Page 2 of Best Assisted Living in Cary, NC

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 21 assisted living communities in Cary, NC using NC Dept. of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank assisted living in NC
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jul 2026
We analyzed These are the facilities in Cary, NC our team has analyzed — not a count of every assisted living provider in Cary, NC.
21 homes
Other senior care options in Cary:
Avg Walk Score: 36/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Cary, NC. A third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100) measuring convenience and context, not healthcare quality. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 50/ 100
Avg No. of Beds: 45The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Cary, NC. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Assisted Living around Cary (Metro Area)

Info below is compiled from the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking methodology.

Care Types in This Table AL (Assisted Living): Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing. NH (Nursing Home): 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility): Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. MC (Memory Care): Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. RC (Respite Care): Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break. RESC (Residential Care): Personal care and daily-living support in a smaller, more intimate residential setting. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care. PC (Palliative Care):
City and state of the facility. Used for mapping and state-average comparisons.
Licensed bed capacity (maximum allowed). Not the same as how many beds are currently filled.
Indicates whether residents are allowed to have pets in the facility.
Third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100). Convenience/context metric, not a healthcare quality measure.
Reported or derived occupancy for the facility—typically how fully licensed capacity is utilized. Compare across peers in the same market.
Better Business Bureau grade for the operating company. Reflects complaint handling and business practices, not clinical care quality.
NC DHSR Star Rating (0–4 stars). Issued by North Carolina's Division of Health Service Regulation based on annual facility inspections. Stars reflect overall compliance with state health and safety rules - 4 stars requires scores of 100+ on two consecutive annual inspections. Ratings can change between inspections if new violations or licensure actions occur.
DHSR Quality Score (/200). Each annual inspection starts at a base of 100 points. Facilities earn demerit points for violations and citations, and merit points for correcting issues, maintaining resident/family councils, sprinkler systems, and other quality programs. The "/200" display reflects the two most recent annual inspections combined - giving a longer-term view of compliance trends rather than a single snapshot.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
Share of inspections that resulted in deficiencies, expressed as a percentage of total inspections in the window.
Housing or bed configuration options (e.g. studio, shared), often from facility-reported amenities and licensing details.
Woodland Terrace
AL
IL
MC
Cary
84
Facility 84
NC AVG 72
Rank #135 / 387
No
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 36
Rank #111 / 536
--
95.75/200
Facility 95.75/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #209 / 321
19
84%
Facility 84%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #234 / 333
-
Waltonwood – Cary
AL
IL
MC
Cary (Ridgepath)
57
Facility 57
NC AVG 72
Rank #277 / 387
Yes
22
Facility 22
NC AVG 36
Rank #360 / 536
--
101.50/200
Facility 101.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #103 / 321
16
81%
Facility 81%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #189 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Swift Creek Health Center
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Cary (Ponderosa)
3
Facility 3
NC AVG 72
Rank #383 / 387
No
42
Facility 42
NC AVG 36
Rank #211 / 536
86.7% ------
The Retreat at Cary
AL
PC
RESC
Cary
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 72
Rank #335 / 387
No
14
Facility 14
NC AVG 36
Rank #424 / 536
--
101.50/200
Facility 101.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #103 / 321
5
20%
Facility 20%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #6 / 333
-
Phoenix Assisted Care
AL
MC
RC
Cary (Parkway Retirement Center)
120
Facility 120
NC AVG 72
Rank #35 / 387
No
24
Facility 24
NC AVG 36
Rank #349 / 536
52.5% A+-
0.00/200
Facility 0.00/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #305 / 321
42
86%
Facility 86%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #255 / 333
Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms
Searstone Retirement Community
AL
IL
MC
NH
SNF
Cary
-Yes
49
Facility 49
NC AVG 36
Rank #162 / 536
-A+-----
Avendelle on Tyrion
AL
Cary (Summerwinds)
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 72
Rank #335 / 387
Yes
41
Facility 41
NC AVG 36
Rank #220 / 536
--
105.50/200
Facility 105.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #5 / 321
6
50%
Facility 50%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #21 / 333
-
The Templeton of Cary
AL
IL
MC
NH
SNF
Cary (Ponderosa)
-Yes
46
Facility 46
NC AVG 36
Rank #186 / 536
------1 Bed / 2 Bed
Avendelle at MacArthur
AL
Cary
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 72
Rank #335 / 387
No
15
Facility 15
NC AVG 36
Rank #414 / 536
--
107.50/200
Facility 107.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #1 / 321
1
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 333
Private Rooms
Atria Cary
AL
IL
MC
Cary
-Yes
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 36
Rank #309 / 536
------1 Bed / 2 Bed

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every NC community we track that reports that metric, not just the 21 analyzed for Cary.

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Overview of Woodland Terrace

The 84-bed Arboretum at Woodland Terrace, located in Cary at 300 Kildaire Woods Dr, Wake County, North Carolina, provides specialized memory care for residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Executive Director Amanda Klobuchar oversees the specialized memory care community, which has maintained an active license throughout 27 years of continuous operation.

