Ben PhilipFair Haven Retirement Community is designed to provide seniors with a welcoming, supportive, and vibrant environment where they can enjoy their golden years with peace of mind. With a focus on comfort, safety, and lifestyle enrichment, Fair Haven offers a combination of quality housing, healthcare support, and engaging activities. It is more than just a residence—it is a community where friendships thrive, interests are pursued, and residents feel at home.
Fair Haven Retirement Community
Location and Setting
Fairhaven sits on a scenic 300-acre wooded property in Sykesville, Maryland, offering a serene and nature-rich atmosphere for residents.
Campus Upgrades
In recent years, the campus underwent a significant 11.5 million dollar renovation, elevating the experience with contemporary improvements across amenities and infrastructure.
Recognition
It received the prestigious 2025 Readers’ Choice Award for Best Retirement Community from Carroll Magazine.
Living Options
The community provides independent living with a diverse selection of housing—including villas, cottages, and apartments. It also offers on-site healthcare services under predictable pricing structures with three options tailored to resident needs.
Lifestyle and Activities
A vibrant activity calendar includes hobbies, classes, and outdoor pursuits that foster active living and community engagement.
Detailed Insights into Fair Haven — Birmingham, Alabama
Fair Haven Retirement Community in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a warm and dynamic senior living experience grounded in faith and community care.
Continuum of Care
Offering independent living, assisted living, and full care under the household model, residents benefit from flexible support that adapts to changing needs—all on a single campus.
Health Services On-Site
Residents have access to UAB geriatric physicians and UAB dental services, along with an on-site Senior Care Pharmacy offering seven-day service and Medicare Part D assistance.
Amenities and Community Life
Fair Haven embodies a “town hub” concept, featuring:
- Chapel and chaplaincy for spiritual connection
- Bistro, café, library, beauty/barber salon, ice cream parlor, gift shop, and Nearly New Shop
- Grand living room with baby grand piano
- Partially covered balconies, offering indoor–outdoor comfort
- Scheduled transportation, including vans for shopping and outings
- Diverse events: dinner theater, mystery dinners, Fall Frolic, game nights, performances, and more
Resident Experiences
“The updated decor, the food, the care provided – I frequently recommend moving to Fair Haven to my friends. I’ve already brought two over here!” – Betty Howard, resident since 2014.
Pricing Snapshot (Assisted Living)
Competitive pricing when compared to county and state averages:
Unit Type | Fair Haven (AL) | Jefferson County Avg | Alabama Avg |
| ——— | ————— | ——————– | ————- |
Studio | \$1,793/month | \$4,002/month | \$3,279/month |
1-Bedroom | \$3,140/month | \$3,094/month | \$3,417/month |
2-Bedroom | \$3,460/month | \$3,079/month | \$3,788/month |
Pros and Cons Based on Feedback
- Strengths: Excellent food, engaging activities, clean facility, caring staff, and good communication with families
- Concerns: Isolated reports of staff mistreatment resulting in injuries, dismissive responses to important health concerns, and billing issues—highlighting that experiences can vary
Accreditation and Governance
Not BBB-accredited, but holds an A+ BBB rating. It was established in 1961 and is managed by executives including President/CEO Christopher W. Tomlin, VP/COO Mike Giles, and many years of leadership continuity.
Summary Comparison
Feature | Fairhaven (Sykesville, MD) | Fair Haven (Birmingham, AL) |
| —————– | ———————————————- | ——————————————————– |
Setting | 300-acre wooded campus, recent renovation | Gated, community “town hub,” faith-centered |
Care Levels | Independent living + on-site healthcare | Full continuum: Independent → Assisted → Skilled nursing |
Medical Services | On-campus healthcare options | UAB medical & dental clinics, 24/7 pharmacy |
Fees | Not specified | Transparent pricing with competitive local rates |
Amenities | Variety in residences, activity-rich lifestyle | Extensive on-site amenities and curated events |
Reputation | Award-winning, highly rated | Positive but mixed; praise with some concerns |
Staff and Culture | Not detailed | Mission-driven, though some stress reported |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Fair Haven Retirement Community?
A. Fair Haven Retirement Community is a residential development tailored for retirees who desire an active, secure, and fulfilling lifestyle. It combines well-designed homes, on-site services, and community amenities to create a living environment that meets the needs of older adults.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community has a substantial number of homes that are thoughtfully planned to balance privacy with a sense of neighborhood closeness. While the exact number varies depending on expansions, it is designed to comfortably house residents while maintaining open green spaces and communal areas.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Fair Haven offers a variety of living options including cottages, villas, apartments, and assisted living residences. These housing types cater to different preferences and needs, whether residents prefer independent living or require a higher level of care.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Amenities include dining facilities, a library, fitness centers, walking trails, chapels for spiritual growth, salons, and common lounges. In addition, residents have access to activity rooms, transportation services, and special event venues, ensuring convenience and enjoyment in everyday living.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes, Fair Haven provides opportunities for lifelong learning through workshops, lectures, cultural programs, and guest speakers. These programs help residents stay mentally engaged and connected to current events and ideas.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. On-site healthcare services are available, and the community is also situated close to reputable hospitals and medical centers. This ensures residents have immediate access to quality medical care whenever needed.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. The community has its own dining services that provide nutritious and delicious meals daily. Beyond the community, residents enjoy proximity to shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants, giving them a variety of options for dining out or purchasing personal items.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Fair Haven is located near parks, golf courses, cultural centers, and local attractions. Residents can enjoy outdoor walks, group trips, concerts, and art exhibits, along with in-house recreational activities such as game nights, music programs, and exercise classes.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents are encouraged to participate in community committees, which may include dining committees, activity planning groups, wellness programs, and volunteer initiatives. These committees give residents a voice in shaping the community and foster active participation.
Conclusion
Fair Haven Retirement Community provides seniors with an ideal blend of independence, support, and opportunities for growth. From thoughtfully designed homes to a wealth of amenities and healthcare accessibility, it ensures that every resident feels both secure and fulfilled. It is not just a place to live but a place to thrive.