Housing Assistance for Seniors in North Carolina
Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel
In North Carolina, over 3.7 million people are above 50 years and this is the ninth-highest number in all states. The median age in North Carolina is 38.9 which is slightly higher than the national median 38.5. The percentage of the population 50 years and above is 35.8% ranked 27th in the U.S. which has an average of 35.30%. The rise of the median age between 2010-2018 was 4.30% ranked 12th in the country with the U.S. average being 2.70% showing the state is aging faster.
The life expectancy in North Carolina is 78 which is almost similar to the national average of 78.5 ranking North Carolina 37th. The population of seniors above 55 years who are still in the labor force stands at 30.4% ranked 38th countrywide. The average household income for seniors above 65 years is $40,070 ranked 39th in the country.
North Carolina’s housing index of 94.70 makes the state the most affordable state to retire in the country. One-bedroom and two-bedroom apartment’s average monthly cost is $656 and $793 respectively which is relatively low with respect to the national average of $825 and $1027 respectively.
Housing Options
In-Home Care: Average home healthcare costs are around $3,432 a month.
Adult daycare facilities in North Carolina cost $1,148 a month.
Independent Living Communities are designed for active seniors who want to live in a social environment with access to amenities and services. They typically offer private apartments or cottages, and residents can enjoy activities, meals, and housekeeping services. The average cost for an Independent Living facility ranges between $605 to $4,342.
Assisted Living Facilities provide housing, personal care, and support services to seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These facilities often have communal dining areas, recreational activities, and 24-hour staff availability. The price ranges between $1,100 to $7,895 depending on location. Assisted Living costs an average of $3,250.
Memory Care Facilities specialize in providing care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. These facilities have secure environments and staff trained to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory impairments. The average cost in the state per year is $51,156.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a continuum of care within one community, including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. This option allows seniors to transition between different levels of care as their needs change over time.
Nursing Homes provide around-the-clock medical care and supervision for seniors with complex medical needs. They offer services such as rehabilitation therapy, skilled nursing care, and assistance with daily activities. A semi-private and private room in a nursing home in North Carolina monthly cost is about $6,844 and $7,604 respectively.
Hospice Care is mainly required for the ones who are terminally ill. The average cost of hospice care in North Carolina is $55,080 per year.
Respite Care in North Carolina costs an average of $73,913 a year.
State Housing Assistance
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) offers various programs to assist low- and moderate-income individuals and families with affordable housing. These programs include rental assistance, down payment assistance for homebuyers, and mortgage credit certificates. North Carolina Housing Coalition is a non-profit organization that advocates for affordable housing in North Carolina. They offer a variety of resources, including a searchable database of affordable housing options. North Carolina Apartment Association is a trade association that represents apartment owners and managers in North Carolina. They offer a searchable database of apartment communities in North Carolina.
Rental Assistance
HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly program provides funding to nonprofit organizations to develop and manage affordable rental housing for seniors aged 62 and older. These housing projects typically offer rental assistance in the form of reduced rents based on income, ensuring that seniors can afford safe and comfortable housing. North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Rental Assistance Programs offers various rental assistance programs that may benefit seniors. These programs include the Workforce Housing Loan Assistance Program, which provides rental assistance to low-income individuals or families, and the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, which offers rental subsidies to eligible participants.
North Carolina Senior Housing Program provides rental assistance to low-income seniors aged 55 and older. It offers affordable housing options and rental subsidies based on income eligibility. You can contact the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or local housing authorities for more information. Elderly Housing Options Program (EHOP) offers rental assistance to seniors who require supportive services to maintain their independence. The program helps seniors access affordable housing and coordinates supportive services, such as transportation, meals, and social activities. Reach out to local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) to learn more about EHOP and other senior housing options.
Local Housing Authorities: Many local housing authorities in North Carolina administer rental assistance programs specifically designed for seniors. These programs may include subsidized housing, rental vouchers, and other forms of rental assistance. Contact your local housing authority to inquire about available programs and application processes.