All 19 inspections since 2015 documented 43 deficiencies with no fines; deficiency rates of 3.9 per year are 7% better than North Carolina’s average. Most significantly, a March 2024 complaint investigation substantiated resident abuse; a staff member was terminated and criminally charged, though witnesses failed to intervene or report. January 2024 inspections cited food safety, resident screening, and tuberculosis testing deficiencies. The June 2025 follow-up confirmed all prior deficiencies had been corrected, with registered nurses providing 1 hour of care per resident daily, 71% above the state average.

Signature programming at the Arboretum includes the Art of Living Well®, Music & Memory (a specialized dementia-focused therapeutic approach), aquatics, and gardening activities designed to promote engagement and well-being. Residents benefit from comprehensive medication management, personal care assistance, three daily meals plus snacks, laundry and housekeeping services, scheduled transportation, recreational day trips, and planned social and educational events.

Pets are welcomed, and the facility’s 3-story building includes studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans ranging from 492 to 1,650 square feet.

The facility’s Woodland Terrace location carries a walk score of 55, indicating moderate walkability with some nearby amenities accessible on foot.

Memory care in a smaller, intimate setting with strong nursing presence characterizes The Arboretum at Woodland Terrace; its 39% occupancy reflects demand below the North Carolina state average of 76.4%.

Contact Woodland Terrace

Overview of Waltonwood – Cary

Experience redefined retirement living at Waltonwood’s Luxurious Senior Living. This community’s mission goes beyond being just another Senior Community. They strive to treat each resident and family member with dignity, respect, and personalized care that exceeds expectations. Committed to upholding a “Tradition of Excellence,” Waltonwood is dedicated to going above and beyond for residents and their families.

This care facility offers a lifestyle of utmost independence and choice, surrounded by warm and inviting environments, comfortable amenities, and a compassionate staff. Waltonwood places a strong emphasis on providing personalized services that cater to individual needs, ensuring residents have the freedom to live life on their own terms. The community’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail create an environment where residents can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling retirement experience. With a range of living options available, residents can select from luxurious Independent Living cottages and apartments with optional services, Assisted Living apartments providing customized support, and specialized care for individuals with Dementia/Alzheimer’s. 

Contact Waltonwood – Cary

Overview of Swift Creek Health Center

Swift Creek Health Center, located in Cary, NC, is the healthcare arm of Templeton of Cary, providing assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services to their residents. This healthcare facility offers skilled nursing services as well as rehabilitation services provided by their RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, under the supervision of a medical doctor who also serves as the medical director.
As part of Templeton of Cary, the residents of Swift Creek Health Center also receive the same services that provide both comfort and convenience. This included concierge, weekly housekeeping and linen service, peal preparation and delivery, and scheduled transportation among other things.

Contact Swift Creek Health Center

Overview of The Retreat at Cary

The Retreat at Cary, located in Cary, NC, is a close-knit senior living community offering elderly care together with its sister facility in the area, The Retreat at Cary Corner. They offer round the clock supervision with a 1:3 staff to resident ratio, ensuring that the residents are well cared for. Other services they offer include medication management, and assistance with daily living activities such as bathing and dressing, feeding, and toileting.

The residents of The Retreat at Cary are also provided meals that match their dietary needs, as well as housekeeping and laundry services. They also encourage residents to participate in their daily activities that targets their physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual well being.

Contact The Retreat at Cary

Overview of Phoenix Assisted Care

Phoenix Assisted Care, located in Cary, NC, is a senior living community offering assisted living, memory care, and independent living services and amenities. Their memory care program is specifically designed for caring for their residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Designed to provide a home away from home, this senior living community offers medical support, from assistance with daily living activities, medication management and coordination with other healthcare providers as needed.

Additionally, residents are provided meals that are prepared to cater to their preferences and dietary needs. They also offer transportation services for outside appointments, as well as housekeeping and salon services.

Contact Phoenix Assisted Care

Overview of Searstone Retirement Community

Searstone Retirement Community, located in Cary, NC, is a senior living community offering a range of services from assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing services. Their professional caring staff works closely with the residents as well as their families, in creating individualized care plans, in order to determine and meet the residents’ specific care needs.

Their First class skilled nursing services provides residents with 24/7 staff availability for supervision and assistance, round the clock personalized care, medication administration and management, and access to medical care on site as well as other professional services. Additionally their amenities like concierge and transportation services, meal provision and housekeeping and linen service, as well as 24/hr security and emergency call response, enhances the residents experiences during their stay at Searstone.

Contact Searstone Retirement Community

Overview of Avendelle on Tyrion

Avendelle on Tyrion, located in Cary, NC, is a senior living community by Avendelle offering assisted living services and amenities to its residents. This senior living community provides its residents 24 hour personalized care and supervision, weekly checks and monthly assessment, as well as assistance with medication management and administration. Additionally, all accommodation units come with a cable tv, and the community is equipped with alarm systems.

Avendelle on Tyrion also offers a number of amenities and services designed to provide convenience and comfort. This includes visiting physicians and hairdressers, meal provisions, and housekeeping and laundry services. They also have an activity room where residents can engage, and socialize with staff as well as other residents.

