If you’re considering a move to a Life Plan Community, also called a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), like John Knox Village of Central Florida—now or in the future—you probably have many questions. One of the most common questions we’re asked is: How much will it cost?
The short answer is that it depends on a number of factors. At our Orange City senior living community, there is a one-time, upfront fee and a recurring monthly fee. Understanding how these fees work—and what they include—provides a clearer picture of how moving to this type of community can support your current lifestyle and future needs.
Why are there two separate fees?
The first thing to understand is that not all retirement communities are the same. While a traditional 55+ senior living community may offer housing and basic amenities, a Life Plan Community like John Knox Village provides much more: a vibrant lifestyle plus the security of future healthcare—all on one campus. That’s why entry and monthly fees are structured differently.
What do entry fees cover?
Your entry fee is more than just a one-time down payment—it’s an investment in your long-term peace of mind. An entry fee in a Life Plan Community like John Knox Village allows you to secure the lifestyle you want today while putting a plan in place for any care you may need down the road.
This fee includes:
- Lifetime access to care: One of the defining features of a Life Plan Community is that, should your health needs change, you’ll always have access to the full continuum of healthcare services on campus. This includes assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing.
- Flexibility and choice: Entry fees vary depending on the size and style of residence you select. Whether you’re drawn to a cozy one-bedroom apartment or a spacious villa, you can choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
- Financial protection: Our flexible refund policy provides a prorated refund of the entry fee for up to four years. That means part of your investment can be returned to you or your estate should you need to leave the community within that time. This helps protect your assets and provides additional peace of mind for your family.
What do monthly service fees cover?
Monthly service fees at John Knox Village cover many of the expenses you may pay as a homeowner, with the added benefit of having all the responsibilities of homeownership taken care of. So, you can spend your days doing the things you love to do, not have to do.
These fees include:
- Unlimited care in our nursing center: Perhaps the most important distinction offered at a Life Plan Community is the peace of mind that comes with having guaranteed care should you ever need it—without leaving the community you love.
- Dining: Flexible meal plans and chef-prepared menus let you enjoy a variety of options without the hassle of shopping, cooking, or cleanup.
- Home maintenance: From smoke detector batteries and leaky faucets to lawn care and bi-weekly housekeeping, everything is handled for you—saving you money and freeing up your time for what matters most.
- Utilities: Many utilities are bundled into the monthly fee, including electricity, water, and basic cable, which makes budgeting simple and consistent.
- Amenities and lifestyle programming: Your monthly fee gives you access to fitness and wellness programs, cultural events, lifelong learning opportunities, social gatherings, transportation services, and more.
- 24/7 security and emergency response: Knowing that help is always available provides tremendous peace of mind, both for you and for your loved ones.
When you add it all up, the monthly service fee can actually save you money compared to the unpredictable costs of maintaining a private home. For many folks, this predictability, along with the convenience, activities, and community it provides, is well worth the investment.
Retirement planning: Timing is everything.
There’s no doubt that deciding where to live in retirement is one of the most significant life choices you’ll make, but when you start planning it is also key. There are many reasons to plan early, even if you think you’re too young or may not yet be ready for a move. Here’s why:
- You can take full advantage of activities and amenities: There’s so much to do at John Knox Village. No wonder the number one piece of advice our residents give to those considering a move is to do it while you’re still young and healthy enough to enjoy everything.
- The sooner you plan, the more control you have: Waiting until a health crisis or urgent need arises can limit your options. Planning early ensures you get the residence you want and the contract terms that fit your financial goals.
- Costs don’t stand still: As with most things in life, the cost of senior living does increase over time. By making your move earlier, you can often save money and protect yourself from steeper increases down the road.
- Peace of mind for your family: Having a plan in place takes the burden off your loved ones—reassuring them that your needs will be met—both now and in the future. That kind of certainty is something you and your family will be thankful for.
Another reason it pays to plan your retirement early.
As you look ahead to the coming year, planning now can make a meaningful difference. Beginning in January, monthly service fees for new residents will increase by 6%. However, those who choose to move forward and move in before year’s end will be grandfathered into a much lower adjustment—just 2.99%, the same as current residents.
By acting now, you can secure your future at John Knox Village while keeping your monthly costs more manageable for years to come. We’re here to help you every step of the way. To learn more about the costs of living in our beautiful Orange City Life Plan Community or to schedule a visit, call 386-775-3840.