Other senior care options in Massachusetts:

Best Independent Living in Massachusetts

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 228 independent living communities in Massachusetts using Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in MA
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jun 2026
We analyzed
228 homes
Other senior care options in Massachusetts:
Avg Walk Score: 53/ 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: 94The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Massachusetts. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around Massachusetts

The Residence at Orchard Grove
IL
AL
MC
Shrewsbury
80
Facility 80
MA AVG 94
Rank #157 / 280
Yes20
24
Facility 24
MA AVG 53
Rank #386 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
27
Facility 27
MA AVG 24
Rank #82 / 180
-NoNo
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth
IL
AL
MC
Dartmouth (Smith Mills)
85
Facility 85
MA AVG 94
Rank #146 / 280
No37
21
Facility 21
MA AVG 53
Rank #412 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #37 / 180
-NoNo
Brightview Danvers
IL
AL
MC
Danvers (Danversport)
79
Facility 79
MA AVG 94
Rank #167 / 280
Yes24
48
Facility 48
MA AVG 53
Rank #269 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
18
Facility 18
MA AVG 24
Rank #130 / 180
ANoNo
The Residence at Melrose Station
IL
AL
MC
RC
Melrose (Essex Street)
90
Facility 90
MA AVG 94
Rank #126 / 280
Yes25
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 53
Rank #24 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
27
Facility 27
MA AVG 24
Rank #82 / 180
-NoNo
Brightview North Andover
IL
AL
MC
North Andover (Turnpike Street)
76
Facility 76
MA AVG 94
Rank #173 / 280
No27
4
Facility 4
MA AVG 53
Rank #489 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
13
Facility 13
MA AVG 24
Rank #140 / 180
-NoNo
Keystone Place at Buzzards Bay
IL
AL
MC
Buzzards Bay
75
Facility 75
MA AVG 94
Rank #174 / 280
Yes20
60
Facility 60
MA AVG 53
Rank #215 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
11
Facility 11
MA AVG 24
Rank #153 / 180
-NoNo
Stone Hill at Andover
IL
AL
MC
Andover
96
Facility 96
MA AVG 94
Rank #109 / 280
Yes24
69
Facility 69
MA AVG 53
Rank #177 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
7
Facility 7
MA AVG 24
Rank #175 / 180
-NoNo
Atria Woodbriar Park
IL
AL
MC
RC
Falmouth (Teaticket)
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 94
Rank #111 / 280
Yes50
55
Facility 55
MA AVG 53
Rank #233 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 24
Rank #27 / 180
-NoNo
Maplewood at Weston
IL
AL
MC
Weston
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 94
Rank #118 / 280
Yes13
17
Facility 17
MA AVG 53
Rank #435 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
12
Facility 12
MA AVG 24
Rank #143 / 180
A+NoNo
The Residence at Boylston Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Chestnut Hill
99
Facility 99
MA AVG 94
Rank #101 / 280
No18
78
Facility 78
MA AVG 53
Rank #133 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 24
Rank #93 / 180
-NoYes
NewBridge on the Charles
IL
NH
AL
MC
Dedham (Hebrew Rehabilitation Center At Newbridge)
87
Facility 87
MA AVG 94
Rank #139 / 280
No36
8
Facility 8
MA AVG 53
Rank #481 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
17
Facility 17
MA AVG 24
Rank #132 / 180
-NoNo
Thirwood Place
IL
AL
South Yarmouth
69
Facility 69
MA AVG 94
Rank #191 / 280
Yes-
12
Facility 12
MA AVG 53
Rank #456 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #37 / 180
-NoNo
Grove Manor Estates
IL
AL
MC
Braintree (Grove Street)
70
Facility 70
MA AVG 94
Rank #185 / 280
No15
54
Facility 54
MA AVG 53
Rank #238 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #37 / 180
-NoNo
The Village at Willow Crossings
IL
AL
MC
RC
Mansfield (Mansfield Center)
104
Facility 104
MA AVG 94
Rank #89 / 280
Yes18
21
Facility 21
MA AVG 53
Rank #412 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #56 / 180
CNoNo
Brookdale Cushing Park
IL
AL
MC
Framingham (Emeritus At Farm Pond)
100
Facility 100
MA AVG 94
Rank #94 / 280
Yes22
23
Facility 23
MA AVG 53
Rank #395 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
48
Facility 48
MA AVG 24
Rank #1 / 180
A+NoNo
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Overview of Borden Place

