Page 40 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. HC (Home Care): Professional care delivered in the person's own home, from companionship to skilled nursing. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment. ADC (Adult Day Care): Daytime supervision, health monitoring, and social activities for seniors who live at home.
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.
Number of years the company has been in operation.
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.
St Michael Assisted Living
IL
AL
HOS
MC
RC
Saint Michael
49
Facility 49
CA AVG 168
Rank #363 / 409
No
55
Facility 55
CA AVG 59
Rank #383 / 638
A+41-Therapeutic Residential Care Services Inc-
Cambridge Court
IL
Cambridge
99
Facility 99
CA AVG 168
Rank #296 / 409
Yes
22
Facility 22
CA AVG 59
Rank #573 / 638
C41
11
Facility 11
CA AVG 15
Rank #192 / 402
-S.h.a.l. Management, Inc-
Bethel Senior Living
IL
ADC
AL
HC
HOS
NH
RC
SNF
Selma
33
Facility 33
CA AVG 168
Rank #378 / 409
No
83
Facility 83
CA AVG 59
Rank #114 / 638
?---Bethel Asst Living LLC And Bayshire Central Valley LLC-
Safe Haven – Manteca III
IL
AL
HOS
MC
Manteca
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 168
Rank #390 / 409
No
3
Facility 3
CA AVG 59
Rank #630 / 638
?1
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 15
Rank #387 / 402
-Safe Haven Manteca LLCPrivate / Shared Room
Santa Rosa Hills Senior Living
IL
AL
MC
RC
Santa Rosa
105
Facility 105
CA AVG 168
Rank #280 / 409
Yes
51
Facility 51
CA AVG 59
Rank #415 / 638
?---Santa Rosa Sl Opco LLC And Brightwater Snr Lvg Grp LLC-
Freedom Village Health Care Center
IL
AL
NH
RC
SNF
Lake Forest
52
Facility 52
CA AVG 168
Rank #362 / 409
Yes
61
Facility 61
CA AVG 59
Rank #319 / 638
?----Private / Semi-Private Suites
Avila Senior Living At Downtown SLO
IL
AL
RC
San Luis Obispo
-Yes
98
Facility 98
CA AVG 59
Rank #6 / 638
--
30
Facility 30
CA AVG 15
Rank #50 / 402
A+-1 Bed
The Heritage Downtown
IL
Walnut Creek
-Yes
94
Facility 94
CA AVG 59
Rank #30 / 638
--
25
Facility 25
CA AVG 15
Rank #103 / 402
A+-1 Bed / 2 Bed
Chateau La Jolla
IL
La Jolla
-Yes
89
Facility 89
CA AVG 59
Rank #71 / 638
--
27
Facility 27
CA AVG 15
Rank #84 / 402
A+-Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 Bed
Truewood by Merrill, Clovis
IL
AL
MC
Clovis
-Yes
60
Facility 60
CA AVG 59
Rank #334 / 638
--
41
Facility 41
CA AVG 15
Rank #13 / 402
A+-Studio / Suite / 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 St Michael Assisted Living

St Michael Assisted Living offers assisted living, hospice care, independent living, memory care, and respite care in Saint Michael, MN. Assisted living includes help with bathing, dressing, and medication while the resident keeps a private apartment, while independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care. Memory care is provided in a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering.

Hospice care supports residents with end of life needs, and respite care offers a short stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover. Having several care levels in one community may suit a resident whose needs grow over time, since care can continue without starting over in a new setting. With 49 beds, the community is smaller, giving staff and residents the opportunity to get to know one another.

Rehabilitation services are available through the community, so residents can receive therapy as part of their care. A Walk Score of 55 makes the area somewhat walkable, meaning some errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives may still be able to handle certain nearby errands independently. Harmesh Kumar serves as the administrator, and Therapeutic Residential Care Services operates the community.

