Other senior care options in Massachusetts:

Page 2 of Best Independent Living in Massachusetts

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 232 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
Jul 2026
We analyzed
232 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

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 to lowest based on our ranking methodology.

The Commons in Lincoln
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Lincoln
32
Facility 32
MA AVG 94
Rank #268 / 276
Yes-
5
Facility 5
MA AVG 53
Rank #485 / 498
1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 22
Rank #27 / 181
C-No-
Hebrew SeniorLife
IL
AL
HC
HOS
MC
NH
PC
SNF
Boston (Roslindale)
50
Facility 50
MA AVG 94
Rank #232 / 276
Yes-
38
Facility 38
MA AVG 53
Rank #324 / 498
---No-
Carleton-Willard Village
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Bedford
179
Facility 179
MA AVG 94
Rank #12 / 276
No-
6
Facility 6
MA AVG 53
Rank #484 / 498
1 Bed / 2 Bed Apartments-A+No-
AVIVA Country Club Heights
IL
AL
MC
RC
Woburn (Rehabilitation Way)
107
Facility 107
MA AVG 94
Rank #86 / 276
Yes24
50
Facility 50
MA AVG 53
Rank #259 / 498
Traditional (83), Special Care (24)
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 22
Rank #15 / 181
ANoNo
Mason Wright
IL
AL
MC
Springfield (Six Corners)
90
Facility 90
MA AVG 94
Rank #125 / 276
No23
82
Facility 82
MA AVG 53
Rank #108 / 498
Traditional (67), Special Care (23)
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 22
Rank #27 / 181
-YesNo
Francis Cabot Lowell Mill
IL
Waltham (Bleachery)
258
Facility 258
MA AVG 94
Rank #3 / 276
No-
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 53
Rank #24 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed--No-
Harry S. Truman Apartments
IL
Cambridge (East Cambridge)
-No-
97
Facility 97
MA AVG 53
Rank #6 / 498
1 Bed--No-
Brown Family House
IL
Brookline (North Brookline)
-Yes-
97
Facility 97
MA AVG 53
Rank #6 / 498
1 Bed / 2 Bed--No-
Millers River Apartments
IL
Cambridge (East Cambridge)
-No-
97
Facility 97
MA AVG 53
Rank #6 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed--No-
The Current Beverly
IL
AL
MC
RC
Beverly (Beverly Center Business District)
98
Facility 98
MA AVG 94
Rank #103 / 276
Yes15
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 53
Rank #24 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed--NoNo
Cadbury Commons
IL
AL
MC
Cambridge (Neighborhood Nine)
74
Facility 74
MA AVG 94
Rank #176 / 276
Yes24
86
Facility 86
MA AVG 53
Rank #81 / 498
Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 22
Rank #27 / 181
-NoNo
The Residence at Boylston Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Chestnut Hill
99
Facility 99
MA AVG 94
Rank #101 / 276
No18
78
Facility 78
MA AVG 53
Rank #133 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 22
Rank #78 / 181
-NoYes
Brookdale Cushing Park
IL
AL
MC
Framingham (Emeritus At Farm Pond)
100
Facility 100
MA AVG 94
Rank #94 / 276
Yes22
23
Facility 23
MA AVG 53
Rank #395 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 22
Rank #78 / 181
A+NoNo
Atria Merrimack Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Newburyport (Storey Avenue)
129
Facility 129
MA AVG 94
Rank #48 / 276
Yes23
56
Facility 56
MA AVG 53
Rank #228 / 498
Studio / Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 22
Rank #78 / 181
-NoYes
The Heritage Apartments
IL
Malden (Malden Gaming District)
-Yes-
98
Facility 98
MA AVG 53
Rank #2 / 498
Studio / 1 Bed--No-
Rows per page:
View all Nearby Homes
Overview of Cadbury Commons

Cadbury Commons has proudly remained a family-owned and operated haven for over 27 years in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Their commitment to fostering both assisted independence and senior living is unwavering, offering a comprehensive range of services that include memory care. With an environment tailored to the needs of seniors, this residence thrives on vibrant activity, offering a diverse array of avenues for engaging new experiences, whether in the realms of business, education, travel, or the arts.

From a well-stocked library to a rejuvenating fitness center and a dedicated computer area, the community provides spaces for both personal growth and social interaction. The serene atmosphere is complemented by the convenience of an on-site salon and spa, ready to pamper and rejuvenate. Embracing pets and offering access to private off-street parking, Cadbury Commons creates an environment that feels like home, complete with memory care support groups that provide invaluable connections. Additionally, a variety of independent living floor plans cater to individual preferences, while the assisted living facilities ensure a seamless transition to a supportive and enriching lifestyle

Contact Cadbury Commons

Overview of The Residence at Boylston Place

The Residence at Boylston Place has been open at 615 Heath Street in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts since 2000. Twenty-six years in the same building, offering assisted living, independent living, and respite care across 99 beds. The building is mid-rise, with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.

