A recent article highlights how several states are reshaping the financial ground rules for Life Plan Community entrance fees in 2026.
According to Ziegler's 2026 Resident Fee Projection, median entrance fees are rising about 5% nationally, with some western regions seeing increases up to 6.23%. Communities are describing some increases as "Capital Recovery" fees to fund unit renovations and higher debt costs.
The article also points to growing state-level consumer protections. Massachusetts has convened a Special Commission on CCRCs, with proposals that would require entrance-fee refunds within 12–18 months even if a unit has not been resold. North Carolina has implemented a 2026 statute requiring "Truth in Advertising" for entrance fees, escrow protections, and operating reserves if occupancy falls below 80%. Washington State has established an ombuds office to investigate entrance-fee disputes and care-level changes.
For residents, the key question may be whether these protections apply only to future contracts — or whether they signal broader reform.
Read the full article here: https://www.inkl.com/news/senior-living-entry-fees-are-being-restructured-in-several-states
Richmond Shreve
NaCCRA Board Member & VP
Forum Moderator