Best Independent Living in Honolulu, HI

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 6 independent living communities in Honolulu, HI using HI Dept. of Health data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in HI
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Honolulu, HI our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Honolulu, HI.
6 homes
Other senior care options in Honolulu:
Avg Walk Score: 75/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Honolulu, HI. 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: 62The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Honolulu, HI. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around Honolulu

Info below is compiled from the HI Dept. of Health, senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking 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. ADC (Adult Day Care): Daytime supervision, health monitoring, and social activities for seniors who live at home. HMC (Haliʻa Memory Care): SR (Short-Term Respite):
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.
Description of bed or unit types offered (e.g. assisted living, memory care), as reported in state or facility disclosures.
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.
How many inspections had one or more deficiencies recorded. Compare to total inspections to see how often problems were found on visit.
Total count of deficiencies (cited regulatory issues) recorded in the selected reporting period. Read alongside inspection counts for context.
The average number of deficiencies this facility receives each time it's inspected, calculated as total deficiencies ÷ total inspections. A lower number suggests more consistent compliance with safety and care standards.
15 Craigside
IL
ADC
AL
HC
NH
SNF
Honolulu (Nuuanu - Punchbowl)
45
Facility 45
HI AVG 43
Rank #25 / 84
No
50
Facility 50
HI AVG 50
Rank #85 / 174
Studio / 1 Bed-A+
4
Facility 4
HI AVG 3.3
Rank #36 / 56
14
Facility 14
HI AVG 25
Rank #25 / 56
2.0
Facility 2.0
HI AVG 6.3
Rank #13 / 56
Arcadia Retirement Residence
IL
ADC
HC
NH
SNF
Honolulu
91
Facility 91
HI AVG 43
Rank #18 / 84
No
86
Facility 86
HI AVG 50
Rank #27 / 174
--A+
8
Facility 8
HI AVG 3.3
Rank #54 / 56
42
Facility 42
HI AVG 25
Rank #47 / 56
4.7
Facility 4.7
HI AVG 6.3
Rank #28 / 56
Kalākaua Gardens
IL
AL
MC
NH
RC
SNF
Honolulu (Ala Moana)
49
Facility 49
HI AVG 43
Rank #23 / 84
No
98
Facility 98
HI AVG 50
Rank #3 / 174
Private Suites--
4
Facility 4
HI AVG 3.3
Rank #36 / 56
25
Facility 25
HI AVG 25
Rank #35 / 56
6.3
Facility 6.3
HI AVG 6.3
Rank #34 / 56
The Plaza at Punchbowl
IL
AL
HMC
SR
Honolulu
-No
88
Facility 88
HI AVG 50
Rank #24 / 174
Studio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
28
Facility 28
HI AVG 19
Rank #8 / 43
A+
3
Facility 3
HI AVG 3.3
Rank #15 / 56
8
Facility 8
HI AVG 25
Rank #15 / 56
2.7
Facility 2.7
HI AVG 6.3
Rank #17 / 56
Ilima at Leihano
IL
AL
MC
Kapolei (City Center)
-Yes
67
Facility 67
HI AVG 50
Rank #54 / 174
-
19
Facility 19
HI AVG 19
Rank #21 / 43
----
Kaluanui Senior Apartments
IL
Honolulu
-No
60
Facility 60
HI AVG 50
Rank #67 / 174
Studio-----

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every HI community we track that reports that metric, not just the 6 analyzed for Honolulu.

Overview of 15 Craigside

Burrowed at the heart of downtown Honolulu, 15 Craigside enchants with a picturesque view of the mountains and valleys near Craigside Place, Honolulu, HI providing independent living. The community features well-lit and spacious floor plans including studio and one-bedroom apartments with den and private lanais. With the seniors’ welfare in mind, 15 Craigside strives to deliver care and assistance tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

The community fosters a friendly and vibrant environment, providing seniors with activities and programs for learning and enjoyment. Satisfying its residents’ dietary needs and preferences, the community serves delicious and healthy meals three times a day. Amenities include a fitness center, an indoor pool, a spacious lobby, a library, a chapel, a resident store, and a beautiful solarium.