Contact St Michael Assisted Living

Cambridge Court

411 Franklin Street Suite G6, Cambridge, MA 02139
Overview of Cambridge Court

Cambridge Court is an independent living community in Cambridge, MA, for adults 55 and older. Independent living offers private living with community services and no daily care, which may suit an older adult who wants to remain independent in a community setting. The community has 99 beds, and Lauren Chon serves as administrator.

Residents can choose a studio or one-bedroom unit. A studio combines the private living space in one room, while a one-bedroom unit keeps the bedroom separate from the main living area. Wheelchair accessibility supports residents who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, and pets are allowed, so residents may keep a pet in their home.

Independent living starts at $2,340, giving families an initial figure for budgeting. A landscaped courtyard provides outdoor space, and the community room hosts movie and game nights. Weekly T’ai Chi classes add a scheduled activity, while access to public transportation gives residents a way to travel beyond the community without relying solely on a private car. Meals on Wheels from Somerville/Cambridge Elder Services provides an available meal service. Cambridge Court is operated by S.h.a.l. Management.

Contact Cambridge Court

Overview of Bethel Senior Living

Bethel Senior Living in Selma, California, hosts a wide spectrum of care options, ranging from independent living and assisted living to nursing home care, adult day services, home care, hospice, and respite stays. Independent living centers on private residential spaces with shared community amenities, while assisted living incorporates assistance with bathing, dressing, and daily medications. Specialized programs include adult day health services for local non-residents, home care assistance, and short-term respite stays that allow regular family caregivers to take time off.

Jointly operated by Bethel Assisted Living and Bayshire Central Valley under administrator Benjamin Carter, the 33-bed community maintains 24-hour staffing, with registered nursing time averaging 4 hours and 10 minutes per resident each day. Physical rehabilitation options assist residents in rebuilding physical strength and functional skills. Situated in a location with an 83 walk score, the campus sits near local shops and pharmacies, allowing mobile residents to handle routine errands on foot. Accepted payment methods encompass Medicare, Medicaid, and private payment.

Families looking for a campus that accommodates changing care needs over time can contact Bethel Senior Living to request enrollment information, discuss daily care options, or schedule an in-person tour.

Contact Bethel Senior Living

Overview of Safe Haven – Manteca III

Safe Haven, Manteca III provides assisted living, hospice care, independent living, and memory care in Manteca, California. Assisted living helps with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication, while independent living offers private living with community services and no daily care. Memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering, and hospice care supports residents receiving end of life care.

The community has six beds, creating a smaller setting where staff and residents can get to know one another. Its range of care types can suit a resident whose needs grow over time without leaving the community, while private and shared rooms offer either a single living space or a companion arrangement. Ryan Alejo serves as administrator, Safe Haven Manteca operates the community, and an on site spa gives residents access to that amenity without leaving the home.

Contact Safe Haven – Manteca III

Overview of Santa Rosa Hills Senior Living

Santa Rosa Hills Senior Living, situated in California, offers a warm and inviting community with a dedicated staff committed to enhancing the senior living experience. Providing unparalleled service for both assisted living and memory care, residents have access to 4 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. The community boasts premier amenities and convenient proximity to the best Santa Rosa has to offer, including world-class medical facilities, fine dining, and renowned wineries, ensuring a classy and tranquil atmosphere while receiving attentive care.

With a focus on accessibility, Santa Rosa Hills Senior Living welcomes pets, offers complimentary transportation, and features both indoor and outdoor common areas. The community is equipped with facilities like a fitness center, movie room, game room, and arts and crafts center, tailored to accommodate various interests. Specifically designed to support those with memory loss, the secure and stimulating environment allows residents to enjoy their stay. The multilingual staff, fluent in both English and Spanish, ensures a welcoming atmosphere for individuals who speak either language, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

Contact Santa Rosa Hills Senior Living

Overview of Freedom Village Health Care Center

Freedom Village Health Care Center is a top-rated nursing home in Lake Forest, CA, offering rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Featuring private and semi-private rooms in a clean and welcoming setting, the community ensures older adults’ comfort and safety. 24-hour care, chef-prepared meals, transportation to medical appointments, and therapies are among the exceptional services provided, so residents can focus on rehabilitation and recovery. Through a comprehensive coordinated care, the community strives to provide the best possible care tailored to their needs and preferences.

