Living Out Palm Springs: An Unparalleled Approach to Living and Aging
When envisioning the ideal place to age gracefully, most people imagine a setting that is comfortable combining independence, community, and opportunities for personal growth. Living Out, located in the heart of Palm Springs, California, has brought this vision to life. I recently had the pleasure of touring this exceptional apartment complex for older adults, and my experience confirmed that it is a standout destination for active adults aged 55+ who want to embrace the next chapter of their lives with vitality and elegance.
A southeast view from the veranda of one of the Living Out Palm Springs residences. With ADA compliant access, the broad doors have a sliding, tinted glass and a screen door. The veranda has space for comfortable seating. the view looks out over the main entry of the property onto Palm Springs punctuated with several palms backed by the epic, craggy majesty of Mount San Jacinto. “The Witch” formation is just out of view.
A Snapshot of the Community
Living Out Palm Springs, which opened its doors in August 2023, was founded by Loren S Ostrow and Paul Alanis, industry veterans with a rich history in hospitality and casino development. Their dream was “to create a safe, supportive, and enriched living environment in which LGBTQ seniors can live openly and thrive” redefining independence, and they have succeeded. Currently, Living Out has over 100 residents. The average resident age is approximately 72, and the community attracts individuals and couples from across North America who are seeking a warm, vibrant environment where they can remain socially and physically active.
Residents can choose from several floor plans, ranging from a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit (nearly 1,000 square feet) to a spacious two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom unit with a den (1,800 square feet). Each residence includes a veranda, allowing residents to enjoy the stunning Palm Springs landscape. Rent ranges from $4,900 to $8,400 per month and is all-inclusive, making it a seamless living experience.
Thoughtful Amenities and Features
Living Out is more than a place to live; it is a place to thrive. It offers a comprehensive array of amenities designed to provide an elegant and active lifestyle for its residents. Here's an overview of the key features:
Dining and Culinary Services:
Alice B. Restaurant & Bar: Under the direction of nationally renowned chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, this upscale full-service restaurant and bar offers residents, their guests, and the public a memorable culinary experience.
Café Services: Residents can enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts, casual coffee, grab-and-go lunches, and refreshing soft-serve ice cream as part of the community's culinary offerings. Bonnie informed me breakfast is a highly social time as residents come together and connect first thing in the morning through lunch.
Health and Wellness:
Fully Equipped Fitness Center: The fitness center features a full range of cardiovascular and strength training equipment, and a group fitness room, to support residents in achieving their fitness goals. Also included is access to consultation by the Fitness director.
Hair, Manicure, Pedicure, and Massage Services: On-site salon services are available, including styling, coloring, manicures, pedicures, and massages, all conveniently arranged through the concierge.
Eisenhower Wellness Center: An on-site wellness center offering Level 1 services, operated in partnership with Eisenhower Health, provides residents with access to healthcare services, wellness programs, and priority access at Eisenhower Urgent Care.
Recreation and Social Spaces:
Screening Room: A private screening room outfitted with sophisticated sound technology and comfortable reclining seats offers residents and their guests a luxurious movie experience.
Community, Game, and Card Rooms: These spaces provide venues for socializing, playing games, and engaging in various activities with fellow residents. Community puzzles are typically completed in record time as residents make contributions to the effort.
Art Studio: A professionally designed art studio is available for residents to explore their creativity and participate in artistic endeavors.
Outdoor Amenities:
Swimming Pool & Spa: The community features a luxurious swimming pool and spa area for relaxation and recreation.
Dog Park: A real turf dog park provides a dedicated space for residents' pets to play and exercise. Additionally, there is 5000 square feet of retail space dedicated to pets.
Bocce Ball and Putting Green: Outdoor recreational facilities include a bocce ball court and a challenging putting green for residents to enjoy.
Beautifully Landscaped Grounds: The community is set on over 9 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with walking trails throughout, allowing residents to enjoy the natural beauty of Palm Springs. The thoughtfully curated and cultivated scenery, including a citrus orchard, offers a peaceful enclosure nestled amidst the lively town of Palm Springs boasting both serenity and access.
Also Included in the Lease:
All utilities, except phone
Weekly housekeeping services
Bi-annual deep cleaning services
Electric car charging facility
Transportation to/from local venues
On-site & virtual concierge services
Covered, assigned parking
Large resident lounge
300 pieces of original artwork by LGBTQ desert artists
Four community BBQ areas
Three outdoor spas
Three real grass event lawns
Beautiful community fire pit
These amenities are thoughtfully designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community atmosphere and rejuvenating ambiance. Living Out anticipates growth in the near future, including additional locations and expanded service lines. This commitment to continual growth and development ensures that residents will benefit from evolving opportunities and amenities.
My Visit
From the moment I arrived, it was evident that Living Out Palm Springs is designed to provide an exceptional experience. The front gate is equipped with an easy-to-use touchscreen kiosk, which connected me with a friendly staff member who welcomed me in. Parking was a breeze, and the layout of the property, with its three-story building arranged in a central hub-and-spoke design, was both functional and inviting.
The landscaping and outdoor common areas are meticulously maintained, creating a serene environment framed by breathtaking views of the epic San Jacinto Mountain. Sitting on the main veranda, I could feel the peaceful yet rejuvenating ambiance that permeates the community.
My tour guide, Bonnie Budd, a former hospital administrator with decades of experience, highlighted the myriad ways in which Living Out enables residents to live independently while enjoying a high standard of comfort and quality of life. Bonnie’s enthusiasm for the community was palpable as she showcased its many features and the care taken to ensure comfort, ambiance, and accessibility, such as vivid, well-curated art, ADA-compliant designs, and walk-in closets in every residence.
The emphasis on personal expression was evident in the exceptional art collection displayed throughout the halls, all created by desert artists. Residents can even adorn their verandas with art, provided it meets the community’s standards for creative excellence.
A Community Designed for Fulfillment
Living Out’s philosophy centers on giving residents the tools to live longer, healthier, and more independent lives. This approach resonates throughout the community, from the high-quality amenities to the thoughtful layout and design. The inclusion of pets—with a maximum of two per household and an unofficial weight limit of 100 pounds—further underscores the community’s commitment to enhancing quality of life.
As the community grows, it is poised to welcome new residents, including those impacted by the recent Southern California coastal wildfires. The openness to growing a supportive communitreflects the inclusive and forward-thinking ethos of Living Out.
Final Thoughts
My visit to Living Out was an eye-opening experience. This is not just a retirement community; it is a place where individuals can optimize their lives, surrounded by natural beauty, luxury amenities, and a vibrant social atmosphere. If you or a loved one are 55+ and seeking a LGBTQ supportive community that redefines independent living, Living Out Palm Springs deserves your attention.
For more information, I encourage you to visit their website at https://livingout.com and explore their comprehensive list of amenities and details. Living Out is more than a residence—it is a way of living fully for those who want to age in good company and make the most of life.
The main front entry for Living Out Palm Springs has a spacious drive up to the front door with a covered awning and seating. Landscaping includes varieties of desert-loving plants from agaves to vivid bougainvillea.
