Projecting Resident Fee Increases for Senior Living

This report presents the findings from the October 2025 CFO HotlineSM survey conducted by Ziegler, focusing on resident fees within senior living organizations. The survey gathered insights from over 220 primarily not-for-profit organizations regarding their pricing strategies, cost pressures, and financial planning expectations for the upcoming year. The results indicate that most organizations have increased entrance fees by an average of 5.30% in 2025, with projections of approximately 5.00% for 2026. The report details the primary drivers of these fee changes, which include real estate dynamics, local competitive markets, and rising operational costs. Additionally, it highlights the trends in monthly fee increases, which, while still elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, are beginning to moderate. The report also discusses the regional variations in fee increases and emphasizes the importance of transparent communication with residents regarding necessary rate adjustments. Overall, the findings reflect the ongoing challenges and strategic adaptations faced by senior living providers in maintaining financial stability.