Social events, light physical activities, and a variety of recreational programs encourage residents to live actively and make friends. A beauty salon & barber shop, and a beautiful outdoor fountain patio are also available for residents’ relaxation and wellness. Set near restaurants, shops, and bus stops in Lake Forest, the community guarantees quick access to necessities and leisure. As one of the trusted options for senior living in California, this nursing home ensures older adults can live to their potential.

Contact Freedom Village Health Care Center

Overview of Avila Senior Living at Downtown Slo

Avila Senior Living of the Aura Collection of Communities is an independent living and assisted living home for seniors in SLO. Considered the premier retirement home in the city, the residences provide the best convenience and comfort for seniors who want to stay active and have a quaint lifestyle. The nurturing environment empowers and enhances the quality of life for residents to relax, enjoy, and be engaged in the delightful coastal breeze of SoCal living.
The Aura Senior Living difference is committed to delivering quality care and service for each individual to be enriched and engaged in a warm Mediterranean-like atmosphere. Accommodations comprise delightful amenities and services such as enhanced floor plans, 24-hour care and supervision, gourmet meals at the restaurant-style dining room, and an in-home emergency call pendant.

Contact Avila Senior Living At Downtown SLO

Overview of The Heritage Downtown

The Heritage Downtown is an independent living community in Walnut Creek, California, offering private residences with community services and no daily care. That setup may suit someone who wants an apartment style home without assistance built into each day. One bedroom and two bedroom residences can accommodate an individual or a couple moving together, and pets are allowed, so residents do not have to leave a pet behind.

A Walk Score of 94 places the area in a walker’s paradise, where daily errands do not require a car. For a resident who no longer drives, that can make it possible to get out independently. Newton’s Fine Dining is the on site restaurant, with weekly menus, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, giving residents several dining options within the community.

There is also a heated pool and spa available throughout the year, along with health and wellness programs and landscaped outdoor spaces. Classes, activities, events, and off site excursions add organized ways to exercise, spend time outdoors, and stay involved.

Contact The Heritage Downtown

Overview of Chateau La Jolla

At Chateau La Jolla, older adults are encouraged to be active to the best of their capabilities. Only half a block away from the beach and three blocks away from downtown La Jolla, this facility’s location is perfect for those who want to be nearby the beach and at the same time be able to explore the exciting amenities of La Jolla.

Aside from this, it offers beautiful spaces that are newly renovated, giving their residents a spacious area to relax and rest. At Chateau La Jolla, they also believe that retirement is the time where one should do what they love to do, which is why they also offer various activities and events to make sure that their residents are kept engaged and will enjoy their stay there.

Contact Chateau La Jolla

Overview of Truewood by Merrill, Clovis

Serving the Clovis and Fresno communities since 1998, Truewood by Merrill, Clovis is a welcoming senior living community located in Clovis, CA, offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care. The community features 113 apartments, including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, providing a welcoming environment with a rich heritage of small-town warmth and hospitality. With a full calendar of activities, seniors can enjoy new and fun experiences every day.

Truewood by Merrill, Clovis puts residents at the center of everything they do, promoting a fulfilling and active lifestyle. The community offers a range of amenities, including a cozy fireplace, private mailboxes, basic cable TV, a beauty salon, TV rooms, lounges, landscaped gardens, a library, and laundry facilities. Residents enjoy access to 24-hour support, on-call specialists, flexible dining with chef-prepared meals, on-site maintenance, weekly housekeeping, creative social programs, pet therapy, and on-site RNs/LPNs to support their wellness needs.

Contact Truewood by Merrill, Clovis

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.