Assisted Living in Maryland
What It Costs Across Maryland
Assisted living in Maryland can vary significantly in price, so understanding the regional differences is key. While the statewide median is around $4,900 per month, recent data from 2024 indicates the average cost has risen to approximately $6,900 per month. You'll generally find more affordable options in areas like Salisbury, where the monthly cost can be around $4,899. In contrast, urban centers like the Baltimore area tend to be more expensive, with costs reaching up to $6,650 per month. These price differences often reflect the local cost of living and the demand for services in a particular region. Remember that factors like the specific level of care needed and the facility's amenities will also influence the final cost.
Will Medicaid Help Pay?
Yes, Maryland does have a specific program that can help with assisted living costs, though it's important to understand its limitations. The primary program is the Community Options Waiver, also known as the Home and Community-Based Options Waiver (HCBOW). This waiver covers services such as assisted living, behavioral consultation, case management, and medical day care, but it's crucial to know that it does NOT cover room and board in an assisted living facility. To be eligible, your loved one must be 18 or older, live in the community, and meet a nursing facility level of care. Financial eligibility typically requires monthly income not exceeding 300% of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) level, which is $2,901 per month in 2025 for an individual, and countable assets not over $2,000 or $2,500.
A significant challenge with the Community Options Waiver is the waitlist. It's not an entitlement program, meaning meeting the criteria doesn't guarantee immediate placement. As of January 2025, there were 24,015 people on the Service Registry (waitlist), and only about 700 individuals are invited to apply each month. This means the wait can be several years. However, if your parent is currently in a nursing home and receiving Medicaid, they may be prioritized and can apply without waiting. Another option to explore is the Senior Assisted Living Group Home Subsidy Program, which can provide up to $650 a month for eligible residents.
How to Find a Good Facility
Maryland has a robust number of assisted living facilities, with over 1,600 licensed facilities across the state. When looking for the right fit, remember that facilities vary widely, from small homes to larger communities with many units. Consider the level of care your parent needs; some facilities even offer specialized units for individuals with Alzheimer's. It's always a good idea to visit prospective facilities in person.
The state's primary oversight agency is the Maryland State Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ), which licenses and inspects all assisted living residences. To check a facility's inspection records, you can ask the facility directly, as they are required to post their most recent surveys in a public area. You can also request copies of older inspection surveys from OHCQ. For a comprehensive resource, the Maryland Quality Reporting website allows you to find and compare quality measures and inspection results for facilities with 10 or more beds, and provides a directory for all licensed residences. Each facility is also required to provide a Uniform Disclosure form outlining its services, costs, and policies upon admission.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.