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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 10 nursing homes in Aurora, IL using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in IL
Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the IL Dept. of Public Health (IDPH), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.
Communities are listed from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.
The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This TableAL (Assisted Living):
Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing.
NH (Nursing Home):
24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs.
SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility):
Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness.
MC (Memory Care):
Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia.
RC (Respite Care):
Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break.
HOS (Hospice Care):
Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The Illinois average is: 60.5% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other IL nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 10 analyzed for Aurora. See how we rank facilities
What The Grove Fox Valley provides in Aurora, IL, is nursing home care, skilled nursing, and memory care. The combination fits someone whose dementia comes with a need for ongoing nursing as well.
Memory care for dementia with a wandering risk is supervised and secured. A resident needing a nurse in the middle of the night finds a licensed one on duty.
With 158 beds in the building, each resident’s day includes an average of 2 hours and 27 minutes of nursing. At 49 for Walk Score, the location is car-dependent, and most errands call for a ride. Payment can run through Medicaid, Medicare, or the resident’s own funds.
Thrive of Fox Valley in Aurora, IL, offers skilled nursing, long-term nursing home care, and specialized memory care. On-site licensed nurses deliver 24-hour clinical monitoring, while secured memory units provide structured supervision for individuals living with dementia who are prone to wandering.
The 68-bed community maintains a 97% occupancy rate and allocates an average of 2 hours and 56 minutes of daily nurse staffing per resident. Payment options cover Medicare and direct private funds. Positioned in a neighborhood with a walk score of 79, the location is highly walkable, allowing independent, non-driving residents to manage daily errands nearby.
Interested families considering dedicated nursing support or memory care can contact Thrive of Fox Valley to check current opening availability or schedule a visit.
Jennings Terrace is an esteemed senior housing establishment proudly serving the Fox Valley area in Aurora, Illinois, for a remarkable duration of eight years. Jennings Terrace is dedicated to providing affordable and secure housing options tailored to the unique needs of seniors. With a comprehensive range of services, including skilled nursing and sheltered care, they ensure the utmost comfort and well-being of their residents. From elegantly designed single-room suites to spacious two-room options, residents can choose their preferred accommodations.
For those seeking respite care, Jennings Terrace offers private suites designed to deliver personalized and exceptional experiences. Additionally, they extend their compassionate services to individuals requiring hospice care, creating a supportive environment during challenging times. With on-site access to essential medical services such as x-rays and lab draws, as well as specialized podiatry and optometry offerings, residents receive comprehensive care within the convenience of their community.
Prepare for an extraordinary and refined experience at Alden Courts of Waterford. This exceptional home offers innovative services that encompass memory care, assisted living, skilled short-term rehabilitation, and Medicare coverage for individuals with memory care needs. Here, residents can gracefully navigate the challenges of memory impairment, thanks to unique therapy programs and life enrichment initiatives designed to provide support and promote well-being.
Alden Courts of Waterford also recognizes the importance of memory care insurance, ensuring that residents have access to the necessary coverage for their specialized care. With transparent memory care costs, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving exceptional care without hidden expenses. Immerse yourself in well-maintained and exquisite common spaces that exude a homelike ambiance. Located in the vibrant community of Aurora, Illinois, this is the place to be for those seeking unparalleled care and comfort.
Alden of Waterford provides nursing home and skilled nursing care in Aurora, IL. Licensed nurses are on site around the clock, and the home also provides short term rehabilitation, transitional care, and post acute services. The combination of nursing care and rehabilitation programs may suit someone recovering from an orthopedic, cardiac, neurostroke, or pulmonary condition during a short term stay.
The home has 99 beds, creating a mid sized setting for residents receiving nursing or rehabilitative care. Its comprehensive therapy program includes orthopedic, cardiac, neurostroke, and pulmonary rehabilitation, so these specific recovery needs can be addressed on site. A salon, along with hair and nail services, allows residents to handle personal grooming without arranging an outside appointment.
Total nurse staffing is 3 hours per resident per day. This represents the daily hands on nursing time allocated to each resident. Payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay.
