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Best Independent Living in San Jose, CA

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 12 independent living communities in San Jose, CA using CA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in CA
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jun 2026
We analyzed
12 homes
Other senior care options in San Jose:

Video Tour: Top-rated Independent Living facilities in San Jose, California.

Watch this Video to see San Jose's Top-rated Senior Communities
Avg Walk Score: 61/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in San Jose, 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: 141The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in San Jose, CA. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around San Jose (Metro Area)

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.

Bridgepoint at Los Altos
IL
AL
Los Altos (North Los Altos)
150
Facility 150
CA AVG 104
Rank #342 / 1646
Yes
79
Facility 79
CA AVG 59
Rank #450 / 2058
88
Facility 88
CA AVG 81
Rank #563 / 1475
15
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 13
Rank #443 / 1388
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 3
Rank #724 / 1434
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 13
Rank #292 / 1504
89.3% Krc Los Altos LP & Kisco Senior Living, LLCStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Carlton Senior Living San Jose
IL
AL
MC
San Jose (Gunderson And Vista Park)
183
Facility 183
CA AVG 104
Rank #205 / 1646
Yes
35
Facility 35
CA AVG 59
Rank #1645 / 2058
86
Facility 86
CA AVG 81
Rank #649 / 1475
21
10
Facility 10
CA AVG 13
Rank #846 / 1388
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #478 / 1434
26
Facility 26
CA AVG 13
Rank #246 / 1504
74.9% Carlton Senior Living, LLCAlcove / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
The Watermark at San Jose
IL
AL
MC
San Jose (Willow Glen)
205
Facility 205
CA AVG 104
Rank #148 / 1646
Yes
72
Facility 72
CA AVG 59
Rank #673 / 2058
92
Facility 92
CA AVG 81
Rank #349 / 1475
15
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 13
Rank #652 / 1388
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 1434
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 13
Rank #1415 / 1504
53.7% Us Alliance Holden Of San Jose II Tenant And WatermarkStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at West San Jose
IL
AL
MC
San Jose (West Valley)
149
Facility 149
CA AVG 104
Rank #380 / 1646
Yes
75
Facility 75
CA AVG 59
Rank #562 / 2058
84
Facility 84
CA AVG 81
Rank #732 / 1475
26
12
Facility 12
CA AVG 13
Rank #920 / 1388
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 3
Rank #724 / 1434
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 13
Rank #1323 / 1504
47.7% Shp Vi Ms San Jose LLC And Morningstar Senior Mgmt LLCStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Atria Willow Glen
IL
AL
MC
RC
San Jose (Dry Creek)
63
Facility 63
CA AVG 104
Rank #1057 / 1646
Yes
34
Facility 34
CA AVG 59
Rank #1660 / 2058
87
Facility 87
CA AVG 81
Rank #611 / 1475
20
9
Facility 9
CA AVG 13
Rank #810 / 1388
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 3
Rank #724 / 1434
27
Facility 27
CA AVG 13
Rank #214 / 1504
69.8% Wg Willow Glen Sh LP And Atria Management Co LLCStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Brookdale San Jose
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
San Jose (South San Jose)
153
Facility 153
CA AVG 104
Rank #329 / 1646
Yes
71
Facility 71
CA AVG 59
Rank #701 / 2058
60
Facility 60
CA AVG 81
Rank #1332 / 1475
46
28
Facility 28
CA AVG 13
Rank #1237 / 1388
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 3
Rank #1245 / 1434
11
Facility 11
CA AVG 13
Rank #652 / 1504
62.1% Blc-Atrium At San Jose LP1 Bed / 2 Bed
Atria Evergreen Valley
IL
AL
MC
RC
San Jose (Evergreen)
134
Facility 134
CA AVG 104
Rank #470 / 1646
Yes
29
Facility 29
CA AVG 59
Rank #1732 / 2058
73
Facility 73
CA AVG 81
Rank #1039 / 1475
32
22
Facility 22
CA AVG 13
Rank #1158 / 1388
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 3
Rank #899 / 1434
28
Facility 28
CA AVG 13
Rank #155 / 1504
59.7% Gp Of Aoc San Felipe Opco And Atria Aoc Ca Opco Gp PtrStudio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen
IL
AL
MC
San Jose (Stokes)
150
Facility 150
CA AVG 104
Rank #342 / 1646
Yes
73
Facility 73
CA AVG 59
Rank #641 / 2058
67
Facility 67
CA AVG 81
Rank #1200 / 1475
51
35
Facility 35
CA AVG 13
Rank #1287 / 1388
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 3
Rank #899 / 1434
4
Facility 4
CA AVG 13
Rank #1128 / 1504
62.7% Mg At Willow Glen, LP And Shi-IV Merrill Gp, LLCStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas
IL
AL
MC
San Jose (West Valley)
82
Facility 82
CA AVG 104
Rank #898 / 1646
Yes 59
71
Facility 71
CA AVG 81
Rank #1100 / 1475
30
17
Facility 17
CA AVG 13
Rank #1057 / 1388
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 3
Rank #1204 / 1434
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 13
Rank #1234 / 1504
47.6% West Valley Mc, LLC And Oakmont Management Group LLCStudio / Shared Studio
Westmont of San Jose
IL
AL
MC
Milpitas (Berryessa)
-Yes 70 -------Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / Suite
Miranda Villa
IL
San Jose (Bascom - Forest)
-No
77
Facility 77
CA AVG 59
Rank #509 / 2058
-------Studio / 1 Bed
Novelle
IL
AL
MC
San Jose
-Yes----
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 1434
---Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Overview of Bridgepoint at Los Altos

