Assisted living in Massachusetts: cost, Medicaid & how to choose

Massachusetts has 272 licensed assisted-living communities. Assisted living suits someone who needs help with daily activities but not round-the-clock nursing. Here’s what to know in Massachusetts — cost, how Medicaid fits, and how to check a community’s record.

Find Massachusetts assisted living & memory care

Browse communities with each state’s inspection/violation record where published: all Massachusetts assisted living → or search near your ZIP →. Unlike nursing homes, assisted living has no national 5-star system — we show the state inspection record instead, never a fabricated rating.

Does Medicaid pay for assisted living in Massachusetts?

Yes — through a Medicaid waiver (care services, not room & board). The main program is Frail Elder Home & Community-Based Services Waiver (FEW). Medicaid never pays for room & board in assisted living — only the care services, and usually through a waiver that may have a waitlist. Details + how to apply: Massachusetts Medicaid & waivers →.

What it costs

Assisted living in Massachusetts runs about $9,600/month (U.S. median $6,200; memory care runs higher), varying by region and care level. Compare it to home care and nursing-home costs in the cost planner, or weigh it in My Plan.

Next steps

Assisted living vs. nursing home → · Questions to ask on a tour →

Compiled from public CMS, HUD/USDA, and state records; general information, not advice. Verify specifics with the facility and Massachusetts agencies.