Page 5 of Best Assisted Living in North Carolina

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 389 assisted living communities in 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
Aug 2026
We analyzed These are the facilities in North Carolina our team has analyzed — not a count of every assisted living provider in North Carolina.
389 homes
Other senior care options in North Carolina:
Avg Monthly Cost: $6,747The average monthly cost across facilities in North Carolina. Reflects published or estimated base rates and can vary with care level, room type, and amenities. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: $5,600
Avg Walk Score: 36/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in North Carolina. 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: 72The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in North Carolina. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Assisted Living around North Carolina

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. 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. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal 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.
TerraBella Newton
AL
MC
Newton
96
Facility 96
NC AVG 72
Rank #89 / 387
Yes
20
Facility 20
NC AVG 36
Rank #377 / 536
--
105.50/200
Facility 105.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #5 / 321
16
50%
Facility 50%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #21 / 333
-
Southern Magnolia Living
AL
RC
Holly Springs (Hensley)
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 72
Rank #335 / 387
Yes
15
Facility 15
NC AVG 36
Rank #414 / 536
100.0% -
105.50/200
Facility 105.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #5 / 321
4
25%
Facility 25%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #8 / 333
-
Avendelle on Maynard
AL
Cary (Oxford Square Apartments)
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 72
Rank #335 / 387
Yes
49
Facility 49
NC AVG 36
Rank #162 / 536
-A+
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
-
Cadence at Clemmons
AL
MC
Clemmons
96
Facility 96
NC AVG 72
Rank #89 / 387
No
31
Facility 31
NC AVG 36
Rank #295 / 536
--
102.50/200
Facility 102.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #73 / 321
25
72%
Facility 72%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #105 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed
Brookdale Asheville Overlook
AL
Asheville
79
Facility 79
NC AVG 72
Rank #157 / 387
Yes
48
Facility 48
NC AVG 36
Rank #168 / 536
57.0% -
103.50/200
Facility 103.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #31 / 321
17
76%
Facility 76%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #136 / 333
Private Room / Shared Room
Cadence at Wake Forest by Cogir
AL
MC
Wake Forest
96
Facility 96
NC AVG 72
Rank #89 / 387
Yes
43
Facility 43
NC AVG 36
Rank #207 / 536
27.1% -
103.50/200
Facility 103.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #31 / 321
22
77%
Facility 77%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #150 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed
Brookdale South Charlotte
AL
MC
Charlotte (Wessex Square)
82
Facility 82
NC AVG 72
Rank #142 / 387
Yes
16
Facility 16
NC AVG 36
Rank #407 / 536
74.4% A+
101.50/200
Facility 101.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #103 / 321
20
80%
Facility 80%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #177 / 333
Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms
Truewood by Merrill, New Bern
AL
IL
MC
New Bern
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 72
Rank #283 / 387
Yes
31
Facility 31
NC AVG 36
Rank #295 / 536
100.0% A+
99.50/200
Facility 99.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #145 / 321
20
85%
Facility 85%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #246 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Merrywood on Park
AL
IL
NH
Charlotte (Ashbrook - Clawson Village)
20
Facility 20
NC AVG 72
Rank #331 / 387
Yes
57
Facility 57
NC AVG 36
Rank #101 / 536
80.0% A+
97.00/200
Facility 97.00/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #189 / 321
24
79%
Facility 79%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #164 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Calyx Living of Wakefield
AL
MC
RC
Raleigh (North Raleigh)
88
Facility 88
NC AVG 72
Rank #123 / 387
No
27
Facility 27
NC AVG 36
Rank #336 / 536
--
104.50/200
Facility 104.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #20 / 321
1
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every NC community we track that reports that metric, not just the 389 on this page.

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TerraBella Newton

1088 Radio Station Rd, Newton, NC 28658
Overview of TerraBella Newton

Nestled in the quaint city of Newton, North Carolina, TerraBella Newton is a premier senior living community offering assisted living and memory care. With a variety of suites and one-bedroom apartments, the community offers residents plenty of options to choose their preferred floor plan based on their needs. Residents living with Alzheimer’s and dementia are given help to navigate life with memory loss through TerraBella’s SHINE Memory Care Program, offering scientifically backed approaches to memory care.