Embark on an extraordinary journey at Bridgepoint at Los Altos, an unparalleled destination offering a harmonious blend of independent living, assisted senior living, and the epitome of luxury in assisted living homes. Just minutes away from downtown Los Altos and the prestigious Stanford University, the location couldn’t be more perfect.

Discover an array of meticulously designed floorplans where every detail has been thoughtfully considered to provide the utmost comfort and convenience. Choose from a variety of options, each offering private patios or balconies that invite you to bask in the beauty of the surroundings. The kitchens are a culinary dream, and the spacious walk-in closets ensure that every cherished belonging finds its place. Step into a world of serenity as you wander through the future beautiful courtyards, meandering gardens, and hear the tranquil sounds of a flowing fountain. Unwind in the cozy fireside lounge, nourish your mind in the wellness center, and indulge in literary adventures in the library’s tech area.

Contact Bridgepoint at Los Altos

Overview of Carlton Senior Living San Jose

Carlton Senior Living San Jose is an extraordinary community nestled next to the serene Martial Cottle Park, offering a harmonious blend of memory care and residential assisted living. Enjoy the convenience of transportation services, housekeeping assistance, and apartment maintenance, while utilities are taken care of, allowing you to fully embrace the joys of retirement.
Discover thoughtfully designed floor plans, from cozy studios to spacious one-bedroom and two-bedroom senior living bedrooms.

With an emphasis on family values, this community ensures unparalleled safety and security while fostering a vibrant and engaging social life. Step into its enchanting courtyard, a serene oasis where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Indulge in delicious meals, lovingly prepared to nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Every aspect of life at Carlton Senior Living San Jose has been meticulously crafted to provide an exceptional experience that exceeds expectations.

Contact Carlton Senior Living San Jose

Overview of The Watermark at San Jose

Located in the scenic Almaden Expressway, San Jose, CA, the Watermark at Almaden is an idyllic senior living community offering a wide array of living options. These include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term stays. Featuring spacious and elegant floor plans including private and shared studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, the community provides a cozy residence for seniors. A comfortable and safe residence for seniors to experience an accepting and worry-free environment.

The Watermark at Almaden prepares three carefully chef-curated meals every day to satisfy its’ residents’ dietary needs and preferences. Moreover, the community ensures the residents enjoy an active lifestyle and learning through their acclaimed Watermark University. Amenities include an outdoor pool and hot tub, a movie theater, a fitness center, a spacious art studio, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Valuing the importance of pets, the community provides a pet-friendly environment.

