Page 33 of Best Independent Living in California

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 640 independent living communities in CA using CA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in CA
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We analyzed These are the facilities in California our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in California.
640 homes
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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-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our 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. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care. CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community): A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
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.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
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.
Better Business Bureau grade for the operating company. Reflects complaint handling and business practices, not clinical care quality.
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.
Westmont of Santa Barbara
IL
AL
MC
Goleta
99
Facility 99
CA AVG 168
Rank #296 / 409
Yes
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 59
Rank #565 / 638
D-43
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 13
Rank #324 / 391
18
Facility 18
CA AVG 3
Rank #388 / 398
9
Facility 9
CA AVG 15
Rank #212 / 402
72.7%
Facility 72.7%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #184 / 361
AMariposa Mgr Gp Of Mariposa Oper And Westmont LivingStudio / 1 Bed
Melrose Gardens
IL
AL
MC
Los Angeles
31
Facility 31
CA AVG 168
Rank #380 / 409
No
60
Facility 60
CA AVG 59
Rank #334 / 638
B-7
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 13
Rank #41 / 391
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #118 / 398
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 15
Rank #367 / 402
--Danmar Villas, LLC-
Cedar Creek Retirement
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
Madera
162
Facility 162
CA AVG 168
Rank #151 / 409
Yes
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 59
Rank #608 / 638
D45
20
Facility 20
CA AVG 13
Rank #300 / 391
21
Facility 21
CA AVG 3
Rank #393 / 398
22
Facility 22
CA AVG 15
Rank #117 / 402
59.9%
Facility 59.9%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #280 / 361
A+Gahc4 Madera Ca Trs Sub And Cogir Sl Cedar Creek LLC-
Kaego‘s Richman Gardens by SCH
IL
AL
MC
RC
Fullerton
26
Facility 26
CA AVG 168
Rank #384 / 409
Yes
81
Facility 81
CA AVG 59
Rank #132 / 638
D+18
4
Facility 4
CA AVG 13
Rank #87 / 391
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 3
Rank #354 / 398
4
Facility 4
CA AVG 15
Rank #322 / 402
73.1%
Facility 73.1%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #179 / 361
-Specialized Community Healthcare Company-
Pacific Grove Senior Living
IL
AL
MC
RC
Pacific Grove (Pacific Grove Acres)
150
Facility 150
CA AVG 168
Rank #178 / 409
Yes
90
Facility 90
CA AVG 59
Rank #61 / 638
C56
37
Facility 37
CA AVG 13
Rank #369 / 391
5
Facility 5
CA AVG 3
Rank #302 / 398
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 15
Rank #338 / 402
57.3%
Facility 57.3%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #289 / 361
-Pacific Grove Senior Living LLC And Ca Snr Lvg Mgt LLC-
Serra Highlands Senior Living
IL
AL
MC
RC
Daly City (Serramonte)
120
Facility 120
CA AVG 168
Rank #252 / 409
Yes
56
Facility 56
CA AVG 59
Rank #373 / 638
C34
18
Facility 18
CA AVG 13
Rank #283 / 391
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 3
Rank #341 / 398
27
Facility 27
CA AVG 15
Rank #84 / 402
46.7%
Facility 46.7%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #335 / 361
-Pacifica Cl Ca LLC, Pacifica Daly 2 LP, And Daly City-
The Hampshire – A Provincial Senior Living Community
IL
Merced
93
Facility 93
CA AVG 168
Rank #316 / 409
Yes
34
Facility 34
CA AVG 59
Rank #524 / 638
D60
35
Facility 35
CA AVG 13
Rank #363 / 391
14
Facility 14
CA AVG 3
Rank #381 / 398
11
Facility 11
CA AVG 15
Rank #192 / 402
90.3%
Facility 90.3%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #46 / 361
-Northstar Senior Living IncStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / Cottage
Riverstone Terrace Senior Living
IL
AL
MC
RC
Bakersfield
55
Facility 55
CA AVG 168
Rank #359 / 409
Yes
41
Facility 41
CA AVG 59
Rank #482 / 638
D23
13
Facility 13
CA AVG 13
Rank #232 / 391
5
Facility 5
CA AVG 3
Rank #302 / 398
18
Facility 18
CA AVG 15
Rank #139 / 402
38.2%
Facility 38.2%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #353 / 361
-Pacifica Bakersfieldlp And Calson Care Bakersfield LLCStudio / Suite / 1 Bed
Canterbury Woods
IL
AL
NH
SNF
Pacific Grove
190
Facility 190
CA AVG 168
Rank #106 / 409
Yes
81
Facility 81
CA AVG 59
Rank #132 / 638
?13
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 13
Rank #41 / 391
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #118 / 398
42
Facility 42
CA AVG 15
Rank #12 / 402
72.6%
Facility 72.6%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #185 / 361
A+Front Porch Communities And Services1 Bed / 2 Bed
Regents Point
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Irvine (University Town Center)
399
Facility 399
CA AVG 168
Rank #26 / 409
Yes
71
Facility 71
CA AVG 59
Rank #238 / 638
?19
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 13
Rank #153 / 391
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #118 / 398
44
Facility 44
CA AVG 15
Rank #11 / 402
82.0%
Facility 82.0%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #104 / 361
A+Humangood & Humangood SocalStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each independent living community is ranked against every other CA independent living community we track that reports that metric, not just the 640 on this page. See how we rank facilities

