Best Independent Living in Massachusetts

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 239 independent living communities in MA using MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in MA
Reviewed by
Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Massachusetts our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Massachusetts.
239 homes
Other senior care options in Massachusetts:

Compare Independent Living around Massachusetts

Info below is compiled from the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs, 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. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment. PC (Palliative Care): Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
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.
Licensed beds designated for special-care services (e.g. memory or other specialized units), as reported in state licensing data.
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.
Yes/No from payment or funding tags indicating low-income accessibility options in state disclosures—not a determination of personal eligibility.
Whether the community is disclosed as co-located or on the same campus as a nursing home in state records.
Traditions of Dedham
IL
AL
MC
RC
Dedham
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 91
Rank #31 / 92
No14
57
Facility 57
MA AVG 57
Rank #125 / 238
Studio / Alcove / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
24
Facility 24
MA AVG 22
Rank #34 / 67
A+YesNo
AVIVA Country Club Heights
IL
AL
MC
RC
Woburn
107
Facility 107
MA AVG 91
Rank #21 / 92
Yes24
50
Facility 50
MA AVG 57
Rank #141 / 238
Traditional (83), Special Care (24)
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 22
Rank #7 / 67
ANoNo
Atria Merrimack Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Newburyport
129
Facility 129
MA AVG 91
Rank #11 / 92
Yes23
56
Facility 56
MA AVG 57
Rank #126 / 238
Studio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 22
Rank #29 / 67
-NoYes
Concord Park Senior Living
IL
AL
HOS
MC
PC
RC
Concord (West Concord)
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 91
Rank #31 / 92
Yes18
70
Facility 70
MA AVG 57
Rank #108 / 238
Studio / Suite / 1 Bed
25
Facility 25
MA AVG 22
Rank #32 / 67
-YesNo
Atria Longmeadow Place
IL
AL
MC
Burlington
110
Facility 110
MA AVG 91
Rank #17 / 92
Yes13
53
Facility 53
MA AVG 57
Rank #133 / 238
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
28
Facility 28
MA AVG 22
Rank #21 / 67
-YesNo
The Residence at Boylston Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Chestnut Hill
99
Facility 99
MA AVG 91
Rank #27 / 92
No18
78
Facility 78
MA AVG 57
Rank #87 / 238
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 22
Rank #29 / 67
-NoYes
Mason Wright
IL
AL
MC
Springfield (Six Corners)
90
Facility 90
MA AVG 91
Rank #39 / 92
No23
82
Facility 82
MA AVG 57
Rank #69 / 238
Traditional (67), Special Care (23)
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 22
Rank #13 / 67
-YesNo
Atria Woodbriar Park
IL
AL
MC
RC
Falmouth (Teaticket)
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 91
Rank #31 / 92
Yes50
55
Facility 55
MA AVG 57
Rank #128 / 238
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 22
Rank #7 / 67
-NoNo
Atria Maplewood Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Malden
108
Facility 108
MA AVG 91
Rank #20 / 92
Yes19
81
Facility 81
MA AVG 57
Rank #72 / 238
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / Shared Suite
27
Facility 27
MA AVG 22
Rank #23 / 67
-NoNo
Atria Marland Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Andover
141
Facility 141
MA AVG 91
Rank #10 / 92
Yes38
53
Facility 53
MA AVG 57
Rank #133 / 238
Studio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 22
Rank #7 / 67
-NoNo

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each independent living community is ranked against every other MA independent living community we track that reports that metric, not just the 239 on this page. See how we rank facilities

Rows per page:
View all Nearby Homes
12...24
Overview of Traditions of Dedham

Traditions of Dedham has been running at 735 Washington St since 2002, which puts it at 24 years and counting. The community spans independent living, personal care, memory care, and respite services, all inside a three-story, 95-bed building with studio, alcove, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.

The Walk Score sits at 57, moderately walkable, and the community is only 1.4 miles from Dedham’s city center. Norwood Hospital is 3.53 miles out, close enough that it’s not an afterthought if health needs shift.