Contact 15 Craigside

Overview of Arcadia Retirement Residence

Arcadia, a cherished haven for Honolulu’s seniors since 1967, is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Makiki. Spread across three picturesque acres, this vibrant retirement community provides a safe and comfortable sanctuary for the elderly. Its prime location offers easy access to the bustling Downtown district, the sun-soaked Waikiki Beach, and the thriving Ala Moana Center via public transport or car. Additionally, several houses of worship are within walking distance, providing spiritual solace to residents.
Upon entering Arcadia, you’ll be enchanted by its elegance and tranquility. The state-of-the-art facilities cater to all needs, including a well-equipped fitness center, indoor pool, and exquisite restaurant-style dining room, and a spacious lobby. For those seeking solitude and relaxation, the computer and garden areas are the perfect retreats. Residents can shop for basic essentials at the resident store, and ample parking and private group transportation to selected events are available for their convenience. With 24-hour security and linen service, residents can rest assured knowing they’re in good hands. At Arcadia, the cost of living is a mere concern, which is why they offer a one-time entrance fee followed by a monthly service charge that covers all amenities and services. Residents can bask in the joys of life and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime at Arcadia, the place they can call home.

Contact Arcadia Retirement Residence

Overview of Kalākaua Gardens

Kalākaua Gardens, located in Honolulu, HI, is a senior living community primarily offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services. Their independent living option provides residents with studio-style and one bedroom accommodations featuring emergency alert systems, and personalized climate control. All utilities are also already covered except for telephone, and in room wifi and cable services are also available.

This senior living community’s amenities provides residents with so many things to enjoy; from their chef-prepared meals in a restaurant style dining room, to their housekeeping services, and scheduled transportation. Additionally, the residents may also participate in fitness classes as well as social and cultural outings, providing opportunities to create new relationships in their retirement years, as well as memories to look back on.

Contact Kalākaua Gardens

Overview of The Plaza at Punchbowl

Located in historic Honolulu near the Punchbowl Crater and National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, The Plaza at Punchbowl offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Haliʻa Memory Care, and Short-Term Respite in a peaceful, established neighborhood rich with history and natural beauty.

Our Haliʻa Memory Care program uses the nationally recognized Best Friends Approach®, providing person-centered care that honors each resident’s life story and preferences. Residents enjoy locally-inspired dining, engaging daily activities, beautifully maintained common areas including a piano lounge, and the warmth of a true ohana environment. With personalized care plans, on-site wellness support, and a dedicated team, The Plaza at Punchbowl gives families peace of mind that their loved ones are cared for with aloha, dignity, and respect for kupuna.

Contact The Plaza at Punchbowl

Overview of Ilima at Leihano

Offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care under one roof, Ilima at Leihano is a senior living community on the island of Oahu in Kapolei, Hawaii. Operating for 19 years, it sits in Kapolei’s City Center neighborhood, an area of the island often called its “Second City.” It’s a short 0.6 miles from the city center, and the nearest hospital, Pali Momi Medical Center, is about 9.46 miles away.

Residents here can access transportation for outside appointments, and the community partners with local healthcare specialists to help coordinate care. Daily support comprises housekeeping, laundry, and help with grocery shopping and errands, so occupants can rely on the team for daily life logistics. An in-house culinary team prepares meals for residents as part of the community’s dining program. For recreation and socializing, Ilima at Leihano offers a swimming pool, an arts and crafts center, a fitness center, and a movie or theater room, giving occupants an array of ways to stay active and engaged. The moderately walkable surrounding area carries a Walk Score of 67, so some errands are doable on foot, with a mix of nearby amenities within reach.

Families navigating memory care, assisted living, or independent living options in Kapolei may find it beneficial to inquire directly about which of the home’s three care types would best fit their loved one’s current needs.

Contact Ilima at Leihano

Overview of Kaluanui Senior Apartments

Kaluanui Senior Apartments is an affordable independent living community in Honolulu, HI, that offers thoughtfully designed accommodations for older adults. Here, older adults can find a home away from home, accompanied by its warm and welcoming environment. Laundry rooms and maintenance services are also provided for convenience. The community also ensures those with low incomes can downsize without hassles through income-based rents.

Social gatherings and light exercises allow residents to interact with their surroundings and have fun. With spacious living areas and cozy communal spaces, residents are guaranteed a stress-free retirement. Residents also have easy access to their necessities and leisure, with its convenient location along Hawaii Kai Drive in Honolulu. This independent living community is dedicated to helping older adults live independently in retirement, making it a good option for senior living in Hawaii.

Contact Kaluanui Senior Apartments

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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Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in Honolulu, HI

What is the average cost of independent living in Honolulu, HI?

The average monthly cost of independent living in Honolulu, HI is approximately $2,338. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.

What is the price range for independent living in Honolulu, HI?

Independent living in Honolulu, HI typically ranges from $1,048 - $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 6 independent living communities in Honolulu, HI. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in Honolulu, HI?

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 Honolulu, HI, 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 Honolulu, HI?

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.