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Overview of Westmont of Santa Barbara

Have a blissful retirement with the distinguished senior living community of Westmont of Santa Barbara in Goleta, CA, which provides assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. With its commitment to improving residents’ quality of life, the community features purposely built and sophisticated amenities, alongside top-tier care and assistance. Residents have more time to do the things they love with a compassionate and highly trained team caring for their personal needs and household responsibilities.

Here, residents always have something new to learn with a full calendar of enjoyable activities and engaging events that encourage them to maintain an active lifestyle. Delightful and healthy meals are also available throughout the day, ensuring residents have a satisfactory dining experience. Westmont of Santa Barbara doubles its efforts to create a haven where residents thrive and reach their full potential with its state-of-the-art amenities and a trusted community.

Contact Westmont of Santa Barbara

Melrose Gardens

960 North Martel Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Overview of Melrose Gardens

Melrose Gardens offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care in Los Angeles, CA. Assisted living includes help with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication while residents maintain private living spaces; Independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care; Memory care offers a secured setting with supervision for someone who may be at risk of wandering. The community has 31 beds, making it a smaller setting where staff and residents can get to know one another.

Melrose Gardens may be a good fit for someone whose needs could grow from independent living to assisted living or memory care, since all three care levels are available within the same community. A Walk Score of 60 places the area in the somewhat walkable band, so some errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives may be able to reach some nearby destinations independently; transportation is also available for appointments, errands, or other destinations. Joseph Wieder serves as administrator, and Danmar Villas operates Melrose Gardens.

Contact Melrose Gardens

Overview of Cedar Creek Retirement

Cedar Creek Retirement, situated in Madera, California, provides exceptional services, including independent living, assisted living, and specialized care for Alzheimer’s and dementia. The community exudes a vibrant and genuine atmosphere, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Spacious apartments and a plethora of activities offer residents ample opportunities for engagement.

The dining experience is elevated, and a variety of amenities such as a library, fitness center, lounge area, heated swimming pool, dog park, and beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces enhance the living experience. Cedar Creek Retirement goes beyond the basics, fostering a vibrant culture that encourages the development of mind, body, and spirit. With a commitment to residents’ well-being and a wide range of offerings, this community provides a holistic and enriching lifestyle for individuals seeking a retirement experience that’s one for the books.

Contact Cedar Creek Retirement

Overview of Kaego‘s Richman Gardens by Sch

Kaego’s Richman Gardens by Special Community Healthcare (SCH) offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere where residents and staff are encouraged to create friendships and build a mutual level of trust with each other. Specializing in assisted living for memory care seniors– the facility home aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents by ensuring that seniors can satisfy their holistic wellness.

Kaego’s Richman Gardens ensures its residents remain independent and fully supported throughout their journey. They offer amenities and services, including a library, recreational center, outdoor walking paths, a dining room, services such as housekeeping and linen, transportation, daily activities, and memory care training programs.

Contact Kaego‘s Richman Gardens by SCH

Pacific Grove Senior Living

551 Gibson Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Overview of Pacific Grove Senior Living

Pacific Grove Senior Living offers a distinct blend of independent and assisted living services, located in the vibrant California. What sets them apart is their dedication to providing personalized care, enriching every resident’s experience within a home-like environment while bringing a modern touch to senior living. The community boasts stunning outdoor spaces that echo tranquility and style, offering residents a serene backdrop for their daily lives.
Its residents can benefit from seamless personal assistance services and engaging activities tailored to promote cognitive, creative, motor, and sensory health. Scheduled transportation and abundant common areas also facilitate socializing, enhancing the sense of community this home can provide. Additionally, the community provides meticulous medication management, ensuring residents’ well-being. With 24-hour care punctuated by the soothing play of sunlight through the trees in its outdoor areas, Pacific Grove Senior Living offers an ideal setting for residents to enjoy their golden years in comfort and peace.