The Pearl of Orchard Valley is a nursing home in Aurora, IL, that offers comprehensive care options, including long-term care, memory care, rehabilitation, and in-house dialysis. The community also ensures older adults are well-cared for with its supportive and welcoming environment. Therapy services, respite care, and 24-hour support are among the exceptional services provided to meet residents’ needs and preferences. Focusing on residents’ welfare, the community seamlessly combines compassionate care and clinical excellence.
Chess, light exercises, and fun gatherings provide residents with more opportunities to interact with friends and live actively. State-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment and spacious gathering areas are also available for residents’ relaxation and wellness. Restaurants, a bank, shops, bus stops, and green spaces also surround the area, ensuring a laid-back and convenient lifestyle. This nursing home has high standards of care, making it a great choice for senior living in Illinois.
Skilled nursing and nursing home care are Avantara Aurora’s work in Aurora, IL. Licensed nurses cover every hour for skilled nursing, and nursing home care answers a need for nursing that isn’t going away.
Short-Term Rehab and the Orthopedic Rehabilitation program serve those whose recovery calls for a limited stay and therapy after orthopedic treatment. Suites & Accommodations appears among the named programs too.
A salon and a lounge are among the amenities. Medicare and Medicaid are accepted, and so is private pay.
Elmwood Terrace is a recently renovated senior living facility in Illinois that has undergone a remarkable transformation, now offering state-of-the-art treatment and advanced technological solutions. The home specializes in providing exceptional short-term nursing and rehabilitation services. The team of highly tenured staff members brings a wealth of experience and expertise to deliver exceptional care, with certified nursing assistants available to provide personalized support. The facility also offers specialized wound care services to address individual needs effectively.
The facility is equipped with top-notch therapy resources that aim to optimize recovery and promote independence, tailoring treatment plans to the specific goals and capabilities of each resident. Moreover, the bilingual staff members are fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring effective communication and fostering a comfortable environment for Spanish-speaking residents. What’s more, Elmwood Terrace is a nursing home that accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
The Lakes and Superior at Waterford is a remarkable senior living facility located in the vibrant city of Aurora, Illinois. Set within a sprawling 38-acre campus, this community beautifully combines suburban charm with luxurious amenities, offering an unparalleled experience for residents in assisted living communities. From comprehensive assisted living options to specialized care for dementia patients, The Lakes and Superior at Waterford is dedicated to providing exceptional support and comfort for all.
Enjoy the convenience of transportation services, ensuring easy access to appointments and outings. Delight in restaurant-style dining, where every meal is a culinary experience to savor. Pamper yourself at the beauty salon, treating yourself to a rejuvenating makeover. And who can resist the irresistible delights of the on-site ice cream parlor? Immerse yourself in a world of luxury, where beautiful surroundings, top-notch amenities, and compassionate care create an engaging and fulfilling lifestyle at The Lakes and Superior at Waterford.
Live the retirement of your dreams at The Lakes/ Superior at Waterford, a vibrant community in Aurora, IL, offering independent living. With assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and a health care center, residents can easily access higher levels of care when needs arise. Well-thought-out and sophisticated two-bedroom floor plans are also provided, allowing residents to feel at ease during their stay.
A jam-packed calendar of fun recreational activities and enriching programs is conducted to keep residents active and socially connected. Mealtimes foster comfort and satisfy dietary needs with delicious and healthy dining options. Residents are guaranteed the finest retirement experience amidst the community’s vibrant and welcoming environment.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports. Rank badges compare each home against other nursing homes in the same state — never against assisted living, memory care, or independent living communities.
How we're paid:If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
Avg Overall CMS Rating:3.3/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Aurora, IL. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating:2.5/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Aurora, IL. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating:3.3/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Aurora, IL. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Aurora, IL
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Illinois?
Assisted living in Illinois is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.
Does Illinois Medicaid cover nursing home care?
Yes — Illinois Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.
What is nursing home care?
Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.
How many nursing homes are listed on this page?
This page features 10 nursing homes in Aurora, IL. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in Aurora, IL?
Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Aurora, IL, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.
What should I look for when visiting nursing homes in Aurora, IL?
Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.
If you move into a community through us, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never changes your cost or which options we recommend. Learn more
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