When searching for a senior community, the decision frequently narrows down to two nearby locations. For residents of Southern California, Lancaster and Palmdale are often top contenders. Both cities are in the Antelope Valley region, just northeast of Los Angeles.
Since these cities are about eight miles apart, comparing them can be easy. Still, there are challenges, especially if you’ve never been to either: Senior apartments in Palmdale might offer certain perks, while ones in Lancaster might have others.
How can you make this decision? Start by familiarizing yourself with the area. The Havens at Antelope Valley is in Lancaster, and our experts have insider information on both of these appealing towns.
What is the Antelope Valley like?
Lancaster and Palmdale sit in the western Mojave Desert, with clear skies and scenic desert landscapes. Situated in northern Los Angeles County, the Antelope Valley offers a quieter lifestyle compared to bustling city centers.
Lancaster and Palmdale are about 60 miles north of L.A. The short distance between the first two cities means that either could be an ideal home base for seniors. However, the features and amenities each town offers make all the difference when choosing the right place for your loved one.
Comparing Senior Living in Lancaster to Palmdale
Next, we’ll compare four categories before explaining the cost of living in Lancaster and Palmdale.
1. Attractions
Lancaster offers numerous attractions tailored to seniors, enhancing their quality of life:
- Prime Desert Woodland Preserve provides accessible walking trails amid natural beauty.
- The weekly Lancaster farmers market (BLVD Market) is a delightful spot for fresh produce and local crafts.
- Seniors can also enjoy performances at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center.
- Annual cultural events like the California Poppy Festival are enriching recreational experiences.
Palmdale presents a slightly different experience. Known for its expanding suburban feel, it has numerous shopping and dining options, which can be a significant advantage for seniors who enjoy that.
- The Palmdale Amphitheater frequently holds concerts and community events, adding to the vibrant culture of the area.
- The Joe Davies Heritage Airpark offers fascinating insights into aviation history, perfect for educational, leisurely outings.
- Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area provides stunning hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities, promoting physical wellness and mental rejuvenation.
2. Public Transportation
Lancaster is served by the Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA), which offers reliable bus services throughout the city and to nearby areas, including Palmdale. This service is particularly beneficial for seniors who may no longer drive, enabling them to maintain their independence.
Palmdale also benefits from AVTA services. The city’s more spread-out nature might make it slightly more challenging for seniors to get around without a car.
3. Housing Options
Lancaster housing options for seniors include a range of rental apartments and assisted living communities like The Havens at Antelope Valley. The apartment complexes provide comfortable, well-designed living spaces but might lack support services and community-focused amenities for older adults.
Palmdale has several senior apartment complexes with units for rent, as well as 55+ communities that emphasize hassle-free lifestyles.
4. Health care
Lancaster has several respected medical organizations:
- Antelope Valley Hospital
- Lac/High Desert Hospital
Palmdale has these hospitals:
- Palmdale Regional Medical Center
- Desert Palms Community Hospital
Since the towns are close together, seniors in the area have easy access to all four of these respected medical facilities.
Cost of Living Comparisons
The difference between the cost of living in these towns is small but noteworthy: it’s 3% more expensive to live in Palmdale than in Lancaster.
Palmdale senior apartments might have a higher cost of living than a Lancaster senior living community like The Havens at Antelope Valley. The Palmdale cost of living includes housing, groceries, and health care expenses, which are generally more expensive than in Lancaster.
The Genworth Cost of Care Survey puts Lancaster and Palmdale in the Oxnard Valley for the sake of cost comparisons. Here are its average monthly costs for:
- In-Home Care: $6,864
- Assisted Living Facility: $5,800
For families seeking senior housing, these financial considerations can play a central role in the decision-making process. The cost of living in a Palmdale, CA, apartment might also include rent and an aide, on top of all the other expenses.
The Havens at Antelope Valley in Lancaster, CA
The Havens at Antelope Valley is an assisted living and memory care community that offers several advantages to seniors. The calming atmosphere promotes a peaceful lifestyle, and local parks and cultural events offer enriching experiences. Additionally, the lower cost of living compared to Palmdale makes Lancaster an economically wise choice.
Residents here enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds, perfect for morning or evening strolls. Social activities and wellness programs keep the community vibrant and engaging, helping residents feel connected. The thoughtfully designed living spaces offer maximum comfort and convenience, making it easier for seniors to focus on enjoying their day-to-day lives without worries.
Choosing between Lancaster and Palmdale for senior living is a significant decision, but with thoughtful consideration of what each city offers, you can find the best fit for your loved one. The Havens at Antelope Valley in Lancaster stands as a testament to the quality of life that seniors can enjoy in the Antelope Valley region.
The Havens at Antelope Valley Can Support Your Loved One
Our assisted living and memory care community offers the perfect balance of care and freedom in one of the most magnificent parts of California. Our core values are Passion, Caring, Accountability, Teamwork, and Financial Stewardship; contact us for a tour and see how our residents benefit from those values every day.