How to Choose Between Assisted and Independent Living in Wisconsin

Whether you’ve always envisioned enjoying retirement in a vibrant Wisconsin senior living community or are just starting to explore a more low-maintenance or supportive lifestyle, understanding your options is the first step. Across the Badger State, older adults have many ways to stay active, connected and supported, thanks to the state’s wide range of senior living communities.

From Milwaukee and Madison to Green Bay and La Crosse, Wisconsin’s senior living communities offer maintenance-free living and abundant wellness resources. But not all options are the same. Each varies in its amenities, services and level of care.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between independent living and assisted living. For example, in Wisconsin, independent living communities are typically not licensed by the state because they focus on lifestyle rather than health care. Assisted living, on the other hand, includes several licensed options overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS).

The differences in licensure, levels of care, available services, housing options and social programming all play an important role in understanding what each lifestyle entails—and what it does not.  It’s a key step in helping you decide which lifestyle best meets your needs.

Let’s take a look at the differences:

What is Living In Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, independent living communities are not licensed because they focus more on supporting residents’ social and lifestyle needs. Most residents can live independently with little to no assistance. Independent living includes a range of options—from active adult communities that offer housing and select amenities to continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), which provide on-site healthcare services if needed.

The Types of Assisted Living in Wisconsin

Assisted Living communities support those who need help with daily activities while allowing them to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. In Wisconsin, assisted living  includes different license options that DHS oversees:

• Residential Care Apartment Complexes (RCACs) – Closer to independent living with support (private apartments, lighter assistance)
• Community-Based Residential Facilities (CBRFs) – Closest to typical assisted living (more personal care, some shared spaces)
• Adult Family Homes (AFHs) – Smaller, home-like settings for one to four residents who need close, personalized care
• Memory Care — Specialized assisted living for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. These communities provide 24-hour support in secure, structured settings, typically within licensed CBRFs in Wisconsin.

Type of Residences

Both independent and assisted living communities in Wisconsin offer comfortable, maintenance-free homes—but their designs and layouts reflect different levels of independence and support. Here’s how the two typically compare.

Independent Living in Wisconsin

• Resembles an active adult or 55+ community
• Offers a range of housing styles—from apartment buildings to freestanding cottages or townhomes
• Includes full kitchens, private residences,  access to community amenities, services,   and activities
• Emphasizes independence and lifestyle                  

Assisted Living in Wisconsin

• Designed for older adults who need daily support
• Typically, apartment-style homes that are smaller and easier to navigate
• Often features kitchenettes instead of full kitchens and other safety-focused modifications (e.g., walk-in showers, grab bars, no stairs)
• Emphasizes safety, accessibility and personalized care

Support and Medical Care

One of the biggest differences between independent and assisted living in Wisconsin is the level of daily support provided. Independent living focuses on freedom and convenience, while assisted living adds personalized care and licensed oversight to help residents stay safe and healthy.

Independent Living in Wisconsin

• Designed for older adults who live independently without needing daily assistance
• Offers optional services like housekeeping, transportation, and dining—but no medical care
• Residents manage their own schedules, medications, and health appointments
• May be part of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that offers access to assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing if needed 
• Focuses on independence, social engagement, and convenience

Assisted Living in Wisconsin

• Intended for seniors who need help with personal care or daily activities (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, or medication management
• Provides around-the-clock support from trained caregivers and licensed nurses, depending on the setting
• Care plans are personalized and reviewed regularly to adapt to changing needs
• Licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) as an RCAC, CBRF, or AFH, based on care intensity
• Focuses on safety, health monitoring and maintaining quality of life

Amenities and Life Enrichment Programming

In Wisconsin, both independent and assisted living communities offer much more than a place to live — they’re designed to help residents stay active, social, and well. From chef-prepared meals and lifelong learning programs to on-site fitness classes and community outings, amenities and life enrichment opportunities play a big role in promoting wellness at every stage of aging.