Contact Pacific Grove Senior Living

Overview of Serra Highlands Senior Living

Sierra Highlands has built its trusted reputation on outstanding customer service that has earned the respect of being a reliable independent living and assisted living home just a few minutes away from San Francisco. They stand strong as one of the quality senior living communities in Daly City that guarantees residents feel at home and like family. Sierra Highlands aims to promote a community that can enhance the quality of life for each resident.
Sierra Highlands services exceptional dining experiences, innovative programs, and educational activities. The staff is committed to enhancing the lives of the residents, so they provide the necessary additional support needed.

Contact Serra Highlands Senior Living

Overview of The Hampshire – a Provincial Senior Living Community

Promising a retirement filled with fun and warmth, The Hampshire is a distinguished senior living community located in the serene residential area of R Street, Merced, CA, that offers independent living. Have a cozy and safe retirement with purposely built residences in a variety of suites, cottages, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans. The community prides itself in a kind and compassionate team helping seniors with their daily chores and housekeeping.

A robust calendar of enrichment activities and enjoyable programs accompany seniors as they make the most out of their days. Indulge in healthy and tasty meals catering to nutritional requirements and preferences. Stroll with your pets in the scenic walking paths and relax in the gardens. Filled with incredible amenities and serene spaces, The Hampshire is ideal for seniors aiming to make their golden years more meaningful.

Contact The Hampshire – A Provincial Senior Living Community

Riverstone Terrace Senior Living

3209 Brookside Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93311
Overview of Riverstone Terrace Senior Living

Located in Bakersfield, California, Riverstone Terrace Senior Living is a senior living community offering Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Respite Care options. This community is dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of every senior resident they serve. This all-inclusive environment is carefully crafted to enable residents to lead the active, engaged lifestyle they’ve always imagined.

Riverstone Terrace Senior Living assesses the specific needs of each incoming resident, striving to create a personalized and well-balanced blend of support and independence. Within the various senior living options at Riverstone Terrace Senior Living, residents enjoy access to chef-prepared dining, engaging life enrichment programs, housekeeping services, and many other amenities.

Contact Riverstone Terrace Senior Living

Overview of Canterbury Woods

Canterbury Woods is a 190 bed community in Pacific Grove, CA, offering independent living, assisted living, nursing home care, and skilled nursing. The range of care levels may suit a resident whose needs could become more intensive over time, because moving among levels may allow the resident to remain in the community, subject to availability and clinical fit. Nursing home and skilled nursing care serve residents who need ongoing nursing or clinical care beyond independent or assisted living, while assisted living provides help with daily personal care tasks and independent living is intended for residents who can manage personal care without routine hands on assistance.

With 190 beds, Canterbury Woods is sized for many residents rather than a small household setting. Its 73% occupancy indicates that the community was below full capacity when measured, but that does not establish availability in the care level a resident needs.

Medicare and private pay are accepted, so payment may involve Medicare coverage for eligible services or direct payment by the resident or family for selected care and related charges. An 81 Walk Score places the area in the very walkable band, meaning most errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives can still get out independently. Total nurse staffing is 6 hours 18 minutes per resident per day, including 1 hour 58 minutes per resident per day from licensed nurses such as RNs and LPNs; these are facility level staffing figures and do not guarantee individual nursing time. Pets are allowed, so residents may be able to keep a pet at the community. Ryan Banner is the administrator, and Front Porch Communities And Services operates Canterbury Woods.

Contact Canterbury Woods

Overview of Regents Point

Beautifully nestled near William R Mason Regional Park in Irvine, CA, Regents Point is an exceptional life plan community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Residents can keep their peace of mind with a compassionate and highly trained team attending to their needs around the clock. The community also helps with housekeeping and chores, so residents can focus on the things they truly enjoy.

Exciting events and enriching programs are conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and make new friends. Delightful and healthy meals are served to satisfy residents’ dietary needs and preferences. With its comprehensive care and extensive amenities, residents experience a better quality of life in their golden years.

Contact Regents Point

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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Independent Living in California at a glance

Avg Walk Score: 59/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in California. 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: 168The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in California. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90
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Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in California

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 640 independent living communities in California. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in California?

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 California, 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 California?

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.