Create unforgettable moments in Borden Place, an outstanding 62+ community in Fall River, MA, offering independent living. The community is committed to improving residents’ living experiences, providing beautifully furnished and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans for their comfort. 24-hour emergency maintenance and a variety of apartment features are also provided, so residents have a worry-free lifestyle.

A jam-packed calendar of enriching activities and exciting events is conducted, encouraging residents to gain meaningful experiences and live actively. With a fully equipped kitchen, residents can prepare meals on their own terms and enjoy delightful dining options. Pets are also allowed to accompany residents, as long as they follow community guidelines. The community is a great option for those aiming to downsize in retirement, especially with its state-of-the-art amenities and friendly setting.

Contact Borden Place

Manomet Place

170 Riverside Ave, New Bedford, MA 02746
Overview of Manomet Place

Ideally situated in the harmonious neighborhood of New Bedford, MA, Manomet Place is a blissful haven that offers independent living. Committed to improving the quality of life of those 55+, the community has beautifully designed and spacious accommodations. 24-hour emergency maintenance and management are also provided, so residents have a hassle-free lifestyle.

Residents can interact with their surroundings amidst the community’s cozy gathering spaces. Pets are also welcome to accompany residents to ease their loneliness. Dining, shopping, and recreational sites are also easily accessible, ensuring residents can spend their days as they please. The community is a great option for those seeking comfort in their golden years, especially with its warm and inviting environment.

Contact Manomet Place

Overview of Whaler’s Place

Whaler’s Place is a welcoming community set in the idyllic neighborhood of New Bedford, MA, offering independent living. Those 55+ can rest assured of finding the accommodation that best matches their preferences with thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom floor plans. With plenty of convenient apartment features and maintenance services, residents can keep their peace of mind and live without hassles.

Thriving local shops and recreational spaces are easily accessible, providing unending leisure and wellness opportunities. Residents also enjoy a variety of dining options that cater to their dietary needs, with a restaurant in the area and a fully equipped kitchen in each unit. The community strives to help residents live beyond their potential in their golden years.

Contact Whaler’s Place

Overview of Millers River Apartments

Ideally situated in the harmonious neighborhood of Cambridge, MA, Millers River Apartments is an inviting community that offers independent living. With a variety of beautifully furnished and cozy accommodations, residents can rest assured of finding the best one that best matches their preferences. The community also provides laundry spaces and maintenance services for residents’ convenience.

Here, residents can interact with their surroundings and gain meaningful experiences in its gathering spaces. Delightful restaurants and shops in the area provide residents with a variety of dining options that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. With its top-notch amenities and exceptional services, residents can keep their peace of mind and flourish in retirement.

Contact Millers River Apartments

Overview of Serenity Towers at Brockton

Age gracefully at Serenity Towers at Brockton, a distinct 55+ community in Brockton, MA, offering independent living. Committed to improving the quality of life of those 55+, the community has beautifully furnished and cozy studio to two-bedroom floor plans. On-site maintenance and management are also provided, so residents have more time to do the things they love.

Fun gathering spaces and plenty of wellness opportunities are available, encouraging residents to live an active and vibrant lifestyle. Residents also have easy access to a variety of dining options with delightful restaurants and shops nearby. Amenities include a library, a sun deck, and a spacious garage, creating the ideal setting for residents to thrive in retirement.

