a bachelor degree. In recent years, Minneapolis was named the nation’s "Most Literate City" with St. Paul placing fourth. Six of the 20 private colleges and universities rank among the country’s top 100 liberal arts colleges.

Places of Interest for Seniors Living in Michigan

There are many things that might be of interest for senior citizens in Minnesota State and there are numerous outdoor activities available; however, some of the more interesting things that seniors may enjoy indoors in Minnesota include:

• Minnetonka Center for the Arts – located in Wayzata, Minnesota. This art studio was incorporated in 1952, although it had been operating long before that. In 2002, classes began in the newer building that has 30% more space than the original. Classes that the elderly can take advantage of include: Calligraphy, Ceramics, Drawing, Fiber Arts, Glass & Jewelry, Lectures, Paintings (Oils, Acrylics, Pastel and Watercolor), Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Sampler Saturday, Workshops for Adults, Workshops for Families, and Children and Teen Classes to enjoy with grandchildren. The hours of operation change depending on the season and the time of year. There are discounts available for members, early registration, new students, as well as tuition assistance for those who qualify;
• Landmark Center – located in St. Paul, Minnesota. This historic building is a cultural center for music, dance, theater, exhibitions and more. It is owned and supported by Ramsey County and managed by Minnesota Landmarks.

They have on-going exhibits and museums located within the building and it is even rentable for weddings and other events. Tours of the building are offered, including: Educational Tours, Gangster Tours, Interactive History Tours, Public Tours, and Tours for Selected Groups.

• North Shore Scenic Drive – located in Minnesota and begins in Duluth, MN. This drive is a 154-mile drive along the shoreline of Lake Superior where Minnesota seniors can see some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. You will have access to eight state parks, the Superior National Forest. The drive is free unless you purchase souvenirs or go to certain areas of interest. It is rated #1 of 94 things to do in Duluth and has been awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" by TripAdvisor.
• Shell’s – located in New Ulm, Minnesota. It’s been in the same location since 1860 and is one of the few breweries that survived the years of Prohibition. Sales for the tour are on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day of the tour and can be purchased one hour in advance. There is a $5 admission charge and the tour size is limited. There is also a museum on-site.
• Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center – located in Grand Marais, Minnesota. The museum and nature center is housed on 50-acres next to the Saganega Lake. There are trails that cover these 50-aces and seniors can learn about the Gunflint Trail with a family-focused, naturalist program.

This Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center is open from Memorial Day Weekend through the third weekend of October with the Museum open from 10am-5pm daily and the Nature Center open from 11am-4pm daily. Admission costs only $4.00; however, those who are members of the Gunflint Trail Historical Society get in free.

• Mayowood Mansion – located in Rochester, Minnesota. This mansion was built by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, in 1911 and he lived in it until 1939. In 1965, the Olmsted County Historical Society took control and operated it the Mansion as a historic house museum while maintaining it as it was when Doctor and Mrs. Mayo lived there. Mayowood and the surrounding grounds were transferred to the Mayo Clinic
• Charles A. Lindbergh Historical Site – located in Little Falls, Minnesota. This is the boyhood home of Charles Lindbergh, who flew across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927 in the "Spirit of St. Louis." This National Historic Landmark is open from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day. The price is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors and college students. The Charles A. Lindberg Historic Site is rated #1 out of 17 things to do in Little Falls, Minnesota.
• Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum – located in Walnut Grove, Minnesota. The town of Walnut Grove, Minnesota is synonymous with Laura Ingalls Wilder and in Walnut Grove there is plenty for seniors to do that revolves around the Wilder family. The Museum and Gift Store are in a series of buildings including: a 1898 depot, a chapel, an onion-domed house, dugout display, a little red schoolhouse, an early settler home, and a covered wagon display. Other exhibits in the museum include: a quilt owned by Laura and her daughter Rose; a Bible from the church that the Ingalls attended; Scale models of the Ingalls TV series homes; and historic documents, letters, photos, and articles. You can also see Plum Creek and the original Ingalls homestead in Walnut Grove. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum is rated #1 out of 3 of things to do in Walnut Grove.
• Pearl of the Lake Paddleboat – located in Lake City, Minnesota. Elderly Minnesota residents can take a trip on a modern-day replica of the riverboats that were prevalent on the Mississippi River during the 1800s. The tour is of Lake Pepin, the largest and most scenic River Lake on the Mississippi River, aboard the "Pearl of the Lake," which is U.S. Coast Guard Certified.