Contact The Watermark at San Jose

Overview of MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at West San Jose

A proud MorningStar Senior Living Group member, MorningStar at West San Jose provides exceptional assisted living and memory care services tailored to each individual’s needs. The community prides itself on providing the best services; striving to be the top-ranked assisted living community near Cupertino. An elegant community that is built on its contemporary design and styling, allowing for a more luxurious environment while providing resort-like service. Residents of MorningStar of San Jose can rest assured that they can feel like they’re a home away from home.

The community boasts elegant designs and upscale amenities such as its dining room, brightly-lit lounge areas, spacious apartments, courtyard, and arts and crafts studio. MorningStar promotes a stress-free lifestyle for their residents, providing essential services– housekeeping, social and recreational events, and transportation events. Management encourages residents to participate in activities and maximize the amenities to socialize and promote a warm and welcoming environment.

Contact MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at West San Jose

Overview of Atria Willow Glen

Nestled in the heart of San Jose, California, Atria Willow Glen stands as the pinnacle of excellence. Offering a wide range of living options, including memory care apartments, assisted living apartments, and independent living floor plans, Atria Willow Glen caters to the unique needs and preferences of each resident.
Take a dip in the heated pools, enjoy a trip to the on-site barbershop, or unwind in the center media room.

Life at Atria Willow Glen is nothing short of amazing. With a calendar full of engaging activities, residents have endless opportunities to socialize, learn, and explore their passions. Delight in the culinary experience, as fresh seasonal ingredients are thoughtfully prepared to create delightful meals each day. The comprehensive emergency response plans ensure that the facility is meticulously maintained and provides a safe environment for all residents.

Contact Atria Willow Glen

Overview of Brookdale San Jose

Located on Blossom River Way in the vibrant city of San Jose, CA, Brookdale San Jose offers an exceptional senior living experience with a blend of independence, support, and specialized care. This community is conveniently positioned across the street from Westfield Oakridge Mall, providing easy access to shopping and dining. Brookdale San Jose is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents by offering three levels of care: independent living assisted living, and memory care.

Residents enjoy an array of amenities, including a well-equipped fitness center, a serene library, and a vibrant art studio. The community also offers concierge services and surface parking for convenience. Most utilities and maintenance are included, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their daily activities and social events. For those in need of additional support, Brookdale San Jose provides compassionate assistance with daily living activities such as medication management and personal grooming. The community’s dedication to quality care and enriching experiences makes it the top choice for senior living in San Jose.

Contact Brookdale San Jose

Overview of Atria Evergreen Valley

Offering a tranquil space for senior living, Atria Evergreen Valley is a one-of-a-kind community located about a 12-minute drive from downtown San Jose, CA. The community offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care options in a serene environment with stunning nature views. Atria Evergreen Valley features thoughtfully designed spaces ranging from studio, one- and two-bedroom options for independent and assisted living or studio and shared suite options for memory care − all equipped with emergency alert systems and housekeeping service.

Atria Evergreen Valley aims to create an engaging, active lifestyle for its residents through all-inclusive senior living amenities. Residents can enjoy nutritious chef-prepared meals, socialize on the patio or courtyard, and find new favorites in the library. Amenities include a private dining room, off-site pool privileges, a salon, a game room, and a pet-friendly environment, all supported by 24-hour staff, concierge services, and daily educational, social, cultural, and fitness opportunities.

Contact Atria Evergreen Valley

Overview of Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen

Located at 1420 Curci Drive in San Jose, California, Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen operates a 150-bed assisted living, independent living, and memory care community in a mid-rise building 3.6 miles from San Jose city center and 1.95 miles from O’Connor Hospital. Licensed since November 3, 2021, the facility is managed by Ida Gemignani under Mg At Willow Glen, LP; Shi-IV Merrill GP, LLC. Current census is 94 residents (63% occupancy, below California’s 72.8% average). Housing includes studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments (433–957 sq. ft).

