Best Assisted Living in San Mateo, CA

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 9 assisted living communities in San Mateo, CA using CA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank assisted living in CA
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in San Mateo, CA our team has analyzed — not a count of every assisted living provider in San Mateo, CA.
9 homes
Other senior care options in San Mateo:

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Avg Walk Score: 88/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in San Mateo, CA. 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: 94The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in San Mateo, CA. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Assisted Living around San Mateo

Info below is compiled from the CA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS), 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. 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. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment. PC (Palliative Care): Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
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.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
Visits or investigations linked to complaints, as counted in the state record (may differ from routine annual surveys).
Count of California state "Type A" citations — the state's most serious citation category (immediate or serious harm to residents), from California state inspection data.
Number of years the company has been in operation.
Reported or derived occupancy for the facility—typically how fully licensed capacity is utilized. Compare across peers in the same market.
Name of the licensed owner, operator, or managing entity as filed with the state. Useful for grouping facilities under the same organization.
Housing or bed configuration options (e.g. studio, shared), often from facility-reported amenities and licensing details.
Sterling Court
AL
IL
San Mateo (North Central)
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 103
Rank #1,272 / 1,645
Yes
89
Facility 89
CA AVG 58
Rank #195 / 2,057
5
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 13
Rank #325 / 1,387
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 3
Rank #898 / 1,433
36
Facility 36
CA AVG 13
Rank #62 / 1,507
87.5%
Facility 87.5%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #411 / 1,452
Webcor Builders, Inc. & Fifty Peninsula Partners1 Bed / 2 Bed
Pacific Care Home
AL
RESC
San Mateo (South San Mateo)
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 103
Rank #1,318 / 1,645
No
86
Facility 86
CA AVG 58
Rank #267 / 2,057
3
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 13
Rank #1 / 1,387
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #478 / 1,433
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 13
Rank #292 / 1,507
100.0%
Facility 100.0%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #1 / 1,452
J & I LLCPrivate Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms
The Peninsula Regent
AL
IL
San Mateo
435
Facility 435
CA AVG 103
Rank #25 / 1,645
Yes
95
Facility 95
CA AVG 58
Rank #66 / 2,057
6
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 13
Rank #325 / 1,387
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 3
Rank #724 / 1,433
37
Facility 37
CA AVG 13
Rank #52 / 1,507
50.1%
Facility 50.1%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #1,305 / 1,452
Bass Inc And Pacific Retirement Services Inc1 Bed / 2 Bed
B&B Residential Facilities, Inc.
AL
HOS
MC
PC
RESC
RC
San Mateo (South San Mateo)
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 103
Rank #1,317 / 1,645
Yes
86
Facility 86
CA AVG 58
Rank #267 / 2,057
3
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 13
Rank #210 / 1,387
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 1,433
35
Facility 35
CA AVG 13
Rank #67 / 1,507
100.0%
Facility 100.0%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #1 / 1,452
B & B Residential Facilities, Inc-
Sunrise of San Mateo
AL
MC
San Mateo (Central San Mateo)
85
Facility 85
CA AVG 103
Rank #879 / 1,645
Yes
88
Facility 88
CA AVG 58
Rank #218 / 2,057
9
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 13
Rank #442 / 1,387
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 3
Rank #898 / 1,433
25
Facility 25
CA AVG 13
Rank #268 / 1,507
78.8%
Facility 78.8%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #702 / 1,452
Szr San Mateo LLC And Sunrise Senior Living MgtStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
The Stratford
AL
IL
San Mateo
96
Facility 96
CA AVG 103
Rank #799 / 1,645
Yes
98
Facility 98
CA AVG 58
Rank #13 / 2,057
19
11
Facility 11
CA AVG 13
Rank #885 / 1,387
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #478 / 1,433
20
Facility 20
CA AVG 13
Rank #390 / 1,507
89.6%
Facility 89.6%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #355 / 1,452
Sunrise Stratford Gp & LP And Sunrise Senior Lvg Mgt-
Heritage Residential Care
AL
HOS
RESC
San Mateo (Beresford Park)
12
Facility 12
CA AVG 103
Rank #1,299 / 1,645
No
95
Facility 95
CA AVG 58
Rank #66 / 2,057
1
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 13
Rank #1 / 1,387
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 1,433
-
83.3%
Facility 83.3%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #504 / 1,452
Almacare IncPrivate / Shared Rooms
Atria Park of San Mateo
AL
IL
MC
San Mateo (East San Mateo)
175
Facility 175
CA AVG 103
Rank #233 / 1,645
Yes
70
Facility 70
CA AVG 58
Rank #739 / 2,057
53
27
Facility 27
CA AVG 13
Rank #1,224 / 1,387
11
Facility 11
CA AVG 3
Rank #1,309 / 1,433
25
Facility 25
CA AVG 13
Rank #268 / 1,507
42.3%
Facility 42.3%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #1,398 / 1,452
Wg Hillsdale Sh LP And Atria Management Co LLCStudio / 1 Bed
George Anne Home
AL
San Mateo (Lyon Hoag)
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 103
Rank #1,318 / 1,645
Yes
86
Facility 86
CA AVG 58
Rank #267 / 2,057
17
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 13
Rank #442 / 1,387
12
Facility 12
CA AVG 3
Rank #1,327 / 1,433
9
Facility 9
CA AVG 13
Rank #741 / 1,507
83.3%
Facility 83.3%
CA AVG 75.9%
Rank #504 / 1,452
Peter Gong-