There is a full-service bar aboard, an enclosed climate controlled lower deck, and an open air upper deck. It seats a total of 125 people.

Different cruises are offered, such as: a 90-minute "Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Pepin" for $17, a two-hour "Sunset Dinner Cruise" for $45, or a 90-minute "Sunset Sightseeing Cruise" for $17. Senior Discounts are available on cruises for those over age 65. This activity is rated #1 of the 9 things that you can do in Lake City and there are other activities available on Lake Pepin as well.

Some cities to consider for Minnesota Senior Living:

• Litchfield, Minnesota – a city located in Meeker County, Minnesota as well as the county seat. It is in the middle southern part of the state and has a population of less than 7,000 people and a population density of 1,518.3 people per square mile.

While the median age is almost 40 years, over 16% of households had someone living there who was 65 or older. Around 18.5% of the population is over 65 and continues to attract retirees due to recreation activities and safety ratings.

Litchfield is rated overall with a grade of an A-. The top grades being crime and safety, good for families, and commute. It is rated #16 out of 233 of the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota," and #26 of the 138 "Safest Places to live in Minnesota;"

• Albert Lea, Minnesota – located in Freeborn County, a border county between Iowa and Minnesota, Albert Lea is also the county seat. It is approximately 90 miles south of the Twin Cities and is known as "The Land Between the Lakes" with the three main lakes in Albert Lea being: Fountain Lake, Pickerel Lake, and Albert Lea Lake – with Goose Lake, School Lake, and Lake Chapeau nearby.

The population is less than 18,000 people with a density of 1702.5 people per square mile. Over 17% of households had someone over the age of 65 living in the house and the total percentage of those over 65 is over 22%. It has a low crime rate and a low cost of living.

There are many seniors activities to do in Albert Lea as the Myre-Big Island State park is nearby with a 116-acre Big Island; The Marion Ross Performing Arts Center; and the Freeborn County Fair held every summer in Albert Lea.

Last year, Albert Lea was rated the #15 of 233 "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota," #25 of 233 of the "Most Diverse Places to Live in Minnesota," and #80 of 138 of the "Safest Places to Live in Minnesota;"

• Brainerd, Minnesota – Brainerd is a city in Crow Wing County, Minnesota and it also serves as the county seat of Crow Wing County. It straddles the Mississippi River and it is not only one of the largest cities in central Minnesota, but also the principal city of the Brainerd Micropolitan Area which includes the towns of Brainerd and Nisswa. The city of Brainerd has a population of less than 15,000 people with a population density of 1,141.1 people per square mile.

Last year, Brainerd was reported to be the poorest town in Minnesota with a median income of just $32,169. 15.6% of the population are retirees. There are attractions for seniors in Brainerd such as the Northland Arboretum, Brainerd International Raceway, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, and the Paul Bunyan State Trail.

Brainerd is also home to one of five medivac helicopter flight stations for "AirCare," which is operated by the North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale – a Level 1 Trauma Center.

Brainerd Lakes-Nisswa, Minnesota also offers seniors the following assistance:

• Elder-care facilities;
• Home Care;
• Meals on Wheels;
• Senior Centers;
• Van services for Seniors; and
• Visiting Nurses.

Last year, Brainerd was rated #58 out of 233 of the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota," #85 out of 233 of the "Most Diverse Places to Live in Minnesota," and #87 of 233 for the "Best Places for Millennials in Minnesota;"

• Nisswa, Minnesota – Nisswa is part of the Brainerd Micropolitan Area and the Brainerd lakes region. It is located 2 ½ hours away from Duluth, Minnesota, Fargo, North Dakota, and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. The population of Nisswa is around 2,000 with a population density of 182.8 people per square mile. Almost 25% of Nisswa residents are 65 or older, so you could consider Nisswa to be a retirement city. Nisswa is a resort community with tourism all year-long with a strong downtown shopping area, three medical facilities (Lakewood Health in Staples, Cuyuna, Regional Medical Center – Crosby/Baxter, and Essentia Health – Brainerd/Baxter) within 25 miles. Additionally, there is a VA clinic, Heart Institute, Cancer Center, and other health care providers.

