When people ask me about the best spots to retire in Oakland County, Auburn Hills often tops the list because it manages to hit that perfect sweet spot. It sits right in the middle of everything – balancing the quiet, tree-lined streets you want for a relaxing evening with the kind of accessibility that makes life easy. You aren’t tucked away in the middle of nowhere; you have immediate access to I-75, which makes family visits or trips down to Detroit incredibly simple.
Living here means you have some fantastic local amenities right in your backyard. For those who like to stay active year-round, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets isn’t just for shopping – it is a favorite spot for morning walkers who want to get their steps in regardless of the Michigan weather. If you are more into culture and lifelong learning, having Oakland University nearby is a massive perk for catching a play, a concert, or a lecture.
Of course, as we get older, proximity to good healthcare becomes a major priority. Auburn Hills is well-positioned here, too. You are just minutes away from top-tier facilities like Ascension Providence Rochester and Corewell Health (formerly Beaumont). Whether you are looking for a maintenance-free condo or need a community with a bit more daily support, this area has a solid mix of options to fit different needs and budgets.
Top Independent Living & 55+ Communities in Auburn Hills
If you are healthy, active, and just tired of mowing the lawn or fixing a leaky roof, independent living is likely your best starting point. In Auburn Hills, the inventory is distinct because it ranges from affordable rentals to high-end gated communities where you actually own your home.
Heritage in the Hills This is often the first name that comes up for buyers who want to downsize but aren’t ready to give up homeownership. It is a gated 55+ community, which gives it a very private, secure feel. The homes here are detached condos, meaning you get the privacy of a house without the exterior maintenance. Residents love the clubhouse, the swimming pool, and the tennis courts. If you are looking at homes for sale in Auburn Hills, expect resale prices here to generally range from the low $300,000s to the mid $400,000s.
Taylor Crossing Senior Apartments For those who prefer renting over buying, Taylor Crossing offers a newer, more “luxury” apartment feel. It is a 55+ community that focuses on convenience. You get in-unit laundry – which is a dealbreaker for many – and there are options for garage parking, which is essential during our winters. Rents here typically start around $1,470 per month, making it a solid middle-ground option for those who want nice finishes without a mortgage.
The Meadows of Auburn Hills If budget is a primary concern, The Meadows is a community worth investigating. It is an income-restricted rental option, which helps keep costs lower for seniors on a fixed income. Despite the lower price point – often starting around $1,019 per month – they don’t skimp on the social aspect. They have a library, a billiards room, and a fairly active calendar of events. It is a great solution for staying local and connected without stretching your finances too thin.
Assisted Living & Memory Care Options
Sometimes, independent living just isn’t enough. If you or your parent needs help with daily tasks – like medication management, dressing, or meals – assisted living provides that safety net while maintaining dignity.
The Courtyard at Auburn Hills This facility specializes in both Assisted Living and Memory Care. It is designed for families who need peace of mind knowing there is 24-hour support available. They have a strong focus on keeping residents engaged, so you will see a social calendar packed with activities designed to keep the mind active. Pricing here reflects the level of care, usually falling between $4,475 and $6,000 per month. They also have secure wings specifically for memory care, featuring emergency call systems to ensure safety for residents with dementia.
Willowbrook Hills Another key option in the area is Willowbrook Hills. What stands out here is the “continuum of care” approach. This often allows residents to age in place, moving from lighter assistance to more intensive care as their needs change, without having to move to a completely new facility. The atmosphere is designed to feel like a neighborhood rather than a clinic, and its location near Oakland University keeps it feeling connected to the wider community.
Nearby Senior Living in Rochester Hills
Because Auburn Hills is a relatively compact area, inventory can sometimes be tight. If you aren’t finding exactly what you need within the city limits, it is smart to look just across the border into Rochester Hills. The two cities blend together seamlessly, so you won’t be moving far from your doctors or favorite shops.
Rochester Hills tends to offer additional luxury options. You might check out American House, which has multiple locations nearby like the Village, Elmwood, or Stone. They are well-regarded for their consistent quality. Another high-end alternative is All Seasons Rochester Hills, which caters to independent living with a very resort-style atmosphere. Expanding your search just a few miles east can open up a lot more doors if the Auburn Hills waitlists are long.
Cost of Senior Living in Auburn Hills, MI
Understanding the numbers is the most stressful part of this process for most families. Oakland County is one of the more desirable areas in Michigan, so prices here can be slightly higher than the state average, but they vary widely depending on the lifestyle you choose.
Here is a quick breakdown of what you might expect to budget monthly:
- Active Adult Rentals: $1,000 – $1,800 per month. This covers your rent and usually some amenities, but you handle your own food and personal care.
- Assisted Living: $4,000 – $6,500 per month. This is a big jump because it includes meals, utilities, and the staff who are there to help 24/7. Memory care will be at the higher end of this range.
- Home Ownership (Condos): $300,000+ purchase price. Don’t forget to factor in the monthly HOA fees, which cover the landscaping and snow removal that make these communities so attractive.
When you are doing your financial planning for retirement, remember that assisted living costs are often all-inclusive. While the sticker price looks high, it replaces your grocery bill, property tax, utilities, and home maintenance costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between independent living and 55+ apartments?
Independent living usually refers to communities that might offer meal plans, housekeeping, and organized transport, while “55+ apartments” like Taylor Crossing are typically just age-restricted rentals. In a standard 55+ apartment, you live completely on your own just like in any other apartment complex, but your neighbors are all in your age bracket.
Are there gated retirement communities in Auburn Hills?
Yes, Heritage in the Hills is the premier gated community in the area. It is popular because it offers that extra layer of security and privacy, along with a clubhouse and active social scene, for seniors who want to own their own detached condo.
How close are Auburn Hills senior communities to healthcare?
Very close. Most communities in Auburn Hills are within a 10 to 15-minute drive of major hospitals. Ascension Providence Rochester is right next door, and Corewell Health has major facilities nearby. Emergency response times in this area are generally excellent.
Does Medicaid cover assisted living in Auburn Hills?
Medicaid generally does not cover the “rent” portion of assisted living. However, Michigan has the MI Choice Waiver program, which can help pay for the care services (like help with bathing or meds) provided in an assisted living setting for those who qualify financially. It is best to ask each specific community if they accept waiver participants, as not all do.