Contact Avendelle on Tyrion

Overview of The Templeton of Cary

The Templeton of Cary is a top-rated retirement community in Cary, NC, offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. The community’s nurturing and home-like setting ensures older adults’ comfort and safety. Exceptional services, including weekly housekeeping, concierge, and well-balanced meals, are also provided to enrich residents’ living experiences. Focusing on residents’ holistic well-being, the community provides care plans tailored to their ever-changing needs and habits.

Arts and crafts, games, and seminars are among the many recreational programs that aim to help residents explore new hobbies and have fun. Residents can also focus on relaxation and wellness, with first-class amenities including a saltwater pool, a library, and an outdoor grassy area. WakeMed Cary Hospital, restaurants, shops, and bus stops are also available in the area, providing convenient access to healthcare and other necessities. This retirement community is a great choice for senior living in North Carolina, especially with its wide range of care dedicated to helping older adults age gracefully.

Contact The Templeton of Cary

Overview of Avendelle at MacArthur

Avendelle at MacArthur is a supportive assisted living community in Cary, NC, that offers 24-hour personalized care. The community has six private rooms, designed for older adults’ comfort and safety. Educational activities, an emergency alert system, and concierge services are also offered to enrich residents’ living experiences. With its dedication to residents’ welfare, the community strives to create care plans tailored to their unique needs.

For residents’ holistic wellness, social activities, recreational programs, and light exercises are conducted. A nurse on the team also provides weekly health checks and monthly assessments to ensure up-to-date information about residents’ health. Overlooking the scenic Bond Lake and Oxford Hunt Greenway, the community ensures a laid-back retirement. This assisted living community is a top choice for older adults in North Carolina, especially with its nurturing environment and cozy living spaces.

Contact Avendelle at MacArthur

Overview of Atria Cary

Bask in the sunlight in Atria Cary, a blissful senior living community located in the peaceful neighborhood of Regency Parkway, Cary, NC providing independent living. Together with trusted partners, the community offers physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Cozy and elegant floor plans including one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments fully equipped with kitchens and other basic necessities are available for seniors’ choices and desires. The community ensures a relaxing and safe stay with a team of kind and compassionate professionals delivering top-tier care and assistance around the clock.

Atria Cary promotes an active and connected environment, providing all-around amenities and services. With its signature Engage Life program, residents experience a wide range of learning opportunities and programs to enhance their quality of life. Enjoy wonderful conversations with friends over healthy and delicious chef-prepared meals three times daily in different dining venues. The pet-friendly community provides an indoor swimming pool, a library, a movie theater, a fitness center, a physical therapy center, a salon, a game room, a putting green, and serene walking paths for seniors’ leisure and wellness.

Contact Atria Cary

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Resident Experience
  • 25%
    Regulatory
  • 15%
    Visual Media
  • 10%
    Website
  • 10%
    Stability
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Resident & Family Experience 35%

The single largest share of every ranking. Aggregated review sentiment and volume from major platforms — the closest signal to real resident experience.

  • Includes
  • Review Sentiment
  • Review Volume
02

Regulatory & Safety Record 25%

State inspection records, citations, and complaint visits. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • State Inspections
  • Citations/Inspection
  • % Inspections w/ Citations
  • Complaint Visits
  • Accreditations
  • BBB Rating
03

Visual Media & Transparency 15%

Communities that publish high-quality visuals give families a real preview. No photos or tours = a negative transparency signal.

  • Includes
  • Video Tours
  • Virtual Walkthroughs
  • Photo Quantity
  • Photo Quality
04

Website & Operator Transparency 10%

Site quality and whether the operator publishes basic accountability information — staff names, contact details, ownership.

  • Includes
  • Website Content
  • Mobile Usability
  • Staff Info Available
  • Owner Info Available
05

Community Stability 10%

Operational signals indicating whether a community is well-run and meeting demand.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy Rate
  • Bed Options
06

Environment & Pricing 5%

Walkability and pricing transparency. Walk Score is weighted higher for Independent Living than for Memory Care, where most residents do not leave unaccompanied.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • Pricing Transparency
No paid rankings Communities cannot pay to influence placement.
How we're paid: If we help you find a community and you move in, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
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Frequently Asked Questions about Assisted Living in Cary, NC

What's the difference between assisted living and memory care in North Carolina?

Assisted living in North Carolina supports residents with daily activities (bathing, dressing, medication management) while preserving independence. Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's or dementia, and adds 24/7 secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and structured routines designed to reduce confusion and wandering.

What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in North Carolina?

Assisted living in North Carolina is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.

Does North Carolina Medicaid cover assisted living?

North Carolina Medicaid does not directly pay room-and-board for assisted living, but most states (including North Carolina) offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can offset the cost of care services delivered inside a licensed community. Eligibility, waitlists, and covered services vary — check directly with the state Medicaid agency.

What is assisted living?

Assisted living combines private or semi-private apartments with help on activities of daily living (meals, bathing, dressing, medication management) and a social calendar — for residents who need some support but do not need 24/7 medical care.

How many assisted living facilities are listed on this page?

This page features 21 assisted living facilities in Cary, NC. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right assisted living facility in Cary, NC?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Cary, NC, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting assisted living facilities in Cary, NC?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.