For senior recreation or other activities, there are over 400 lakes within a 20-mile radius, bike paths, boating, exercise facilities, golf courses, hiking trails, indoor swim facilities, skiing, tennis courts, state parks, and running/walking paths. For those seniors who are not interested in outdoor activities, there are arts, concerts, live music, museums, and libraries available.

Seniors in the Nisswa area have multiple housing options, including: adult communities, assisted living, group homes, nursing homes, communities for those over the age of 40, residential units, residential care facilities and RV Parks.

• Fairmont, Minnesota – a city in and the county seat of Martin County, Minnesota which is the southern part of the state on the Minnesota/Iowa border. Fairmont is built around a chain of five lakes: Lake George, Sisseton Lake, Budd Lake, Hall Lake, and Amber Lake. The population is around 10,500 with a density of 709 people per square mile. The median age is 45 years, but over 22% of the population are seniors over the age of 65.

The lakes surrounding Fairmont are community recreational areas and allow seniors access to boating, swimming, water skiing, and fishing. There is also the Fairmont Aquatic Park, both public and private golf courses and historical attractions.

The Red Rock Center for the Arts is a venue that offers affordable entertainment for seniors and those of all ages and includes music such as big band, swing, jazz, cultural, strings and piano. The Fairmont Opera House also hosts musical performances throughout the year.

There are many options for housing for seniors in Fairmont such as apartments, assisted living, nursing homes, houses, communities for those over 50, rental units and residential care facilities.

Other services offered to the elderly in the Fairmont Area include:

• Meals on Wheels;
• Van services for seniors; and
• Visiting Nurses.

Last year, Fairmont ranked #30 out of 233 on the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota, and #91 out of 138 of the "Safest Places to Live in Minnesota;"

• Grand Rapids, Minnesota – located in Itasca County, Minnesota, it is also the county seat of Itasca County. The population is around 11,000 people with 23% of residents over the age of 65. It is often known as the hometown of Judy Garland, but Grand Rapids has much more to offer its residents, including having one of the few competitive high school marching bands north of the Twin Cities. Additionally, there are annual tourist events, such as: The Mississippi Melodie Showboat in July; Tall Timber Days in August; Itasca Vintage Car Show in July; White Oak Rendezvous and Festival in August; Goods From the Woods in September; Grand Slam of Golf Tournament in August; National Ruffled Grouse Society Annual Hunt in October; Judy Garland Festival in July; the White Oak Classic Dog Sled Race in January; and the Timberman Triathlon in July.

In recent years, Grand Rapids, Minnesota ranked #29 out of 233 for the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota" and #83 out of 233 of the "Most Diverse Places to Live in Minnesota;

• Bemidji, Minnesota – a city and the county seat of Beltrami County in north-west Minnesota. The population in Bemidji, MN is less than 15,000 people with a density of approximately 1,039 people per square mile. Bemidji is the largest commercial center between Grand Rapids, North Dakota and Duluth, Minnesota and is the "curling" capital of America. The city itself is of the south west shore of Lake Bemidji and is therefore nicknamed "The First City on The Mississippi."

Bemidji also is the hub of the Red Lake Indian Reservation, White Earth Indian Reservation, and the Leech Lake Indian Reservation. It is close to Chippewa National Forest, Itasca State Park, Lake Bemidji State Park, Big Bog State Park, and other state forest areas. Within 25 miles of town, there are 400 lakes, 500 miles of snowmobile trails, and 99 miles of cross-country skiing trails that seniors can take advantage of.

The median age is 27.1 years old with 15.6% of the population being over the age of 65. The town rates highly on nightlife, diversity, and commute. It also has carnivals and festivals throughout the year such as the "Night We Light," "Winterfest," "Hardwater Classic Ice Fishing Tournament," "The 4th of July Water Carnival" and "Art in the Park," but the most popular summer event is the "Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival" held the first Saturday in August. One of the more unusual attractions is an 18-foot stall statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe his Blue Ox, which earned the "Best of the Midwest" Roadside Attraction Award some years ago.

