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Independent living

Ralston Mercy-Douglass House

Independent living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Checked November 2, 2026

Provider details
Address3817 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
CityPhiladelphia
StatePennsylvania
Phone(215) 382-5110
Age requirement62 and older
Age rule basisSection 202 is HUD's housing program for elderly households; eligibility requires the head of household to be age 62 or older.
Apartments55
Housing programHUD Section 202 PRAC
Income restrictedYes

Photos

Ralston Mercy-Douglass HouseRalston Mercy-Douglass HouseRalston Mercy-Douglass House

Photos from the provider's own website.

The Joseph J. Hill Ralston Mercy-Douglass House in Philadelphia offers 55 one-bedroom apartments for low-income seniors. The head of household must be 62 or older, and HUD income rules apply. Apartments have accessible kitchens and bathrooms, grab bars, and emergency pull cords, and the building has a community room, a coin-operated laundromat, and a Social Service Coordinator on staff. Residents also get common areas and organized activities and events.

Who pays for independent living?

What this care costs, and who pays — Medicare, Medicaid, or the family — is covered in these guides:

Independent living guide · Paying for care

Common questions about Ralston Mercy-Douglass House

Where is Ralston Mercy-Douglass House located?

Ralston Mercy-Douglass House is at 3817 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

How do I contact Ralston Mercy-Douglass House?

Call Ralston Mercy-Douglass House at (215) 382-5110.

How much does independent living cost?

There is no single price for independent living. Rent is set by each community and varies a lot by city. The cost survey this site uses does not publish a national median for independent living, so we do not print one. Medicare does not pay for it, so families pay the rent out of pocket. See our guide to independent living costs and who pays for the full picture.

Does Medicare pay for independent living?

No. Medicare does not pay rent or housing costs. It pays for your medical care while you live there, like doctor visits, hospital care, and home health visits. The housing itself is paid out of pocket.

What is the difference between independent living and assisted living?

Independent living is housing for older adults who can live on their own. It gives a private home, meals in some places, and social activities. It does not include help with daily tasks. Assisted living adds that help. Staff help with bathing, dressing, and medicine, and staff are on hand day and night.

Who else pays for independent living besides Medicare?

Families pay the rent out of pocket. No insurance pays for independent living rent. Low-income senior apartments funded by HUD keep rent lower for people who qualify. Some veterans put VA pension payments toward the rent.

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