Peter MokoenaAppleton, Wisconsin, offers a fantastic quality of life for retirees, combining the charm of a Midwestern city with access to excellent healthcare, parks along the Fox River, and a lively downtown scene with performances at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. The retirement living options here range from active independent communities to those providing comprehensive continuing care.
This guide provides a detailed look at 20 communities in and near Appleton, including key details to help you find your perfect fit.
20 Retirement Communities in and Near Appleton
1. The Heritage
Address: 2000 S. Heritage Woods Dr, Appleton, WI 54915
Details: A large, well-regarded continuing care retirement community (CCRC) offering a full spectrum of living options: independent living apartments and villas, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing/rehabilitation. Amenities include multiple dining venues, a fitness center, salon, and a full calendar of activities.
2. Brewster Village
Address: 3300 W Brewster St, Appleton, WI 54914
Details: A highly-rated, county-owned facility that provides skilled nursing, specialized memory care, and rehabilitative services. Known for its excellent care and community-focused approach, though it is not an independent living facility.
3. Peabody Manor
Address: 700 N. Westhaven Dr, Appleton, WI 54914
Details: A nonprofit senior living community offering independent living apartments, assisted living, and a specialized memory care unit. Connected to the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, it emphasizes a spirit-led, compassionate environment.
4. Parkview Health Center
Address: 725 S. Parkview Dr, Appleton, WI 54914
Details: Offers a range of services including short-term rehab, long-term skilled nursing care, and respite care. Focuses on helping residents regain strength and independence.
5. American Grand
Address: 350 S. American Dr, Appleton, WI 54914
Details: An assisted living and memory care community providing personalized care plans, restaurant-style dining, and a robust activities program designed to engage and enrich residents’ lives.
6. Willow Park Place
Address: 2900 N. Zenith Dr, Appleton, WI 54911
Details: A newer senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Features modern apartments, a bistro, theater, and a variety of common areas for socializing.
7. St. Paul Elder Services (Kaukauna)
Address: 121 E. 2nd St, Kaukauna, WI 54130
Details: Located just a short drive from Appleton, this is a premier Catholic-sponsored campus offering independent living apartments, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehab. Known for its beautiful chapel and strong sense of community.
8. Island Shores (De Pere)
Address: 745 Island Shores Dr, De Pere, WI 54115
Details: Situated on the Fox River in nearby De Pere, this community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care with stunning water views, a restaurant, and a full slate of activities.
9. Bridges (Menasha)
Address: 1000 Midway Rd, Menasha, WI 54952
Details: Part of the ThedaCare system, this community in neighboring Menasha offers independent living apartments and cottages, assisted living, and memory care. Focuses on a wellness-oriented lifestyle.
10. Prairie Home (Menasha)
Address: 1000 Midway Rd, Menasha, WI 54952
Details: Located on the same campus as Bridges, Prairie Home is dedicated to assisted living and memory care, providing secure, compassionate environments for those needing more support.
11. The Renaissance (Neenah)
Address: 1150 S. Commercial St, Neenah, WI 54956
Details: A well-established community in Neenah offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Features a warm, traditional atmosphere with a focus on personalized care.
12. Lighthouse Senior Living (Little Chute)
Address: 900 Grand Ave, Little Chute, WI 54140
Details: A smaller, residential-style assisted living and memory care community in nearby Little Chute, providing a high staff-to-resident ratio and a family-like atmosphere.
13. Carrington Apartments
Address: 301 E. Goodland Dr, Appleton, WI 54911
Details: An affordable independent living apartment community for seniors 55+. Offers a maintenance-free lifestyle with community rooms and social activities.
14. Appleton Senior Housing
Address: (Various locations, e.g., Colony House, 400 N. Badger Ave)
Details: Refers to HUD-subsidized affordable housing options for eligible low-income seniors in Appleton, providing safe and independent living.
15. Oak Park Place (Neenah)
Address: 1000 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Neenah, WI 54956
Details: A full-service senior living community in Neenah offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term respite stays. Known for its comprehensive amenities and care.
16. Edenbrook of Appleton
Address: 501 N. Westhaven Dr, Appleton, WI 54914
Details: A newer provider offering assisted living and memory care. Focuses on creating a comfortable, engaging environment with modern decor and amenities.
17. KindredHearts (Kaukauna)
Address: 1001 W. 11th St, Kaukauna, WI 54130
Details: An assisted living and memory care community in Kaukauna known for its compassionate, person-centered care and homelike setting.
18. St. Joseph Residence (New London)
Address: 336 E. Beacon Ave, New London, WI 54961
Details: A bit further out, this community offers a peaceful setting with independent living apartments, assisted living, and memory care, often with a faith-based component.
19. Frontida of Kimberly
Address: 100 S. Irish Rd, Kimberly, WI 54136
Details: A specialized assisted living and memory care provider in Kimberly focusing on creating a nurturing and stimulating home environment for its residents.
20. The Villas at Fox River (Appleton)
Address: (Conceptual/In Planning)
Details: A name that may be used for new development concepts, particularly those with potential views of the Fox River. Check with local real estate agents for any upcoming projects.
Conclusion: How To Make The Choice
Your Next Step: The senior living landscape is dynamic. **It is essential to contact communities directly** to confirm current availability, pricing, and specific services offered. The best way to choose is to:
1. Identify Your Needs: Are you looking for active independent living, assistance with daily activities, or specialized memory care?
2. Schedule Tours: Visit your top choices to get a feel for the atmosphere, meet staff and residents, and sample the dining.
3. Review Contracts Carefully: Understand the fee structure, especially for CCRCs, and what is included in the monthly cost.
4. Talk to Residents: They will give you the most honest insight into what daily life is truly like in the community.