Services and Amenities include resident call systems, anytime dining, weekly housekeeping, on-site maintenance, fitness center, wellness programs, transportation, and pets permitted. Licensed nurses and CNAs provide 24-hour staffing. Private-pay only; starting rate $4,900/month. Walk Score: 73 (very walkable).

Inspection Score 62/100 (D-), below California benchmark 76/100 (C). Since 2021: 51 total visits (219% above state average); 35 complaint visits (169% above average); 21 complaint investigations (110% above average). Total 12 citations: 3 Type A (at average), 9 Type B (125% above average).

There was a cockroach infestation in resident bedrooms documented from December 2023–August 2025 despite pest control contract, creating immediate health/safety risk.

Medication errors have been substantiated; an insulin pen was improperly stored in staff member’s pocket, found in another resident’s room (Type A deficiency for immediate risk). Medication documentation deficiencies detailed how 5 of 8 residents’ centrally stored medication logs had incorrect prescription numbers (potential health risk).

Insufficient staffing resulted in call button response delays: there were 71 documented instances in 2023 with maximum wait of 2 hours 41 minutes; deficiency reoccurred March 2026 citing slow call button response. The facility failed to provide 90 days’ notice of fee increases (Type B, May 2025). Hospice notification failure: facility did not notify Department within 5 days of resident admission to hospice care (December 2025).

Recent inspections (October–December 2025) found zero deficiencies, indicating remediation progress. However, many other allegations investigated were unsubstantiated, and complaint-driven visit frequency remains exceptional.

Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen serves private-pay residents across care continuum in a facility with documented substantiated violations in pest control, medication safety/documentation, staffing adequacy, and regulatory notification, accompanied by extensive complaint-driven oversight and demonstrated recent compliance improvement.

Contact Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen

Overview of MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas

A distinguished senior living community situated on Williams Road, San Jose, CA, MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas specializes in memory care. With a peaceful environment, the community offers spacious and well-designed private and companion suites to optimize comfort and safety. With its exclusive memory care approach, Lavender Sky, the community ensures the highest quality of care and support for their unique needs. Cherish every moment and thrive with dignity supported by a kind and dedicated team.

The community aims to provide seniors with carefully curated activities for seniors’ cognition and enjoyment. Ease your worries and live a wonderful retirement surrounded by welcoming people. Satisfying seniors’ dietary needs and tastes, the community serves healthy and delicious meals. MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas is a safe place for seniors living with dementia to maximize their independence and live a wonderful retirement.

Contact MorningStar Memory Care at San Tomas

Overview of Westmont of San Jose

Boasting world-class service and hospitality, Westmont of San Jose is a premier senior living community in Milpitas, CA, offering three different care levels – independent living, assisted living, and memory care. One of the pride and joy of the community is their Live You Way™ and Adult 55+ that essentially provides unique care and service for residents. Residents here lead a maintenance-free and active lifestyle with no chores to worry about while enjoying personalized care and assistance from a hardworking care team.

Designed to foster lifelong learning, community involvement, and personal satisfaction, the community offers an extensive list of enrichment programs and a wide array of convenient amenities. These include a fitness center, indoor heated pool, private storage accommodation, and secured underground parking, among others. With access to concierge services, 24/7 team availability with on-site nurses, and post-surgery rehabilitation, residents are guaranteed to successfully age in place with all the support they need.

Contact Westmont of San Jose

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 Independent Living in San Jose, CA

What is the average cost of independent living in San Jose, CA?

The average monthly cost of independent living in San Jose, CA is approximately $2,062. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.

What is the price range for independent living in San Jose, CA?

Independent living in San Jose, CA typically ranges from $542 - $4,950 per month, depending on the community, room type, and care needs.

What is independent living?

Independent living communities are residential settings for active older adults — typically with private apartments or cottages, shared amenities (dining, fitness, activities), and no built-in medical care.

How many independent living communities are listed on this page?

This page features 12 independent living communities in San Jose, CA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in San Jose, CA?

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 San Jose, CA, 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 independent living communities in San Jose, CA?

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.