Home Repair and Improvement Grants
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Urgent Repair Program provides grants to low-income homeowners who need immediate repairs to address health and safety concerns in their homes. The grants are administered through local organizations and can cover repairs such as electrical, plumbing, roofing, and structural issues. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to local governments and nonprofit organizations to support community development initiatives. Some communities in North Carolina may allocate a portion of their CDBG funds for home repair programs, offering grants or low-interest loans for eligible homeowners.
Weatherization Assistance Program addresses health and safety concerns in low-income households too while it is primarily focused on energy efficiency improvements. Eligible homeowners can receive free or low-cost weatherization services such as insulation, weatherstripping, HVAC system upgrades, and other energy-saving measures.
Habitat for Humanity affiliates in North Carolina offers home repair programs aimed at assisting low-income homeowners with critical repairs. These programs often involve volunteer labor and can assist with issues such as roofing, accessibility modifications, and weatherization. USDA Rural Development Programs offers home repair grants and loan programs for homeowners in rural areas of North Carolina. The Single-Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants program provides grants to eligible low-income homeowners aged 62 and older to address health and safety hazards or make necessary repairs.
Veterans Affairs Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) Grant: If you’re a veteran residing in North Carolina, you may be eligible for the HISA grant, which provides financial assistance to make necessary home modifications or repairs to accommodate a disability or improve accessibility. Rebuilding Together is a national nonprofit organization with local affiliates that provide free home repair and modification services to low-income homeowners, including seniors. They rely on volunteer labor and donations to make critical repairs and improvements.
Low-Interest Loans for Housing
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Home Improvement Loan offers a low-interest Home Improvement Loan program that provides financing for eligible homeowners to make necessary repairs, modifications, or energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. These loans have favorable interest rates and flexible repayment terms. If you are a veteran, you may be eligible for low-interest home loans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA home loans provide favorable terms and may be used to purchase or refinance a home.
Reverse Mortgage: A reverse mortgage is a loan available to homeowners aged 62 and older. It allows seniors to convert a portion of their home equity into loan proceeds, which can be used to pay for housing expenses or other needs. Reverse mortgages are typically repaid when the homeowner sells the home, moves out, or passes away.
Local Banks and Credit Unions: Many local banks and credit unions in North Carolina offer specialized loan programs for seniors. These programs may include home equity loans, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), or personal loans with low-interest rates and favorable terms.
Housing Assistance from Local Organizations and Charities
Habitat for Humanity affiliates operate throughout North Carolina, offering affordable homeownership opportunities for low-income individuals and families. They build or rehabilitate homes in partnership with qualified applicants and provide affordable mortgage options. Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are local nonprofit organizations that aim to alleviate poverty and improve living conditions. Many CAAs in North Carolina offer housing assistance programs, including rental assistance, emergency shelter, and home repair programs.
Inter-Faith Council for Social Service: Based in Chapel Hill, the Inter-Faith Council for Social Service provides housing-related services, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rapid rehousing programs for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
Crisis Assistance Ministry: Located in Charlotte, Crisis Assistance Ministry assists individuals and families in crises with emergency financial assistance for rent and utility payments, as well as assistance with obtaining affordable housing options. Reinvestment Partners is a Durham-based organization that focuses on community development and affordable housing initiatives. They provide services such as foreclosure prevention counseling, homebuyer education, and financial assistance programs for home repairs and modifications
Legal Assistance for Eviction
Legal Aid of North Carolina is a non-profit organization that provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families. They have offices throughout the state and offer services to eligible individuals facing eviction. North Carolina Lawyer Referral Service is operated by The North Carolina State Bar. It may help you find an attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant law.
Tenant Rights Clinics: Some organizations and community legal clinics in North Carolina periodically offer tenant rights clinics where you can receive free legal advice on eviction-related issues.
North Carolina offers a variety of senior living options and resources to support the needs of its aging population. From independent living communities to assisted living facilities and memory care centers, seniors can find housing solutions that cater to their individual preferences and requirements. Feel free to check Aging and Adult Services – NC DHHS for more information.