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every CA community we track that reports that metric, not just the 9 analyzed for San Mateo.

Sterling Court

850 N El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94401
Overview of Sterling Court

Located in San Mateo, California, Sterling Court is an independent and assisted living community that offers rental residences for older adults seeking support while maintaining an active lifestyle. The community has served residents for 35 years and is operated by Webcor Builders, Inc. and Fifty Peninsula Partners under the leadership of Executive Director Sarah St. Charles.

A key feature of the community is its all-inclusive pricing model, with a single monthly fee that covers dining, housekeeping, maintenance, and transportation. This makes expenses more predictable and eliminates additional service charges. Residents also have access to over 150 activities, exercise classes, and scheduled shuttle outings, providing a variety of opportunities for recreation and social engagement.

Dining services include chef-prepared meals, offering variety and convenience without the need for separate meal planning. The community is also pet-friendly, allowing residents to bring their companion animals with them.

With 24 residences in a mid-rise building, the community offers a smaller-scale setting that may encourage closer connections among residents and staff. One- and two-bedroom floor plans are available to accommodate individuals and couples. An occupancy rate of 88% also reflects consistent interest in the community.

The location is highly walkable, with many shops and services accessible on foot, while San Mateo Medical Center is a short drive away. State inspections have generally identified building maintenance and administrative documentation issues rather than concerns related to resident care, and a separate unsubstantiated complaint investigation.

Contact Sterling Court

Overview of Pacific Care Home

Operated by J & I LLC, Pacific Care Home is a residential care community in the South San Mateo neighborhood of San Mateo, California. It offers assisted living and residential care in a single-story home. Rich Fatooh is the owner, and Rafael A. Jison serves as the administrator. The community is about 0.4 miles from San Mateo Medical Center, giving residents and visiting family convenient access to nearby hospital care. Pacific Care Home has been serving the local community for 24 years.

The home has 6 beds with both private and semi-private accommodations. It’s a small residential setting instead of a large senior living campus. All beds are currently occupied, reflecting full occupancy and steady local demand. Its smaller size may appeal to families looking for a quieter environment where residents and staff can build closer relationships.

Residents receive assistance with medication management, mobility and transfer support, bathing, dressing, housekeeping, and laundry services. Care and supervision are available around the clock. Transportation services, fitness opportunities, and social and recreational activities are also part of daily life, so residents can stay active and engaged.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 86, which is very walkable. Many daily essentials and errands can be reached on foot. The short distance to San Mateo Medical Center makes it convenient for residents and visiting family members.

