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We rank communities on objective measures like inspection records, quality scores, and care data, so you can find trusted options without the guesswork.
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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 648 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
Video Tour: Top-rated Independent Living facilities in California.
Watch this Video to see California's Top-rated Senior Communities
Avg Walk Score:57/ 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:103The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in California. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
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 TableAL (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.
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.
The ALM Inspection Grade — our own 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. It is not a government rating. A dash means we do not publish a grade for that facility: either its public record is too thin to be fair, or we hold nothing for it at all.
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.
B+87 / 100 — 4 points above the California average for state-licensed facilities (83/100)
6
0
Facility0
CA AVG13
Rank#1 / 1,387
1
Facility1
CA AVG3
Rank#478 / 1,433
3
Facility3
CA AVG13
Rank#1,186 / 1,452
100.0%
Facility100.0%
CA AVG74.6%
Rank#1 / 1,313
Inland Senior Manor Inc
1 Bed / 2 Bed
Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every CA community we track that reports that metric, not just the 648 on this page. See how we rank facilities
Overview of Carlton Senior Living Pleasant Hill – Martinez
Carlton Senior Living Pleasant Hill – Martinez is an outstanding senior living community in Contra Costa County, Pleasant Hill, CA. offering independent living and assisted living. The community guarantees residents’ safety and security with 24-hour team members availability and emergency call system. Residents are free from the common worries of daily living with housekeeping, cleaning, laundry, maintenance, and utilities handled by a dedicated team within the community.
There’s always something going on with fitness classes, live music, and educational seminars, regularly conducted by the community. Convenient access to onsite physical therapy and invigorating fitness programs for all abilities, ensure residents are always on top of their health and wellness. Exquisite restaurant-style dining is made possible by a culinary team that carefully prepares delicious and health conscious meals.
Overlooking the beautiful scenery located on Hodencamp Road, Thousand Oaks, CA, Atria Hillcrest is an idyllic senior living community offering various care options including assisted living, independent living, and memory care. The community features cozy and warm floor plans including a studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and shared suite. With a team of dedicated and highly skilled professionals, Atria Hillcrest delivers round-the-clock care and assistance.
Atria Hillcrest is a serene senior living community that provides safe and comfortable accommodations to its residents. Here, they ensure the quality of life of the seniors through the community’s exclusive Engage Life program which allows the seniors to participate in tai chi, discussions of current events, and enjoy the company of other residents. Healthy meals are provided three times every day in the bistro or private dining rooms. Basking in the serenity of the community, Atria Hillcrest ensures relaxing and secure residences.
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.
Tucked away in the heart of Palm Desert, CA, Segovia is a luxury senior living community that offers independent living and assisted living. Residents enjoy the warmth and comfort of Segovia’s carefully designed apartments, ranging from studio units to spacious two-bedroom residences. A full-time nurse and compassionate team is available 24/7, to provide assistance and support tailored to the unique needs of each resident.
The community takes immense pride in creating inviting environments that exude elegance and sophistication, which is also evident in their wide array of amenities. Residents can take a dip in the heated swimming pool, bask in the sun at the beautiful courtyard, or appreciate the blooming flowers by the garden’s twisting paths. An excellent culinary team brings their exceptional expertise to every meal, ensuring residents are nourished with carefully prepared dishes made from the freshest ingredients.
Kokoro Assisted Living is a wonderful senior living community that embraces both Japanese and American heritage and culture. The community’s emphasis on cultural activities, celebrations, and cuisine is a great way to foster a sense of community and create a unique experience for its residents. Kokoro offers a variety of independent and assisted living apartment styles to fit the needs of its residents. The availability of one-bedroom apartments and some studio apartments for double occupancy is especially convenient.
The community’s peaceful sanctuary, outdoor courtyard, and library offer a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere. The focus on staying active through exercise, strength, and spiritual wellness programs is important for maintaining physical and mental health in older adults.
Create unforgettable moments at Avocet Playa Vista, an idyllic retreat in Los Angeles, CA, that offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Featuring beautifully furnished and secure one- and two-bedroom floor plans, the community ensures residents are comfortable and safe. Residents also receive top-tier care tailored to their unique needs from a kind and highly skilled team available around the clock.
A thoughtfully curated calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs is conducted to keep residents active and socially connected. Delicious and healthy meals are also served to satisfy residents’ dietary needs and preferences. With its extensive amenities and dedicated services, the community creates the ideal setting where residents can thrive in retirement.
Nestled in the heart of San Diego, California, Wesley Palms is an award-winning, modern, multi-level retirement community that offers captivating views of Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Tailored to meet its residents’ unique needs and desires, Wesley Palms provides a lifestyle where the freedom to relax and enjoy life to the fullest is complemented by the assurance that everything is meticulously taken care of. With independent senior living, assisted living, and memory care offerings, Wesley Palms exudes elegance, creating a setting where residents can truly thrive.
The landscaped grounds surrounding Wesley Palms evoke the warmth and tranquility of an established neighborhood park, providing a breathtaking backdrop for residents to explore, bask in the San Diego sunshine, and connect with friends. These lush surroundings become integral to a life filled with fun, relaxation, and endless possibilities. Whether one seeks an active lifestyle, engaging social opportunities, or simply a place to savor life’s moments, Wesley Palms extends a warm invitation to make a move. Within this exceptional senior living community, residents can discover the warmth, inspiration, and fulfillment that await them, creating a haven where every day is an opportunity to embrace the best of life.
Atria Newport Plaza offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care in Newport Beach, California. Assisted living includes help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication while the resident maintains an apartment; independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care; and memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering.
The range of care levels may suit a resident whose needs grow over time without requiring a move to another community. Atria Newport Plaza has 160 beds, with studio, suite, one bedroom, and two bedroom layouts, so a resident can choose a single private space or, in a two bedroom, move in with a partner.
Pets are allowed, which means a resident can keep a pet in the community. With a Walk Score of 85, most errands are possible on foot, so someone who no longer drives can still get out independently. Johanna Gonzalez serves as the administrator.
Located in the harmonious neighborhood of W West Covina Parkway, West Covina, CA, is the trusted senior living community of Merrill Gardens at West Covina offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care. With its naturally lit and spacious accommodations, seniors enjoy relaxation and security like no other. Delivering round-the-clock care and assistance, the community prides itself on a team of compassionate and highly trained professionals to ensure residents flourish and live their best lives.
There is always something fun to do with a wide array of engaging activities and enjoyable programs highlighting residents’ interests and strengths. Have a delightful dining experience with well-balanced meals available throughout the day for dietary satisfaction. Merrill Gardens at West Covina is a good place for seniors to spend their golden years creating lasting moments.
The Laguna, a serene independent living community, situated in the idyllic Sunset Junction beckons senior citizens to indulge in the glorious Californian lifestyle. The home boasts stunning indigenous plants, creating a refreshing landscape that adds a touch of airy feel to the property. Its apartments are designed with keen attention to detail and boast ample lighting, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. With a wide variety of affordable 1 and 2 bedroom floor plans, residents can choose an abode that resonates with their personalities.
The four-story building encompasses expansive common areas, replete with a laundry room and outdoor patios, perfect for basking in the sun and enjoying the balmy breeze. The air is pure and clean since the community is entirely smoke-free, allowing seniors to relish the invigorating atmosphere. The parking garage and four stories offer a panoramic view of Myrna Avenue, where the sun deck adds a pop of color and excitement throughout the year.
Every community above is evaluated across six weighted categories using public data including state inspection records, review platforms, BBB profiles, and operator-published materials.
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 rankingsCommunities 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
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 648 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.
If you move into a community through us, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never changes your cost or which options we recommend. Learn more
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