There are a wide variety of senior living options available in Bemidji, including: adult communities, apartments, assisted living, houses, nursing homes, communities for those over 50-years-old, residential care facilities, and RV parks.

Furthermore, Bemidji offers seniors assistance with the following:

• Long term care facilities;
• Home-care services;
• Senior Centers;
• Van services for seniors; and
• Visiting Skilled Nursing Care.

Last year, Bemidji ranked #30 out of 233 of the "Most Diverse Places to Live in Minnesota" and #40 out of 233 of the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota;"

• Lake City, Minnesota – a city within both Goodhue and Wabasha counties in Minnesota. It is 65 miles south of the Twin Cities and next to the Mississippi River at Lake Pepin. The population of Lake City is approximately 5,000 with 23.7% of the population 65 years or older. The median home value is $146,500 and the median rent is $881 per month. It also has a low crime rate, good access to doctors and great access to golf, recreation, fitness, restaurants, and libraries.

Last year, Lake City was rated #9 out of 233 of the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota," and #89 out of 233 of the "Most Diverse Places to Live in Minnesota;"

• Rochester, Minnesota – a city as well as the county seat of Olmsted County. It’s the third largest city in Minnesota and the largest city that is outside of the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. It is home to the Mayo Clinic as well as one of IBM’s largest facilities. The population of Rochester is around 113,000 and, unlike other cities in Minnesota, continues to grow at a steady rate.

Although the median age is 35 years old, over 12% of the population are seniors age 65 or older. There are many activities available for seniors living in Rochester, such as: bike paths, bowling, exercise facilities, fishing, hiking, movie theaters, shopping, sporting events, walking/running paths, tennis, and a state park.

Being home to the Mayo Clinic, one of the premier medical centers in America, means seniors who live in Rochester get close access to excellent physicians and medical care, but there is a wellness center and a VA Hospital in Rochester as well.

Seniors in Rochester have a wide array of housing options, including: adult communities, affordable housing, apartments, assisted living facilities, condos, gated communities, group homes, houses, nursing homes, residential care facilities, and RV Parks.

Additionally, Rochester offers the following to seniors in need:

• Senior Care facilities;
• In-Home care;
• Meals on Wheels;
• Senior center;
• Van services for seniors; and
• Visiting Nursing Services.

Last year, Rochester was rated #9 out of 233 of the "Best Cities to Live in America," #9 out of 223 "Best Cities to Buy a House in America," #19 out of 208 of the "Safest Cities in America," #8 out of 223 "Cities with the Lowest Cost of Living in America," #63 out of 223 of the "Healthiest Cities in America," and #10 of "Cities with the Best Job Opportunities in America." It also ranked #9 of the "Best Cities to Live in America;"

• New Ulm, Minnesota – the county seat of Brown County, New Ulm has a population of less than 14,000 people with over 18.5% aged 65 or greater. It is home to many historical sites, including Turner Hall, The Brown County Historical Society, Defender’s Monument, Hermann Monument, and the German Bohemian Monument. It has been referred to as the "City of Charm and Tradition" and has cultural activities and monuments throughout the city such as the "Glockenspiel in Schonlau Park," the "Minnesota Music Hall of Fame," "Oktoberfest," "Bock Fest," the "Bavarian Blast." It is also the "Polka Capital of the Nation" with New Ulm’s famous "Polka Days" held each July. The median home value is $123,800 and the median rent is $600. Last year, New Ulm, Minnesota was rated #23 out of 138 as the "Safest Places to Live in Minnesota" and #72 out 233 as the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota;"
• Cambridge, Minnesota – a city in Isanti County, Minnesota that is notable for having the highest percentage of Swedish-Americans of any city in the United States with a population of over 5,000 people. The total population is less than 8,500 people with 23.1% of the population who are seniors the age of 65. The median home value is $137,800 with the rent costing approximately $800 in this suburban town. Last year, Cambridge was ranked #25 out of 233 of the "Best Places to Retire in Minnesota," and #77 out of 186 of the "Most Diverse Suburbs in Minnesota."

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