State inspections have reviewed emergency preparedness planning, staff training related to resident positioning and support, and documentation of medical assessments. More recent inspections found that safety equipment, medications, and resident accommodations are in proper order. Families touring Pacific Care Home should ask how staff training and resident documentation are maintained over time.

Contact Pacific Care Home

Overview of The Peninsula Regent

As San Mateo’s foremost not-for-profit condominium community, The Peninsula Regent is designed for independent seniors aged 60 and beyond. What sets them apart is its unique approach; rather than the customary entrance fee that is often non-refundable, senior residents have the opportunity to invest in their very own homes.

The Peninsula not only secures a valuable asset for seniors and their heirs but also imparts a sense of comfort and peace of mind that comes with being part of this exceptional senior community. Here, an array of concierge services, excellent amenities, delectable dining selections, and daily social engagement await seniors, offering a carefree lifestyle that empowers them to pursue their passions and embrace life to the fullest wholeheartedly.

Contact The Peninsula Regent

Overview of B&b Residential Facilities

B&B Residential Facilities, Inc. offers a nurturing haven that seamlessly blends the comfort of home with round-the-clock care and supervision in  in San Mateo, California. Within this inviting atmosphere, a heightened standard of living awaits, enriched by the proximity to a range of local conveniences including shopping centers, places of worship, local transportation, and healthcare services. Their dedicated team of caregivers, well-versed and extensively trained, also ensures that residents experience an elevated lifestyle.

Their fully furnished rooms include private bathrooms. B&B Residential Facilities takes utmost care to accommodate special dietary needs as directed by physicians, and they extend their thoughtfulness to arranging transportation for local events as well. Their commitment reaches beyond the ordinary, encompassing respite care, palliative care, and hospice care, ensuring that every facet of daily living is thoughtfully addressed. Amid this welcoming and serene environment, residents can relish a quality of life that goes beyond expectations.

Contact B&B Residential Facilities, Inc.

Overview of Sunrise of San Mateo

Operated by SZR San Mateo LLC and Sunrise Senior Living Mgt, Sunrise of San Mateo is a senior living community in the Central San Mateo neighborhood of San Mateo, California. Liza Hix serves as the administrator. The community is about half a mile from downtown San Mateo and close to San Mateo Medical Center.

It has been serving residents for 25 years and is housed in a mid-rise building with 85 beds. Residents can choose from studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom residences, and the community currently operates at 79% occupancy.

The community offers assisted living, memory care, and short-term stays, giving families flexibility when choosing the level and length of care that best fits a loved one’s needs. Residents also have access to transportation services and fitness and recreation programs. Pets are welcome in the community.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 88, and it’s very walkable. Residents and visiting family can complete many errands without relying on a car.

State inspections have addressed a variety of topics over time, including medication storage, staff background clearance procedures, emergency supply preparedness, and standards related to personal care and hygiene. Some findings were substantiated while others were not. The community has addressed the issues identified during the review process.

Contact Sunrise of San Mateo

Overview of The Stratford

Operated by Sunrise Stratford GP & LP and Sunrise Senior Living Management, The Stratford is a senior living community in the Downtown neighborhood of San Mateo, California. It offers assisted living and independent living. Janie Woo serves as the administrator and director.

The community has been serving older adults for 19 years. One feature that distinguishes it from many other senior living communities in the area is its independent living ownership model. Here, residents can purchase their residence instead of renting it. It’s an option families may want to consider when comparing housing choices.

The Stratford has 96 units in a high-rise building. It currently operates at about 90% occupancy, making it one of the larger senior living communities in San Mateo. Residents who enjoy an urban setting may appreciate the community’s location and lifestyle. Daily life includes transportation services and fitness and recreation programs. It’s a pet-friendly environment, so residents can keep a companion animal.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 98, earning it the designation of a “walker’s paradise.” Most shopping, dining, and everyday errands can be completed on foot. San Mateo Medical Center is nearby, providing convenient access to healthcare services for residents and visiting family.

