Memory Care in Texas
What It Costs Across Texas
Navigating memory care costs in Texas can feel overwhelming, but understanding the regional differences can help. While the statewide median for memory care is around $4,997 per month, prices can vary significantly depending on location, amenities, and the level of care needed. For instance, in metropolitan areas like Austin, monthly costs can range from $5,700 to $7,200, and in Dallas-Fort Worth, you might see prices from $5,400 to $7,000. Houston's range is typically $5,000 to $6,800, and San Antonio can be $4,800 to $6,500. More affordable options often exist in areas like El Paso at around $4,350 or Laredo at $4,600 per month, and smaller communities like Amarillo can average $4,200 to $6,000.
Memory care typically carries a premium over standard assisted living, often costing 20-30% more. This difference, which can add approximately $650 to $1,338 to the monthly expense, is driven by the specialized care required. The premium covers a higher staff-to-resident ratio, 24/7 supervision, enhanced security measures to prevent wandering, and specialized programming designed to engage residents with cognitive impairments.
Finding a Quality Facility
In Texas, memory care facilities are licensed and regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) as a type of assisted living facility. Any facility that advertises specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders must be certified as such and hold a Type B license.
A quality memory care facility in Texas will have staff who undergo specific, ongoing dementia-specific training. Direct care staff must complete an initial 16-hour course in memory care and an annual 6-hour continuing education requirement. Managers also need six hours of annual continuing education focused on dementia care. This training covers critical areas like understanding dementia symptoms, stages, person-centered behavioral interventions, and effective communication. Facilities must also conduct an assessment within two weeks of admission to create a personalized care plan, which is reviewed annually. Look for facilities that offer robust, tailored activity programs led by a designated activity director and provide secure environments to ensure resident safety. Texas has over 1,100 facilities offering some form of Alzheimer's care. You can verify a facility's licensing status and review inspection histories through the HHSC website. Additionally, facilities with a Joint Commission Memory Care Certification, developed in collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association, demonstrate a high standard of specialized care.
Paying for Memory Care
Medicaid in Texas does not directly cover the room and board costs in residential memory care facilities, but it can help with many long-term care services for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia, including services provided in assisted living and nursing homes. The STAR+PLUS waiver is a key Texas-specific program for eligible seniors who require a nursing home level of care but wish to live in the community, including in assisted living settings. This waiver covers a wide array of medical and non-medical services. To qualify, individuals must meet specific income and asset limits, such as a $2,901 monthly income limit and a $2,000 asset limit for individuals in 2025.
For most families, memory care is primarily paid for out of pocket, often utilizing savings, long-term care insurance, or veterans' benefits. While Medicare generally doesn't cover long-term custodial care, it may cover certain medical services. The state also offers programs like PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) in specific regions for those needing a nursing facility level of care. The Grants to Increase Local Dementia Support (GILDS) program also provides resources and support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. The Alzheimer's Association is a vital resource, offering support groups, educational programs, and a 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 to connect families with local resources and guidance across Texas chapters.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.