Contact Serenity Towers at Brockton

Overview of Market Mill Apartments

Surrounded by thriving local amenities in Lowell, MA, Market Mill Apartments is an idyllic haven that offers independent living. Featuring specially designed and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, the community ensures residents are comfortable and safe. Laundry spaces and 24-hour maintenance are also provided, so residents have more time to do the things they love.

Here, residents can live actively and make new friends with thoughtfully curated activities and engaging programs that highlight their interests and capabilities. Residents can prepare meals that best suit their tastes and dietary needs with a variety of kitchen features. Recreation sites, healthcare providers, and transportation are also easily accessible, providing leisure and wellness opportunities. The community’s warm and inviting environment makes it an enticing option for those seeking comfort in their golden years.

Contact Market Mill Apartments

Overview of Carleton-Willard Village

Experience the finest things in retirement living with Carleton-Willard Village, a non-profit community in Bedford, MA, dedicated to offering skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and assisted living. Residents enjoy utmost comfort and safety in their well-appointed accommodations with easy access to cozy common areas and amenities like their hair salon, auditorium, and the Victoria Café. Dedicated to helping residents live their best lives without worries, the community provides them with comprehensive care services, including daily living assistance, therapy services, and more.

Those living with memory conditions will thrive in a safe and secure environment with access to a multi-level activity program designed to give them enriching experiences that nurture their overall well-being. Dining is a cozy and satisfying experience in the community with its flexible dining options and well-prepared meals that suit residents’ individual dietary needs and preferences.

Contact Carleton-Willard Village

Overview of The Arbors at Taunton Assisted Living and Memory Care

Live the lifestyle of your dreams with the distinguished senior living community of The Arbors at Taunton set in the serene residential area of County Street, Taunton, MA, provides assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite. With its commitment to delivering top-notch care and assistance, residents enjoy their best years without worries. The Arbors at Taunton helps seniors around the clock to ensure their needs and aspirations are well-cared for.

Fostering a lively and friendly environment, the community provides avenues for residents to immerse in their surroundings and stay engaged. Delectable and healthy meals are served to meet dietary needs and preferences. With its incredible amenities and lovely community, The Arbors at Taunton is a good place for seniors to start their healing journey with ease.

Contact The Arbors at Taunton Assisted Living and Memory Care

Overview of Southwick Village

Situated in the quiet neighborhood of Southwick, MA, Southwick Village is an outstanding senior living community that offers a serene environment for 55+ active adult living, independent living, and enhanced living. Carefully designed accommodations are provided to keep residents safe and relaxed as they enjoy the retirement life they’ve always envisioned. Convenient services like housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation are also offered, allowing residents to devote most of their precious time to the things that make them happy.

Various community activities are regularly held to encourage residents to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Mealtimes are enjoyable and to look forward to with carefully prepared culinary delights that are made to be both healthy and tasty with consideration for special dietary needs and preferences. The community also offers access to a wide range of amenities, including an arts and crafts area, computer room, recreation areas, and beautiful outdoor space for gathering with friends or relaxing time outdoors.

Contact Southwick Village

Overview of The Berkeley Retirement Home and Nursing Center

Make your retirement dreams come alive at The Berkeley, a compassionate senior living community in Lawrence, MA, offering independent living and skilled nursing. Residents enjoy the privacy of their own studio apartment with a full private bathroom and access to personalized dining room meal service for three meals a day. Round-the-clock nursing care is provided by Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNAs), offering residents peace of mind.

The community provides a welcoming environment where residents can discover new hobbies, meet new friends and maintain their independence with the help of convenient services and plentiful amenities. Residents live a convenient lifestyle with light housekeeping, laundry services and full pharmacy services. The activities team provides residents with a wide range of things to do including daily exercise, crafts, parties, entertainment, and daily religious services in our onsite chapel. At The Berkeley, residents enjoy a community that provides them plenty of opportunities to live a fulfilling life.

Contact The Berkeley Retirement Home and Nursing Center

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
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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 228 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.