Day-to-day care covers the essentials that actually matter: help with daily activities, laundry, meals, and a system for coordinating with outside healthcare providers when a resident’s needs go beyond what’s handled in-house. Transportation and fitness and recreation programs round out the practical side. Spacious common areas give residents room to actually move around and socialize, and social events and wellness programming are built in, not an afterthought tacked onto a brochure.

Twenty-four years of operating history, four levels of care under one roof, and a location close to both downtown Dedham and a hospital: what Traditions of Dedham is is a community built for staying power, one that can likely accommodate a resident’s needs as they change over time without requiring a move somewhere new.

Contact Traditions of Dedham

Overview of Mason Wright

Discover a haven of affordable and comfortable living at Mason Wright. This remarkable residence offers seniors a diverse range of options, including assisted living, assisted memory care, and independent living. Within its walls, a harmonious blend of privacy, community, and serenity awaits. Mason Wright understands the evolving nature of memory impairment and offers a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans. Whether embracing independent living or requiring additional support, residents can select a home that suits their unique needs. Impeccably maintained apartments, adorned with fresh paint, provide a backdrop for cherished memories.
Experienced full-time nurses are readily available to provide professional medical assistance whenever needed. Residents can also indulge in expertly prepared meals that cater to individual dietary requirements, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The burden of housekeeping and laundry is lifted, allowing residents to fully embrace their desired lifestyle. The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the living spaces, encompassing beautiful common areas where individuals can socialize, relax, and forge meaningful connections. From cozy living rooms to inviting dining areas, Mason Wright cultivates an environment that feels like home.

Contact Mason Wright

Overview of Aviva Country Club Heights

Aviva Country Club Heights is a captivating destination where elegance and serenity intertwine. It presents a range of living options, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, catering to the diverse needs of its residents. Choose from thoughtfully designed one or two-bedroom floor plans that exude sophistication and charm. As residents step outside, they are greeted by meticulously landscaped grounds, a sanctuary of natural beauty. They can also engage their green thumb with the home’s gardening opportunities while knowing that their cherished pets are not only welcomed but cherished within our pet-friendly community. With its picturesque location adjacent to a scenic golf course, Aviva Country Club Heights offers an enchanting retreat that seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with timeless allure, creating an atmosphere that is both modern and enduring.

Contact AVIVA Country Club Heights

Overview of Atria Longmeadow Place

Situated in the tranquil community of Mall Road, Burlington, MA, Atria Longmeadow Place is an idyllic senior living community offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care. Well-equipped with household amenities, the community features spacious floor plans ranging from studio to one-bedroom, to two-bedroom apartments. The community focuses on its residents’ individuality and independence, providing care and assistance that best suits their unique needs and preferences.

Atria Longmeadow Place is a vibrant community that encourages its residents to remain active and engaged. The community provides Alzheimer’s and dementia support groups and opportunities for educational, social, cultural, and fitness through its exclusive Life Guidance program. Residents enjoy three chef-prepared healthy meals in the private dining room or with friends. The pet-friendly community is equipped with a courtyard, a library, a media room, a fitness center, a salon and spa, a game room, an in-campus sundries shop, a resident garden, and a peaceful sunlit patio.

Contact Atria Longmeadow Place

Overview of Atria Merrimack Place

Nestled within the scenic neighborhood of Newburyport, MA, Atria Merrimack Place is a trusted senior living community that offers excellent assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. Residents are free to idle around with the convenience of having housekeeping and maintenance services, allowing them to focus on more meaningful activities. The community’s care team are trained to be reliable during emergencies and offer an array of supportive and care services, including assistance with daily living activities.

An array of educational, social, cultural, and fitness programs are also offered to keep residents entertained and active. Delicious and nutritious meals with accommodations for special diets and nutritional needs are available to help residents maintain their health. Amenities such as a pub, a library, a fitness center, a salon and spa, a movie theater and a courtyard are also provided to make residents’ living experience more fun and exciting.

Contact Atria Merrimack Place

Overview of The Residence at Boylston Place

The Residence at Boylston Place offers assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite care in Chestnut Hill, MA. Independent living provides a private home with community services and no daily care, while assisted living adds help with dressing, bathing, and medication without requiring a resident to leave their own apartment. Memory care is provided in a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering. Respite care offers a short stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.

