Merrill Gardens At The University
$3,600 – $7,600/mo
Starting price
Assisted Living
Care types
1 Bedroom
Room options
Yes
Wheelchair access
About Merrill Gardens At The University
Merrill Gardens At The University brings together the energy of Seattle’s University District with the comfort of a thoughtfully designed senior living community. Residents choose from spacious apartments with full kitchens, enjoying the freedom to cook or join friends for restaurant-style meals any time of day. The community buzzes with activity—fitness classes, movie nights, outings, and a packed calendar managed by a dedicated Active Living Program Director. A shared courtyard with The Corydon apartment complex creates a rare multi-generational vibe, while the Burke-Gilman Trail and University Village shopping center are just steps away. Staff know residents by name, and families consistently mention feeling reassured by the attentive, communicative care team. Highlights: Anytime dining flexibility, lively social calendar, and a location that puts Seattle’s best within easy reach.
Our Care Approach
Care here focuses on supporting independence while providing attentive assistance with daily needs. Staff are described as patient and respectful, offering medication reminders, bathing and dressing help, and personalized care plans. The wellness team is noted for stepping up during health changes, ensuring residents feel supported through recovery.
Family Experience
Families visiting Merrill Gardens At The University often mention how welcomed they feel, with staff communication highlighted as clear and caring. Many express relief knowing their loved ones are safe, engaged, and forming meaningful friendships. The central courtyard and variety of activities make visits enjoyable and reassuring.
Care & Services
Services and care programs available at Merrill Gardens At The University.
Medical Care Services
24-hour nursing support, medication management, and health monitoring are available, with staff ready to assist as needs change.
Personal Care Services
Help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation is provided, always aiming to preserve residents’ dignity and independence.
Specialized Care
Memory care is not specifically mentioned in the provided data; care focuses on assisted living and supporting daily activities.
Interested in learning more about the care options?
Living Environment
Cleanliness & Maintenance
Reviews and community updates note well-kept apartments, landscaped grounds, and recent building improvements, suggesting strong attention to upkeep.
Atmosphere & Community Feel
The community is described as bright, energetic, and social, with a mix of scheduled events and casual gatherings that help residents connect.
Safety & Security
24-hour staffing, a resident call system, and modern electronic security provide families with added peace of mind.
Amenities
Reviews
Based on 53 reviews
Families and residents overwhelmingly praise the friendly, attentive staff and the vibrant, engaging atmosphere. Many highlight how quickly loved ones adjusted and formed new friendships, thanks to frequent social events and a welcoming environment. A few mention that food quality can vary, but overall satisfaction with care and community life is very high.
- Staff know residents by name and go out of their way to help
- Lively calendar of events and activities keeps everyone engaged
- Beautiful, well-maintained grounds and recent building improvements
- Food can be hit or miss for some residents
- Limited specific negative feedback in provided reviews
Jackie Medjo
The staff are all very friendly and eager to help in any way they can to make things work for the residents. They know and call all residents by name.
melisse barrett
My mother joined this community last July and was apprehensive about leaving her home of sixty years after my father passed. She has happily adjusted well and has met many other residents who have led quite interesting lives! The staff is wonderful, attentive and patient. They truly seem devoted to the community there. The only complaint she has is that the food can be hit or miss. But she always liked to cook, so that is somewhat understandable. For my part, I am happy she is safe and closer to me, rather than a bridge away!! I feel very good about her care there.
scott lowe
Our family is very happy with the care and consideration our mother is shown at Merrill Gardens at the University. The staff members are attentive and communicative. Our mother’s multiple needs are met, her room is well tended, she is kept busy, she is fond of everyone there. And we’re glad to know she’s safe. We are very happy to have her at Merrill Gardens at the University
8 more residents rated this community with an average of 4.9 stars
Families love this community. See if it’s the right fit for you.
Pricing
$3,600 – $7,600/mo
Pricing varies by room type, care level, and services selected.
Available Room Types
Value Consideration
With monthly costs starting below the Seattle area average and a wide range of amenities—from anytime dining to fitness programs and social outings—the community offers strong value. Families mention that the combination of location, care quality, and vibrant community life makes the investment feel worthwhile.
Location & Neighborhood
About the Area
Merrill Gardens At The University sits in Seattle’s lively University District, close to the University of Washington, University Village shopping center, and the Burke-Gilman Trail. The area blends academic energy with convenient shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation, offering both urban access and peaceful green spaces.
Nearby Attractions
- University Village shopping center
- Burke-Gilman Trail
- University of Washington campus
Public Transportation
- Convenient to public transit options in Seattle’s University District
- Complimentary community transportation for errands and appointments
Questions & Answers
Community Updates
Latest News
2025-10-01T17:09:00.000Z
Retirement is a major milestone. This is a time of excitement, exploration, and freedom. However, it can also come with a few unexpected challenges. One prevalent issue that some seniors experience is the shrinking of social groups. Many don’t see their friends and colleagues as often which can lead to loneliness. How can you expand your social network and make new friends in retirement? A good number of active older adults are opting to move to senior living communities for an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Watch this video to learn about the social benefits of a senior living community:
2025-09-26T20:41:51.000Z
Leaving a longtime home can feel overwhelming—but it can also open the door to a new beginning filled with connection, comfort, and support. 💛 In our latest blog, guest blogger Eric Johnson shares how his mom making the move to senior living is not just about leaving a home, but about finding a new one. 👉 Read more here:
2025-09-11T17:02:16.000Z
Today, on 9/11, we take the time to remember the 3,000 people who lost their lives 24 years ago. We will never forget.
2025-09-01T17:03:09.000Z
Happy Labor Day! Thank you to all our incredibly hard working team members for your dedication, compassion, and expertise. We’re so grateful for everything you do to make our community a place where everyone feels like family. Enjoy your well-deserved day of recognition! 😊
2025-08-28T17:01:28.000Z
Touring a senior living community helps you see daily life, meet caring team members, and find the perfect fit for you or your loved one. Want to know what questions to ask during your visit? Check out our latest blog for helpful tips! 📖✨ Click here to read more:
2025-08-20T20:14:27.000Z
How can you expand your social network and make new friends in retirement? Many older adults are opting to move to senior living communities for an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Check out this one-minute video to learn the social benefits of senior living:
2025-08-15T18:40:17.000Z
Did you know nearly 40% of seniors aren’t drinking enough water? 💧 Keep your body running smoothly with our simple hydration hacks for older adults: store water nearby, snack on hydrating fruits, or set helpful reminders. Learn more in our latest blog:
2025-08-06T16:32:12.000Z
Calling all Merrill Gardens at The University residents! Have you heard of our Good Friends Make Great Neighbors program? It’s the ultimate win/win — you refer a friend who moves in and the two of the split $2,000! Call (206) 523-8400 today to learn more.
2025-07-31T21:30:39.000Z
Thinking about moving to a senior living community? Our latest blog shares what to expect—more peace of mind, engaging activities, and a supportive environment. ✨ Discover how your next chapter can be vibrant and stress-free by clicking here:
2025-07-25T15:47:23.000Z
Discover why so many people make the move to senior living by reading our brand new blog! With everything from enriching activities and supportive team members, to the sense of belonging and purpose they experience daily, hear from real residents by clicking here:
Ready to learn more about Merrill Gardens At The University?
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