Independent Living in Wisconsin

• Focuses on lifestyle, convenience, and social connection
• Housekeeping and maintenance included
• Flexible dining — residents can cook at home or enjoy chef-prepared meals (usually one or two meals included)
• Rich calendar of educational, cultural, and recreational programs
• Access to fitness centers, libraries, game rooms, walking paths, and community spaces
• Emphasizes independence and choice in how residents spend their day

Assisted Living in Wisconsin

• Combines lifestyle amenities with personalized support and wellness programming 
• Housekeeping and maintenance included, with laundry services often provided
• Three daily meals plus snacks; dining encourages social connection and balanced nutrition 
• Daily life enrichment activities tailored to residents’ abilities and interests, including adapted fitness and brain health programs
• Access to the same amenities plus specialized spaces for therapy, wellness and small-group engagement
• Emphasizes engagement, routine and overall well-being with 24-hour staff support

Who Benefits from Independent Living vs. Assisted Living?

Every older adult’s situation is unique, and the right choice depends on their health, lifestyle, and support needs. In Wisconsin, many people start with independent living for its freedom and convenience, while others find that assisted living’s added care and structure provide the best balance of independence and peace of mind. Here’s a quick comparison to help you determine where you or a loved one might feel most at home.

Independent Living is best for those who:

• Does not require assistance or care
• interested in downsizing to a senior-friendly home or apartment
• Wants a maintenance-free lifestyle
• Prefers companionship rather than living alone
• Enjoys being active and social
• Desires services and amenities without sacrificing independence

Assisted Living is best for those who:

• Need help with everyday tasks (bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Struggle with household chores or management responsibilities
• Have difficulty preparing meals or maintaining proper nutrition
• Prefers companionship rather than living alone
• Misses doses or takes medications incorrectly
• Feel isolated, lonely, or depressed when living alone
• Has a chronic health condition that needs monitoring (e.g., diabetes, Parkinson’s
• Has mobility issues or is prone to falls
• Wants to reduce reliance on family for ongoing support

Cost Comparison

Independent Living in Wisconsin (excluding 55+ communities) costs, on average, $2,780 a month. This can vary depending on the size of your apartment, the services offered by the community, and the number of occupants. Price differences in Wisconsin may also be driven by factors such as local cost of living, state- and city-specific development, and healthcare policies.

Some communities may also require you to pay an entrance fee. For example, Life Plan Communities require an entrance fee to cover future medical costs or health care services you may need if your health changes.

Assisted Living communities are generally rental-based and often require a one-time community entrance fee. In addition, residents pay a monthly fee that typically includes maintenance, housekeeping, security, three daily meals, access to a range of activities and programs, and personalized care and support. Some communities may charge more for residents needing more than a few hours of assistance each day. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Report, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Wisconsin is $6,150.

Private Pay

Both independent and assisted living are paid for privately, so Medicare and Medicaid are not usually accepted. Learn how families pay for care and find ways to help offset costs.

What’s the right fit for you?

Put simply, Independent Living is for active older adults who are ready for a worry-free lifestyle. They can enjoy the comforts and conveniences of a senior living community, focus on maintaining their health, and spend more time with friends and family. Assisted living is for seniors who live independently but need some form of assistance with activities of daily living. With the right help at the right time in a supportive and understanding community, they’re able to stay independent longer.

Key Takeaways

Independent Living in Wisconsin:

Licensure: Not licensed by DHS

Who It’s For: Active, self-sufficient adults                      

Living Spaces: Apartments or cottages, full kitchens         

Care & Support: Little or none

Meals & Dining: Optional or partial meal plans

Activities: Social and recreational focus

Monthly Cost: Av: $2,780

Examples: 55+ or CCRC independent residences

Assisted Living in Wisconsin:

Licensure: Licensed as RCAC, CBRF, or AFH

Who It’s For: Seniors needing daily assistance

Living Spaces: Accessible apartments, safety features

Care & Support: 24-hour personal care and supervision

Meals & Dining: Three daily meals included

Activities: Health and engagement-focused programs

Monthly Cost: Av: $6,150

Examples: RCACs, CBRFs, AFHs

Find Community

As you investigate senior living options in Wisconsin, whether for yourself or a loved one, it helps to visit several communities in person to see the differences firsthand.  By comparing communities, understanding the offerings, exploring payment options, and asking the right questions, you can find a community that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. 

Where You Live Matters

Where You Live Matters is powered by the American Seniors Housing Association  (ASHA), a respected voice in the senior housing industry. ASHA focuses on legislative and regulatory advocacy, research,education and networking for senior living executives to help them better understand the needs of older adults nationwide.

Additional sources:
Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA)