Page 6 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. 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.
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.
Wesley Palms
IL
AL
MC
San Diego (Pacific Beach)
511
Facility 511
CA AVG 168
Rank #18 / 409
Yes
19
Facility 19
CA AVG 59
Rank #582 / 638
B+17
4
Facility 4
CA AVG 13
Rank #87 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
26
Facility 26
CA AVG 15
Rank #97 / 402
72.6%
Facility 72.6%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #185 / 361
Front Porch Communities And Services1 Bed / 2 Bed
Atria Newport Plaza
IL
AL
MC
Newport Beach (Superior Heights)
160
Facility 160
CA AVG 168
Rank #154 / 409
Yes
85
Facility 85
CA AVG 59
Rank #99 / 638
A-24
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 13
Rank #165 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 15
Rank #240 / 402
73.1%
Facility 73.1%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #179 / 361
Vsl Gp II LLC, Gp Of Vaoc Newport Plaza LP And AtriaStudio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Atria Covina
IL
AL
RC
Covina
90
Facility 90
CA AVG 168
Rank #319 / 409
Yes
87
Facility 87
CA AVG 59
Rank #90 / 638
A-21
12
Facility 12
CA AVG 13
Rank #223 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
37
Facility 37
CA AVG 15
Rank #22 / 402
70.0%
Facility 70.0%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #209 / 361
Wg Covina Sh LP And Atria Management Co LLCStudio / 1 Bed
Atria Newport Beach
IL
AL
MC
Newport Beach (Superior Heights)
195
Facility 195
CA AVG 168
Rank #104 / 409
Yes
87
Facility 87
CA AVG 59
Rank #90 / 638
B+19
7
Facility 7
CA AVG 13
Rank #153 / 391
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 3
Rank #185 / 398
5
Facility 5
CA AVG 15
Rank #291 / 402
86.2%
Facility 86.2%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #67 / 361
Aslo Gp LLC, Gp Of Newport Beach Opco LP And Atria MgmtStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Eskaton Village Grass Valley
IL
AL
MC
Grass Valley (Eskaton Village)
160
Facility 160
CA AVG 168
Rank #154 / 409
Yes
2
Facility 2
CA AVG 59
Rank #635 / 638
A-17
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 13
Rank #124 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
24
Facility 24
CA AVG 15
Rank #111 / 402
81.3%
Facility 81.3%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #107 / 361
Eskaton Properties Inc1 Bed / 2 Bed
Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga
IL
AL
MC
Rancho Cucamonga (Alta Loma)
150
Facility 150
CA AVG 168
Rank #178 / 409
Yes
49
Facility 49
CA AVG 59
Rank #427 / 638
A-11
5
Facility 5
CA AVG 13
Rank #111 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 15
Rank #225 / 402
77.3%
Facility 77.3%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #135 / 361
Rancho Cucamonga And Merrill Gardens Shi-III Mg DevStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Merrill Gardens at West Covina
IL
AL
MC
West Covina (Walnut Valley)
150
Facility 150
CA AVG 168
Rank #178 / 409
Yes
76
Facility 76
CA AVG 59
Rank #183 / 638
A-14
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 13
Rank #124 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
5
Facility 5
CA AVG 15
Rank #291 / 402
70.0%
Facility 70.0%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #209 / 361
Shi-III Mg Dev Gp, LLC And Merrill Gardens, LLCStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Westmont of Cypress
IL
AL
MC
Cypress
152
Facility 152
CA AVG 168
Rank #174 / 409
Yes
49
Facility 49
CA AVG 59
Rank #427 / 638
A-14
8
Facility 8
CA AVG 13
Rank #165 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
4
Facility 4
CA AVG 15
Rank #322 / 402
88.8%
Facility 88.8%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #54 / 361
Westmont Living, Inc And Wm Cypress Mgr.lp Gp Of CypStudio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton
IL
CCRC
Pleasanton
828
Facility 828
CA AVG 168
Rank #3 / 409
No
47
Facility 47
CA AVG 59
Rank #444 / 638
A-15
6
Facility 6
CA AVG 13
Rank #124 / 391
0
Facility 0
CA AVG 3
Rank #1 / 398
12
Facility 12
CA AVG 15
Rank #173 / 402
90.6%
Facility 90.6%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #44 / 361
Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton Ccrc LLC-
Escondido Senior Living
IL
AL
MC
RC
Escondido (Midway)
143
Facility 143
CA AVG 168
Rank #204 / 409
Yes
83
Facility 83
CA AVG 59
Rank #114 / 638
B25
17
Facility 17
CA AVG 13
Rank #272 / 391
1
Facility 1
CA AVG 3
Rank #118 / 398
13
Facility 13
CA AVG 15
Rank #167 / 402
75.5%
Facility 75.5%
CA AVG 71.7%
Rank #160 / 361
Pacifica North Cnty & Pac N Cnty And North County MgrStudio / 1 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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Wesley Palms

Wesley Palms Retirement Community, 2404 Loring St, San Diego, CA 92109
Overview of Wesley Palms

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.

Contact Wesley Palms

Overview of Atria Newport Plaza

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.

Contact Atria Newport Plaza

Atria Covina

Atria Covina, 825 W San Bernardino Rd, Covina, CA 91722
Overview of Atria Covina

Situated in a quiet residential neighborhood in Covina, California, inside Los Angeles County, Atria Covina is a premier senior living community that accommodates different levels of care needs by providing active independent living and assisted living options. Atria Covina offers its residents a wide range of amenities, including housekeeping, chef-prepared meals, and concierge support, all of which are provided by a committed team of people who work around the clock.

Atria Covina strives to improve residents’ quality of life by providing caring assistance and interesting amenities. The neighborhood has walking trails, a patio, outdoor grilling, a private dining area, off-site pool access, a library, a salon, and a game room. Atria Covina is pet-friendly, has Wi-Fi in open spaces, and offers daily opportunities for social, cultural, educational, and physical fitness, making it a perfect senior living community for those wishing to live a vibrant and fulfilling retirement.

Contact Atria Covina

Overview of Atria Newport Beach

Atria Newport Beach is a well-recognized retirement community in Newport Beach, CA, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Promoting a warm and home-like environment, the community ensures older adults can feel at ease during their stay. Chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, and 24-hour care are among the exceptional services that aim to help residents maintain their independence with ease. Focusing on residents’ holistic wellness, the community provides individualized care plans. 

Social events, fitness exercises, and a variety of activities provide residents with more opportunities to interact with friends and have fun. A yoga studio, a fitness center, and beautiful outdoor spaces also ensure residents can rest without worries. Set along Hospital Road, near Hoag Memorial Hospital and public transportation, the community ensures convenient access to healthcare and travel. This retirement community is one of the finest options for senior living in California, especially with its top-notch care and well-maintained amenities. 

Contact Atria Newport Beach

Overview of Eskaton Village Grass Valley

Nestled in the scenic town of Grass Valley, CA, Eskaton Village Grass Valley provides a premier senior living experience within a vibrant 42-acre community. Residents can choose from a range of independent living, assisted living, and memory care options, with thoughtfully designed floor plans tailored to their lifestyles. With a dedicated team available around the clock, Eskaton Village fosters a supportive environment where residents can stay active, secure, and fully at ease.

The community offers amenities that promote both wellness and enjoyment, including a fitness center with a heated indoor pool, a full-service beauty salon, and two libraries. Residents can savor nutritious, chef-prepared meals in a welcoming dining space and enjoy a variety of recreational and social outings. At Eskaton Village, each day brings opportunities for connection, comfort, and peace of mind in a warm and engaging community.

Contact Eskaton Village Grass Valley

Overview of Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga

Overlooking the picturesque scenery of Highland Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga is a unique senior living community providing assisted living, independent living, and memory care. With its luxurious and well-designed residences including a wide array of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, seniors experience unrivaled comfort and security. The community goes above and beyond to deliver world-class care and assistance for seniors living without worries.

Spend your golden years in the vibrant and inviting environment of Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga. Participate in a jam-packed calendar of activities and engage in fun programs to maintain an actively engaged lifestyle. Delight with healthy and tasty meals catering to dietary needs and preferences. With its stunning amenities and scenic views, Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga strives to provide a safe place for seniors to thrive and enjoy every moment of their retirement.

Contact Merrill Gardens at Rancho Cucamonga

Overview of Merrill Gardens at West Covina

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.

Contact Merrill Gardens at West Covina

Overview of Westmont of Cypress

Located in the neighborhood of Cypress, CA, Westmont of Cypress is a remarkable senior living community that offers various care levels, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Inspired to offer a resort-style living experience, the community features an array of carefully designed accommodations with on-site maintenance for a carefree lifestyle. A dependable care team is available to provide various care and support should residents need it, helping them maintain their independence and peace of mind.

Fostering lifelong learning, community engagement, and personal satisfaction, the community offers a wide range of amenities like an outdoor pool, fitness center, bistro, theater, and therapy services. Residents find enrichment and entertainment from the community’s vibrant activities and events. Carefully prepared meals are also served daily to make sure residents always have the energy for an active everyday life.

Contact Westmont of Cypress

Overview of Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton

Burrowed in the quiet area of Contra Costa County, Pleasanton, CA, Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton is a distinctive senior living community that offers independent living and long-term care. Beautiful and spacious accommodations await residents, providing them utmost comfort and privacy. Residents enjoy a hassle-free living with housekeeping, linen, maintenance, and transportation handled by a dedicated team.

The community warrants quick assistance during times of needs or emergencies with 24-hour emergency call systems installed within the community. A variety of regularly conducted activities make residents’ lives more enjoyable and interesting, complemented with plenty of delightful amenities. Residents enjoy access to a woodworking shop, movie theater, pickleball & tennis, garden center, and art studio for exploration, entertainment, or picking up new skills.

Contact Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton

Escondido Senior Living

1351 E Washington Ave, Escondido, CA 92027
Overview of Escondido Senior Living

Situated in the welcoming community of Escondido, California, Escondido Senior Living is a distinguished senior living community. Their mission is to inspire senior residents to lead active, engaged lifestyles while considering this senior living community as their cherished home. Specializing in providing both assisted living and memory care services, they take pride in offering an extensive array of amenities and limitless opportunities for life enrichment.

With a steadfast commitment to round-the-clock care and maintaining an ideal staff-to-resident ratio, Escondido Senior Living ensures that each resident receives the care they need, tailored to their unique service plan. Their personalized approach is fundamental to their goal of enhancing the well-being and quality of life of every resident they serve.

Contact Escondido Senior Living

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.