Independent Living


The majority of Kendal at Oberlin’s living spaces are cottages and apartments for independent living. Cottages are spread across the campus and are connected by a series of covered and lighted walkways. The two-story apartment building is adjacent to the Heiser Community Center, with easy access to dining rooms, a library, creative workplaces, an auditorium and a well-equipped fitness center.

What Is Independent Living?

Independent living is designed for older adults who want freedom, convenience and a vibrant lifestyle without the responsibilities of homeownership. At our community situated in Lorain County in Oberlin, Ohio, independent living means enjoying comfortable residences, maintenance-free living and opportunities to stay active. Our scenic grounds feature ponds, wetlands and woodlands with walking trails that encourage outdoor activity and foster a meaningful relationship with the natural world.

Floor Plans


Kendal at Oberlin has been actively updating cottages and apartments for independent living, making them brighter and more energy-efficient. Floor plans range from a studio-style efficiency, up to a two-bedroom with den deluxe with two full baths (over 1,800 square feet). We are well into the process of updating our classic cottages, adding bright open kitchens, extended living room space with vaulted ceilings and new heating and cooling systems.

Apartments

Apartments

The two-story apartment building includes residences that range in size from a cozy studio suite to a spacious two-bedroom + den apartment. Recent updates are opening kitchen spaces, enhancing lighting and installing quieter climate control systems.

Renovated Cottages

Renovated Cottages

These single-floor homes range from a comfortable studio to a bright and airy two-bedroom + den space. Arranged in clusters of mixed sizes, these are spacious homes with open kitchens, large windows and efficient storage space.

Newer Cottages

Newer Cottages

Added to the campus between 2006 and 2011, these are larger spaces with features like 10-foot ceilings, utility rooms and walk-in closets. Newer cottages range in size from a one-bedroom space to a two-bedroom + den deluxe home with 1,874 square feet.

couple in cottage kitchen preparing a meal

Included Amenities


  • Flexible Meal Plan
  • Heat/Air Conditioning
  • Electricity
  • Basic Cable Service and Wireless Internet
  • Water and Sewer
  • Trash Removal
  • Groundskeeping and Snow Removal
  • Outside and Inside Maintenance
  • Limited Local Transportation – Within Lorain County

Additional Services for a Fee

  • Specialty Maintenance
  • Hair Salon

Frequently Asked Questions About Independent Living

How much does independent living at Kendal at Oberlin cost?

The pricing for independent living at Kendal at Oberlin, a life plan community located in northeast Ohio, varies by floor plan and contractual agreement. We offer a range of contractual agreements for residents moving to cottages and apartments, including our standard contract and lifecare Platinum and Gold agreements. Visit our Pricing Information page for specific entry fee and monthly fee details. You can also download a cost sheet of fees here.

What is included in the monthly fee?

Kendal at Oberlin’s independent living monthly fee includes a flexible meal plan, heat/air conditioning, electricity, basic cable service and wireless internet, water and sewer, trash removal, groundskeeping and snow removal, interior and exterior maintenance and transportation within Lorain County. Additional services such as specialty maintenance and hair salon services are available for an additional fee.

Is Kendal at Oberlin close to Cleveland, Ohio?

Yes, Kendal at Oberlin is located approximately 35 to 40 miles west of Cleveland, Ohio. You can drive to Downtown Cleveland in about 45 minutes, and the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in around 35 minutes. Additionally, our campus sits just one mile from Oberlin College and Conservatory.

How is independent living different from assisted living?

Independent living is ideal for older adults who don’t require assistance with daily activities, while assisted living provides hands-on personal care support for bathing, dressing and medication management. Independent living focuses on lifestyle, convenient amenities and planned activities, and assisted living provides assistance so residents can live more comfortably and get back to the activities they enjoy.

How do I know if independent living might be right for me?

Independent living may be right for you if you feel isolated at home, struggle with home maintenance and upkeep, want more social interaction, or are ready to simplify life while still fully independent. It’s a lifestyle decision rather than a care-driven one — many residents move in years before they need any assistance.

What happens if my care needs change after I move in?

If your care needs increase, Kendal at Oberlin offers access to higher levels of care, ensuring a smoother transition to assisted living, short-term rehab, long-term care or memory support. Choosing a community with multiple levels of care like Kendal at Oberlin lets you age in place without relocating to a new campus.

Would You Like to Learn More About Independent Living at Kendal?


Kendal at Oberlin is a vibrant life plan community.

Enjoy an active lifestyle, along with the peace-of-mind that comes with a lifecare agreement.