State inspections have addressed areas including medication oversight, staff supervision procedures, and room maintenance. In the cases reviewed, the community responded with corrective actions such as additional staff training. Inspection records do not show a recurring pattern with the same issues.

The Stratford’s highly walkable downtown location and its purchase-based independent living model are two of its most distinctive features.

Contact The Stratford

Overview of Heritage Residential Care

Heritage Residential Care is a devoted, family-owned network of care homes driven by the mission of providing exceptional care to the seniors within our community. Founded initially in 1988 by two distinguished physicians, the core purpose of Heritage Residential Care has remained unwavering: to realize their vision of delivering high-quality senior care within a homely environment. With the option of choosing from four well-situated facilities in the serene neighborhoods of San Mateo and Millbrae, California, seniors can confidently explore and select the perfect residence that offers a genuine sense of belonging and comfort. Peace of mind for the seniors and their families remains the foremost priority here.

Heritage Residential Care takes immense pride in assuring seniors and their families that their loved ones are in the best of hands. Under their care and guidance, independence in daily activities is actively encouraged. When seniors face this crucial crossroads in decision-making, Heritage Residential Care stands as a beacon of ease and reassurance, offering a secure and cost-effective alternative to other, more expensive care options. At Heritage Residential Care, their highly knowledgeable staff and caregivers have extended exceptional senior care to numerous individuals in the welcoming communities of Millbrae and San Mateo, California. Their facilities, accommodating 6-bed and 12-bed homes, are thoughtfully placed in tranquil and peaceful neighborhoods, ensuring a serene environment for the residents.

Contact Heritage Residential Care

Overview of Atria Park of San Mateo

Situated just 20 miles south of San Francisco, Atria Park of San Mateo extends a warm welcome to San Mateo, California seniors, offering a blend of assisted living and memory care services. With a dedicated staff taking care of the driving, housekeeping, laundry, and home maintenance, residents can dedicate their time to what truly ignites their passions.

Atria Park of San Mateo stands out with its Engage Life® program, presenting many opportunities for residents to explore, create, and engage. This San Mateo, California community is tailored for active seniors seeking a dynamic lifestyle complemented by premium amenities. Nestled within the Hillsdale neighborhood along the waterfront, this community thrives on fostering connections and bringing people together, enriching the lives of its residents.

Contact Atria Park of San Mateo

Overview of George Anne Home

Tucked within the tranquil surroundings of San Mateo in California, George Anne Home stands as a testament to unwavering commitment to compassionate senior care. Rooted in core values, this community endeavors to create an environment where residents experience not just care, but a life rich in fulfillment. The dedication to delivering top-tier long-term care is evident through a team of trained professionals who curate a worry-free atmosphere, ensuring the well-being of every resident.

At George Anne Home, the pursuit of excellence extends to specialized care, encompassing dementia and Alzheimer’s care, as well as hospice services. The community is driven by a holistic approach that addresses health management needs, including medication assistance and medical appointment coordination. Moreover, residents benefit from an array of enriching programs, from fitness regimens to wellness initiatives, tailored to nurture both body and spirit. Safety and support are foundational principles that underpin George Anne Home’s mission, offering a haven where residents can embrace a purposeful lifestyle.

Contact George Anne Home

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 San Mateo, CA

What is the average cost of assisted living in San Mateo, CA?

The average monthly cost of assisted living in San Mateo, CA is approximately $7,000. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.

What is the price range for assisted living in San Mateo, CA?

Assisted living in San Mateo, CA typically ranges from $6,000–$9,000 per month, depending on the community, room type, and care needs.

What is the typical staff-to-resident ratio at assisted living facilities in San Mateo, CA?

Assisted living facilities in San Mateo, CA typically operate with a staff-to-resident ratio in the range of 1:6 to 1:12.

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

Assisted living in California 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 California?

Assisted living in California 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 California Medicaid cover assisted living?

California Medicaid does not directly pay room-and-board for assisted living, but most states (including California) 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.