TerraBella Newton provides all the care, comfort, and ease residents could dream of. The community offers round-the-clock care, a full calendar of engaging activities, and a host of amenities designed to provide residents with comfort and leisure. At TerraBella Newton, residents enjoy full access to three meals daily plus snacks, senior-specific wellness classes, professional beauty salons & barber shops, local outings & excursions, and in-house religious services to guarantee holistic wellness. Other amenities include a jacuzzi spa, arts & crafts studio, activities room, library, live entertainment, and scenic walking paths.

Contact TerraBella Newton

Southern Magnolia Living

328 Moore Hill Wy, Holly Springs, NC 27540
Overview of Southern Magnolia Living

Southern Magnolia Living offers a warm and familiar atmosphere for seniors seeking a comfortable and supportive assisted living environment. Imagine a home with just six residents, all treated like family. Residents enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, daily activities, and special events like BBQs and holiday gatherings. Families are always welcome for meals and visits, fostering a strong sense of community.

Southern Magnolia Living prioritizes resident well-being with a holistic approach. Their focus is on maximizing independence and providing personalized care. A dedicated staff assists with daily activities like bathing and medication management, while a visiting doctor ensures residents receive proper medical attention. Additional services like massage therapy and pet therapy contribute to emotional well-being, and spiritual care is available upon request. Residents can stay active and engaged with a variety of activities and events. The community calendar offers daily options, while individual preferences are also taken into account. Arts and crafts, music, exercise classes, and community outings are just a few examples. Southern Magnolia Living strives to create a fulfilling and enriching experience for each resident.

Contact Southern Magnolia Living

Overview of Avendelle on Maynard

Avendelle on Maynard, located in Cary, NC, is a senior living community by Avendelle, offering assisted living services to its residents. This assisted living community provides personalized care plans where residents receive varying levels of care and assistance as their needs change. This includes assistance with daily living activities, medication management, and 24/7 staff availability for supervision.

Additionally, residents are also provided freshly cooked meals throughout the day, as well as regular health and wellness assessments to ensure that they are receiving proper care according to their current needs. Grooming assistance and salon services are also offered regularly, and residents are also encouraged to participate in physical and social activities the staff prepared, to make sure that they maintain their mobility and keep their overall health and well being at its best.

Contact Avendelle on Maynard

Overview of Cadence at Clemmons

As a senior community with a holistic approach to Assisted Living and Memory Care, Cadence at Clemmons prioritizes the well-being of their residents on all fronts: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual. Within this enriching environment, senior residents can pursue their passions and foster meaningful connections while enjoying a sense of home.

Cadence at Clemmons provides wellness programs, dining experiences, and activities encouraging senior residents to connect with new people and explore new horizons. Their Assisted Living and Memory Care services are designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. This intimate setting, featuring 62 rooms, is carefully designed to promote overall wellness. Cadence at Clemmons aims to create a senior living community that embraces every aspect of well-being.

Contact Cadence at Clemmons

Overview of Brookdale Asheville Overlook

Located in Asheville, NC, Brookdale Asheville Overlook offers a vibrant senior living community offering assisted living. Residents here can enjoy spacious, pet-friendly apartments filled with natural light and a sense of tranquility, away from the city’s hustle. Surrounded by North Carolina’s famous forests and the Great Smoky Mountains, residents enjoy a scenic and relaxing mountain view that provides a healing and peaceful environment, along with 24-hour emergency support from a dedicated team.

At Brookdale Trillium Crossing, seniors can start their day with a coffee on the porch and choose from a variety of activities designed to enhance their well-being. Whether it’s joining a fitness class, or participating in relaxing outdoor recreations like biking, hiking, and fishing, there’s something for everyone. The community’s dining program offers nutritious, chef-prepared meals in a restaurant-style setting, tailored to residents’ preferences and dietary needs. Recognized as Best Assisted Living by U.S. News and World Report, the community guarantees a welcoming environment supported by high-quality care.

Contact Brookdale Asheville Overlook

Overview of Cadence at Wake Forest by Cogir

Breathe in the fresh air of Heritage Trade Drive, Wake Forest, NC, with the trusted senior living community of Cadence at Wake Forest that provides assisted living and memory care. Enjoy your golden years within the beautiful and spacious residences of Cadence at Wake Forest in variations of one-bedroom apartments, and private and shared studios. An experienced and highly skilled team lends necessary care and support for residents to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle.

