Friendship Towers in Erie, PA

Pros

• The place is very affordable and the staff are above average.
• The tenants and staff are kind and welcoming.
• It is very clean.
• It is great.
• A friend who lives there finds it very nice.

Cons

• Bad bugs are real.
• Roaches are real.
• Parking is horrible.
• They offered to pay for an assigned spot but never heard back.
• There are reports of bedbugs.

Review

Friendship Towers in Erie is best suited for seniors who want a budget-conscious, socially vibrant senior living option and are willing to trade some refinements for a warm, staffed-driven community. The reviews converge on a center of gravity: staff tend to be above average in attentiveness, and residents describe a welcoming, neighborly atmosphere where people know one another. Cleanliness is repeatedly noted, and a recent roof replacement signals ongoing maintenance. For families focused on predictable costs and genuine human warmth rather than luxury amenities, this facility presents a compelling value proposition. It's the kind of place where daily life feels manageable and social routines come together without undue stress.

By contrast, those who demand absolute pest-free living and dependable parking should look elsewhere. Several reviewers flag real pest issues - bedbugs and roaches - that persist despite basic upkeep and a sense of cleanliness. Parking is described as horrible, with at least one account of an assigned spot that never materialized, hinting at friction in how space is allocated. These operational headaches can erode peace of mind for residents who prize quiet and ease of mobility. In short, the environment can feel more convenient than luxurious, but pest control reliability and parking management are the decisive gaps.

Yet the strong positives do tilt the balance for many families. The affordability is not theoretical but tangible, allowing access to monthly budgets that leave room for other care needs. Staff kindness and a welcoming vibe help residents settle in quickly, making daily routines easier and social connections stronger. Cleanliness reinforces a sense of pride in the building, and the roof update reflects a willingness to invest in structural upkeep. Taken together, these attributes create a dependable, low-stress setting where seniors can focus on everyday life rather than fighting for basic comfort. In environments where these elements matter most, Friendship Towers earns trust.

Prospective residents should validate two critical details before moving in. First, confirm the pest situation and the facility's pest-control plan - what cycles exist, what treatments are used, and whether bedbug or roach incidents have been addressed recently. Second, inspect parking options at a personal tour; request concrete assignments and a written policy to avoid last-minute surprises. The new roof is a plus, but ongoing maintenance and reliable access to a preferred space matter as much as any visible amenity. If these practical aspects are managed well, the emotional benefits of a friendly, affordable community can shine through.

For families weighing options, it's wise to compare with other Erie communities that emphasize stronger pest management and more predictable parking logistics. If a secure, pest-free environment is non-negotiable, this may not be the best primary choice. On the other hand, for those who prize companionship, straightforward care routines, and a cost structure that leaves room for personal care or activities, Friendship Towers delivers a tangible advantage. Tour the property with questions ready, talk to current residents about their day-to-day experiences, and map out how much risk one is willing to tolerate regarding pests and parking.

In sum, Friendship Towers operates most effectively as a practical fit for budget-minded seniors who value community warmth and clean, maintained spaces. Its affordability, above-average staff, and welcoming atmosphere offset some flaws, particularly if pest issues are handled proactively and parking arrangements are clarified. Those unwilling to compromise on pest control or parking reliability should consider alternatives, but families comfortable with a trade-off will find a dependable, low-friction living option that supports independence without overcomplicating daily routines. A careful tour, candid questions, and a clear plan for pest management and parking will determine whether this Erie community aligns with the resident's priorities.

This part of Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a convenient and diverse range of amenities for seniors looking to settle in the area. With multiple dining options such as Taco Bell, Wendy's, and Shish Kabob Restaurant nearby, residents will have plenty of choices for meals. Additionally, there are pharmacies like Rite Aid and CVS Pharmacy within close proximity for any medication needs. For medical care, there are several physicians' offices including Community Health Net and Pediatric Ophthalmology of Erie within walking distance. The presence of UPMC Hamot Hospital and various healthcare facilities ensures easy access to quality medical services. Additionally, transportation is easily accessible with a bus station nearby, and parks like Liberty Park provide opportunities for leisurely strolls in the outdoors. Overall, this part of Erie offers convenience and essential services for seniors looking to make it their home.

Restaurants

• Taco Bell (0 miles)
• Wendy's (0.1 miles)
• Shish Kabob Restaurant (0.1 miles)
• Calamari's Squid Row (0.2 miles)
• Arby's (0.2 miles)
• Lavery Brewing Company (0.3 miles)
• The Brewerie at Union Station (0.3 miles)

Physicians

• Community Health Net (0.1 miles)
• Pediatric Ophthalmology of Erie (0.3 miles)
• Erie Psychiatric Associates (0.3 miles)
• Advanced Pain Medicine (0.6 miles)
• UPMC Hamot PASE Center (0.6 miles)
• Hamot Medical Center (0.6 miles)
• Presque Isle Plastic Surgery (0.6 miles)

Cafes

• Tim Hortons (0.1 miles)
• Ember + Forge (0.6 miles)
• Fat Lenny s (0.7 miles)

Pharmacies

• Rite Aid (0.2 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (0.4 miles)
• Rite Aid (1.1 miles)
• Rite Aid (1.1 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
• Walgreens (1.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)

Places of Worship

• Cathedral of St Paul Episcopal (0.4 miles)
• Islamic Association of Erie (0.8 miles)
• Erie United Methodist Alliance (1.5 miles)

Hospitals

• UPMC Hamot Radiology (0.7 miles)
• UPMC Hamot Infusion Center (0.7 miles)
• UPMC Hamot 7 South (0.7 miles)
• Healthsouth (0.7 miles)
• UPMC Hamot 8 South (0.7 miles)
• UPMC Womens Hospital 5th Floor (0.7 miles)
• St Vincent Wound Clinic (0.9 miles)

Transportation

• Bus Station (0.9 miles)

Parks

• Liberty Park (1.3 miles)