The community has 99 beds, with studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom layouts. A studio suits someone who wants one private space, while a two bedroom layout may work for a couple moving together or for someone who wants a companion. Having several care levels and respite care on one campus may suit a resident whose needs could grow over time, or a family needing short term support. A Walk Score of 78 means the area is very walkable, with most errands possible on foot, so a resident who no longer drives can still get out independently.

Contact The Residence at Boylston Place

Overview of Concord Park Senior Living

Concord Park Senior Living is a beacon of choice for local seniors, offering a secure, supportive, and independent lifestyle. The community, nestled in historic West Concord Village, provides independent and assisted living options alongside a state-of-the-art Compass Memory Support Neighborhood®. Notably accredited with the Purple Flag for Dementia Care™️ and Platinum accreditation from SAGECare, Concord Park prioritizes excellence in memory care and a commitment to LGBTQ older adults.

Residents enjoy personalized services, innovative programming, award-winning Brain Healthy Cooking, and upscale amenities in beautifully landscaped grounds. Concord Park excels in memory support, holding the prestigious Purple Flag for Dementia Care Accreditation™️.  Led by a dedicated Program Specialist, this program enhances residents’ self-esteem and independence through a daily calendar of immersive activities, fostering compassion and understanding among members.

Contact Concord Park Senior Living

Overview of Atria Marland Place

Atria Marland Place is a cozy senior living community settling in Stevens Street, Andover, MA providing independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Featuring homey and spacious floor plans ranging from studio to one- and two-bedroom apartments equipped with kitchenettes and individual thermostat controls, the community ensures comfort and security. Prioritizing the seniors’ freedom and uniqueness, Atria Marland Place ensures that they receive proper care and assistance that best matches their unique needs and preferences.

Atria Marland Place strives to deliver a better quality of life, encouraging them to remain energized and engaged. The community serves three chef-prepared healthy and delicious meals daily in multiple dining venues to satisfy residents’ dietary needs. With pet-friendly amenities including a pub, a library, a movie theater, a fitness center, a salon and spa, an onsite physician office space, an art studio, and a billiards room, the community ensures the entertainment and wellness of its residents.

Contact Atria Marland Place

Overview of Atria Woodbriar Park

Situated in the peaceful area of Falmouth, MA, Atria Woodbriar Park is a remarkable senior living community that specializes in assisted living and memory care. Dedicated to helping residents enjoy a comfortable retirement, the community offers residents with a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments for resting or hosting family and friends. Residents’ safety and comfort is guaranteed with a reliable care team that provides round-the-clock care and assistance.

The community elevates residents’ living experience even further by equipping them with Alexa Smart Home devices. Promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, the community offers enriching activities and nourishing, chef-prepared meals. Residents also benefit from a wide array of amenities, such as a swimming pool, a salon and spa, an onsite physician office space, a movie theater, a fitness center, pub, and relaxing outdoor spaces for a more enjoyable and convenient living experience.

Contact Atria Woodbriar Park

Overview of Atria Maplewood Place

Enjoy the best of your golden years at Atria Maplewood Place, a blissful retreat in Malden, MA, offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care. Featuring purposely built and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, the community ensures residents are comfortable and safe. A kind and highly trained team also provides exceptional care tailored to their unique needs around the clock.

Dedicated to enhancing residents’ cognition and living experiences, a jam-packed calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs is conducted. Mealtimes foster comfort and satisfy dietary needs with delicious and healthy dining options. The community is a good option for those seeking a variety of care in retirement, especially with its comprehensive options and state-of-the-art amenities.

Contact Atria Maplewood Place

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
Submit a correction
Who we are

Your Senior Care Partner, Every Step of the Way

We help families find affordable senior communities and unlock same day discounts, Medicaid, and Medicare options tailored to your needs.

Contact us Today

Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in Massachusetts

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

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

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 Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts?

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.

Independent Living in Massachusetts at a glance

Avg Walk Score: 57/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Massachusetts. 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: 91The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Massachusetts. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90