Walkability stands out at The Residence at Boylston Place and its surrounding neighborhood. The Walk Score hits 78, very walkable, so a lot of daily errands don’t need a car at all. That’s not typical for a community this size, and its a gret boon for more mobility challenged seniors, as well as any visiting family.

There’s also a nursing home co-located on the same campus, which matters more than it might sound. It means a resident who eventually needs a higher level of care doesn’t have to leave the area they already know to get it.

Between assisted living and independent living, residents have room to shift support levels without relocating, and respite care covers families who need a short-term stay rather than a permanent one.

What this adds up to is a well-established, walkable Chestnut Hill community built for flexibility, offering more than one level of senior living in the same place, with a nursing home nearby for whatever comes next.

Contact The Residence at Boylston Place

Overview of Brookdale Cushing Park

Nestled on over 100 acres in Framingham, Massachusetts, Brookdale Cushing Park offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services to seniors seeking a high-quality lifestyle. With three levels of care on a single campus, residents can easily transition as their needs change, paying only for the services they require. The community provides a customized service plan, with basic utilities and maintenance typically included in the monthly rate. Brookdale Cushing Park’s compassionate care team assists residents with daily activities, while independent living residents enjoy maintenance-free living with access to restaurant-style dining, social activities, and wellness amenities.

Assisted living offers personalized care in a warm, welcoming environment, with programs to keep residents engaged and connected. Memory care features specially designed spaces and trained associates to guide residents living with Alzheimer’s or dementia through a daily path of meaningful engagement. Whether tending to a garden, participating in fitness classes, or enjoying a decadent meal with friends, Brookdale Cushing Park empowers residents to live life to the fullest.

Contact Brookdale Cushing Park

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 Heritage Apartments

Make the most of your best years at The Heritage Apartments, a purposely built 62+ community that offers independent living. Designed for residents’ comfort and safety, the community has beautifully furnished and spacious studio and one-bedroom floor plans. Income qualifications and rent restrictions are utilized to ease financial challenges.

With major highways and public transportation nearby, residents have convenient travel access that allows them to enjoy local amenities and recreation sites. Pets are also welcome to accompany residents, as long as they follow community guidelines. Residents are guaranteed the finest retirement experience amidst the community’s warm and welcoming setting.

Contact The Heritage Apartments

Overview of Rolfe House

Enjoy the retirement of your dreams at Rolfe House, a distinct community in Lynn, MA, offering independent living. Beautifully furnished and cozy one- and two-bedroom floor plans are provided in a warm and friendly environment, ensuring residents can feel at ease during their stay. Emergency pull-cord systems, maintenance services, and management are also available, so residents have more time to do the things they love.

Residents have easy access to thriving local shops and recreational spaces, ensuring residents will not run out of things to do for leisure and wellness. Fully-equipped kitchens are also available, so residents can prepare meals based on their dietary needs and preferences. With its bright and friendly environment, residents make the most of their best years without worries.

Contact Rolfe House

Overview of Hamilton Wade Apartments

Experience a vibrant lifestyle at Hamilton Wade Apartments, an idyllic retreat in Brockton, MA, offering independent living. Residents’ comfort and safety are prioritized, providing beautifully designed and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans. With maintenance services and safety features in each unit, residents have a hassle-free living.

Residents will not run out of things to do for leisure and wellness with a thoughtfully planned calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs. A fully equipped kitchen is also available, allowing residents to prepare meals according to their dietary needs and preferences. The community’s vibrant and friendly setting makes it an attractive option for those seeking independence in retirement.

Contact Hamilton Wade Apartments

Overview of The Residence at Melrose Station

The Residence at Melrose Station undoubtedly provides the highest quality of care for independent living, assisted living, and memory care residents. Management makes it a point that seniors are given the freedom and choice given to each resident, and ensures that they attend to the unique needs of each individual with kindness and compassion. The upscale senior living community prides itself on being a renowned home in Boston that is enriched by diversity, elevated by accommodations, and enhanced by lifestyle.

The lifestyle at The Residences is an easy and worry-free community; through the community’s extensive services, residents are able to live a fulfilling everyday life. Some of the all-inclusive features include ALDs, medication management, transfer assistance, housekeeping and laundry services– all of which are tailored to their unique needs.

Contact The Residence at Melrose Station

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 NewBridge on the Charles

Experience premier accommodations at a luxurious retirement community just a few minutes away from Harvard. NewBridge is committed to creating a lifestyle that suits each individual’s needs. Offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care support, the resort-style retirement home strives to ensure that its residents enjoy the lifestyle they deserve.

As a proud member of the Hebrew Senior Living Community, NewBridge on the Charles has designed every corner of the campus to meet the needs of its residents. Seniors will experience exclusive amenities and services, such as specialized medical support, individualized memory care activities, calendar-filled programs; exclusive Noshi Deli dining, The Shapiro Community Center, and programs through its affiliation with Harvard medical school.

Contact NewBridge on the Charles

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 232 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.