Averages are a useful starting point but hide a wide range. Here is what typical CCRC entrance fees look like and what moves the number.
What is the average CCRC entrance fee?
Industry and AARP figures put the average CCRC entrance fee in the range of roughly $300,000 to $400,000, but this masks enormous variation. Actual fees run from about $40,000 at modest communities to well over $2 million at luxury campuses in high-cost areas. The biggest drivers are local real estate values, residence size, the level of prepaid future care in the contract, and whether the fee is refundable. Because averages vary so much, comparing real quotes near you matters more than any single number. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for area-specific figures.
What affects whether you pay above or below average?
You will likely pay above the average entrance fee if you choose a refundable contract (returning 50% to 90% later), a larger residence, a Type A Life Care contract that prepays care, or a community in a high-cost metro. You will pay below average with a smaller unit, a non-refundable declining-balance plan, a Type C fee-for-service contract, or a community in a lower-cost region. Knowing which levers you control helps you budget realistically. A licensed advisor can model the options — call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427).