Located in the heart of St. Charles County, this lovely town has earned some high praise, including being named one of Niche’s “Best Places to Live in Missouri” and coming in second in SafeWise’s “Safest Cities in Missouri” category.
As a resident of Avalon Park, the new independent living neighborhood in the area, you’ll live close to downtown Cottleville and all it offers. Better yet, as a golf cart community, you’ll be connected by paths that take you right to town. Or you can get where you need to go with our regularly scheduled transportation to an array of locations.
Nestled in the hills of St. Charles County lies the charming town of Cottleville. Though small in size, Cottleville offers big opportunities for fun and relaxation to its senior residents. When founders first settled the area in 1816, they were drawn by the natural beauty and promise of open land along the Missouri River. Over 200 years later, that beauty remains a cornerstone of life in Cottleville.
Are you a senior interested in living independently while also having amenities, services and a sense of community? Or maybe you have aging parents and want to understand options besides nursing homes for their next housing move.
Independent senior living communities like Avalon Park meet the needs of many older adults looking to live actively with some assistance available.
Unlike nursing facilities that provide medical care, independent senior communities offer residential housing plus services, with residents still largely responsible for managing their daily routines.
These neighborhoods or condo communities house residents aged 55+ only. They focus on providing rich social activities tailored to seniors and favorable amenities like golf, pools and clubhouses.
Light housekeeping is sometimes offered, but there is no personal care. You purchase or rent an apartment or single-family home. Costs run from $100,000 to $500,000+ to buy, with additional homeowner association fees. Rentals typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 monthly.
CCRCs allow aging in place by providing a continuum of senior housing. Campuses include everything from independent living homes and apartments to assisted living services to skilled nursing facilities. Depending on physical abilities, you can progress through different levels of care with minimal disruption.
CCRCs require a substantial entry fee that may be partially or fully refundable. Average nationwide entry fees range from $108,000 for a studio apartment to $420,000+ for a villa. Even after paying the entry fee, ongoing monthly costs for rent or maintenance also apply. Higher levels of care also involve additional fees.
These multi-unit residential complexes cater just to senior renters, typically ages 55+. Most resemble traditional apartments, where you pay rental rates monthly with no large buy-in fee. They may offer some convenience services or activities, but seniors handle most of their own day-to-day care.
Rents commonly fall between $1,000 to $3,300 per month depending on location, unit size, amenities included and level of luxury.
When evaluating housing communities, consider their included features against your lifestyle preferences and budget.
For example:
Look closely at all financial obligations too – not just quoted rent rates or real estate listing prices. Monthly fees on top of housing costs often apply for access to services and amenities. You may pay a large one-time entry or membership fee upfront, especially for CCRCs.
Be sure to read contracts carefully to calculate total carrying costs over time and avoid surprise charges. Consult with a financial advisor to project budgets that account for future healthcare needs that could arise. With careful planning using all the information available, finding an independent living option that fits with your evolving priorities is very achievable.
The town has plenty to offer people of all ages, but it seems almost custom-built for retirees. Nearly 20% of residents are over 65 – higher than county, state and national averages. The peaceful parks and walkable streets make getting around easy. The new Rivertown Square offers shops and eateries just a short stroll from neighborhoods. And the recently renovated Community Center provides a hub for senior activities and services.
One jewel of Cottleville is the Joseph’s Park walking trail encircling two lakes. Seniors can enjoy views of blue water dotted with turtles and ducks from the trail or lakeside gazebo. The paved 1.3 mile loop has only slight inclines, making it navigable for most. What better way to start the morning than breathing fresh air amongst natural beauty?
Those looking to pick up local fruits and vegetables can browse the Saturday Farmer’s Market from May-October. In addition to quality produce straight from area gardens, the market offers craft vendors, sweet treats, music and benches for when feet need a break. Seasonal parties like the Fall Harvest Celebration make the market an event rather than just shopping.
The recently expanded Cottleville Community Center provides a full schedule customized for seniors. Daily exercise options range from yoga and Zumba to pickleball and tap dance class. Special senior-only events include guest speakers, technology lessons and parties for St. Patrick’s Day, the Fourth of July and more. Seniors can also reserve space for card games, crafting or socializing.
Historic Main Street has a small-town charm with sidewalks, crosswalks and green space dotted with benches ideal for people watching. Boutique shops, ice cream stores and cafes are sites for leisurely browsing and mingling with neighbors. Many restaurants and bars have live music options as well – fuel for Cottleville’s growing reputation as a local arts destination.
Living independently is important for most seniors, and Cottleville offers resources. Transportation services help residents without vehicles make appointments or run errands. Multiple home health agencies provide assistance with medications, meals and daily tasks for those needing support. And when greater care is necessary, there are assisted living communities a short drive away.
Cottleville has a way of drawing people in and making them feel part of the family. There’s always another park to explore, a store to try or a friend to make.
Seniors can stay active and engaged while enjoying a community that feels like home. So if you’re a retiree seeking small town charm near the conveniences of suburbia, Cottleville may be calling your name!
Cottleville, Missouri
Take St Charles St to State Rte N
33 sec (387 ft)
Turn left at the 1st cross street onto State Rte N
1 min (0.2 mi)
Take Gutermuth Rd to your destination
3 min (1.2 mi)
Avalon Park Independent Living
11001 Cottleville Trails Dr, Cottleville, MO 63304