The community doubles its efforts to ensure residents experience unparalleled comfort and convenience, providing them with the utmost attention for their every need. Leisure and wellness is not a problem with a combination of enjoyable and nurturing activities conducted for seniors to maintain a happy and active lifestyle. Good dining completes the finest experience with healthy restaurant-style meals catering to seniors’ dietary needs and preferences. Cadence at Wake Forest is ideal for seniors seeking a haven to spend a peaceful yet well-engaged retirement with its bright and airy campus.

Contact Cadence at Wake Forest by Cogir

Overview of Brookdale South Charlotte

Located in the vibrant city of Charlotte, North Carolina, Brookdale South Charlotte offers a senior living community designed to enhance your independence. Catering to both assisted living and memory care, this community provides a variety of care options to suit your needs. Residents can enjoy a wide range of activities, from bingo and music programs to fitness classes and wine and cheese socials. With pet-friendly apartments that boast plenty of natural light, seniors can experience a comfortable and engaging lifestyle.

Brookdale South Charlotte features an impressive array of amenities that make it a top choice for seniors. The community offers a full calendar of events, ensuring residents always have something to look forward to. Dining is a pleasure with restaurant-style meals served in an elegant dining room, fostering social interaction and enjoyment. With 24/7 availability for emergencies, seniors can have peace of mind while focusing on the things they love. Brookdale South Charlotte is the perfect place to embrace a fulfilling and worry-free lifestyle.

Contact Brookdale South Charlotte

Overview of Truewood by Merrill, New Bern

Truewood by Merrill, New Bern offers a variety of living options and many comforts of home, quality care, and engaging activities, providing residents with numerous opportunities to connect with others. The community offers a range of floor plans, with scheduled transportation, 24-hour staffing, and weekly housekeeping services.

Truewood by Merrill, New Bern’s Truewood Dining Program keeps up with residents’ schedules, providing fresh and healthy meals prepared by the culinary team. The community strives to help residents live a full and happy life built around their delights and hobbies, with a multitude of activity options, including fitness classes, learning opportunities, and numerous outings. The community also features a full-length outdoor shuffleboard court, a qualifying horseshoe court, and a putting green, allowing residents to stay active and engaged. Truewood by Merrill, New Bern goes beyond senior housing, providing a distinctive lifestyle filled with friendships, endless activities, and exceptional attention to detail, including restaurant-style dining, a clubhouse with various amenities, and a wealth of thoughtfully designed services and amenities.

Contact Truewood by Merrill, New Bern

Overview of Merrywood on Park

Merrywood on Park is one of the most distinguished independent living facilities. Here, seniors embrace a warm and stylish lifestyle. This remarkable community, which follows the highest assisted living guidelines, offers a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, and respite care. It is nestled in a tranquil location that radiates serenity.

The apartments and living spaces exude modern elegance, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. Residents can stay connected to their loved ones through the latest technology, ensuring they remain engaged and connected to the outside world. With various programs and activities, Merrywood on Park ensures that residents can always engage in engaging experiences. And let’s not forget, it’s a pet-friendly environment, welcoming beloved furry companions into the fold. The bistro-style setting is a delightful place to savor these culinary delights. The community goes above and beyond, providing housekeeping services, a convenient on-site pharmacy, personalized nutrition planning, private therapy sessions, and more.

Contact Merrywood on Park

Overview of Calyx Living of Wakefield

Calyx Living of Wakefield is a thriving community in Raleigh, NC, offering comprehensive assisted living and memory care services. Here, residents enjoy the comfort and convenience of having 24/7 access to a dedicated care team and their services, including daily living assistance, personal care support, and more. Their campus guarantees safety and peace of mind with 24-hour security and a personal pendant alert system available to everyone for faster response during emergencies.

Vibrant life enrichment activities and amenities like game rooms, wellness studios, and relaxing outdoor spaces are available to make residents’ living experience as vibrant and enjoyable as possible. The dining experience here is always delectable with chef-prepared meals cooked using fresh local ingredients. Here, you can receive compassionate care while staying close to everything you love.

Contact Calyx Living of Wakefield

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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Assisted Living in North Carolina

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 389 assisted living facilities in North Carolina. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right assisted living facility in North Carolina?

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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?

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.