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
Yes 20
24
Facility 24
MA AVG 53
Rank #386 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
27
Facility 27
MA AVG 24
Rank #82 / 180
- No No
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth
IL
AL
MC
Dartmouth (Smith Mills)
85
Facility 85
MA AVG 94
Rank #146 / 280
No 37
21
Facility 21
MA AVG 53
Rank #412 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #37 / 180
- No No
Brightview Danvers
IL
AL
MC
Danvers (Danversport)
79
Facility 79
MA AVG 94
Rank #167 / 280
Yes 24
48
Facility 48
MA AVG 53
Rank #269 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
18
Facility 18
MA AVG 24
Rank #130 / 180
A No No
The Residence at Melrose Station
IL
AL
MC
RC
Melrose (Essex Street)
90
Facility 90
MA AVG 94
Rank #126 / 280
Yes 25
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 53
Rank #24 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
27
Facility 27
MA AVG 24
Rank #82 / 180
- No No
Brightview North Andover
IL
AL
MC
North Andover (Turnpike Street)
76
Facility 76
MA AVG 94
Rank #173 / 280
No 27
4
Facility 4
MA AVG 53
Rank #489 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
13
Facility 13
MA AVG 24
Rank #140 / 180
- No No
Keystone Place at Buzzards Bay
IL
AL
MC
Buzzards Bay
75
Facility 75
MA AVG 94
Rank #174 / 280
Yes 20
60
Facility 60
MA AVG 53
Rank #215 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
11
Facility 11
MA AVG 24
Rank #153 / 180
- No No
Stone Hill at Andover
IL
AL
MC
Andover
96
Facility 96
MA AVG 94
Rank #109 / 280
Yes 24
69
Facility 69
MA AVG 53
Rank #177 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
7
Facility 7
MA AVG 24
Rank #175 / 180
- No No
Atria Woodbriar Park
IL
AL
MC
RC
Falmouth (Teaticket)
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 94
Rank #111 / 280
Yes 50
55
Facility 55
MA AVG 53
Rank #233 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
30
Facility 30
MA AVG 24
Rank #27 / 180
- No No
Maplewood at Weston
IL
AL
MC
Weston
93
Facility 93
MA AVG 94
Rank #118 / 280
Yes 13
17
Facility 17
MA AVG 53
Rank #435 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
12
Facility 12
MA AVG 24
Rank #143 / 180
A+ No No
The Residence at Boylston Place
IL
AL
MC
RC
Chestnut Hill
99
Facility 99
MA AVG 94
Rank #101 / 280
No 18
78
Facility 78
MA AVG 53
Rank #133 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
26
Facility 26
MA AVG 24
Rank #93 / 180
- No Yes
NewBridge on the Charles
IL
NH
AL
MC
Dedham (Hebrew Rehabilitation Center At Newbridge)
87
Facility 87
MA AVG 94
Rank #139 / 280
No 36
8
Facility 8
MA AVG 53
Rank #481 / 499
1 Bed / 2 Bed
17
Facility 17
MA AVG 24
Rank #132 / 180
- No No
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
- No No
Grove Manor Estates
IL
AL
MC
Braintree (Grove Street)
70
Facility 70
MA AVG 94
Rank #185 / 280
No 15
54
Facility 54
MA AVG 53
Rank #238 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #37 / 180
- No No
The Village at Willow Crossings
IL
AL
MC
RC
Mansfield (Mansfield Center)
104
Facility 104
MA AVG 94
Rank #89 / 280
Yes 18
21
Facility 21
MA AVG 53
Rank #412 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
29
Facility 29
MA AVG 24
Rank #56 / 180
C No No
Brookdale Cushing Park
IL
AL
MC
Framingham (Emeritus At Farm Pond)
100
Facility 100
MA AVG 94
Rank #94 / 280
Yes 22
23
Facility 23
MA AVG 53
Rank #395 / 499
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
48
Facility 48
MA AVG 24
Rank #1 / 180
A+ No No
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Overview of Brown Family House

Create meaningful moments at Brown Family House, an outstanding community in Brookline, MA, offering independent living. The community is committed to improving the quality of life of those 62+, providing thoughtfully furnished and spacious accommodations for their comfort. Residents can ease their worries with maintenance services and compassionate management.

Fun events and enriching programs are conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and maintain social connections. With a fully furnished kitchen in each unit, residents can prepare meals that best suit their dietary needs and tastes. Residents can also bring small pets to accompany them and ease their loneliness. Promoting a vibrant and friendly environment, the community ensures residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle in their golden years.

Contact Brown Family House

Overview of Rogers Hall

Peacefully set near Rogers Fort Hill Park in Lowell, MA, Rogers Hall is an outstanding 62+ community that offers independent living. Purposely built one-bedroom floor plans are provided in a vibrant and welcoming environment, so residents can feel a sense of belonging during their stay. Income qualifications and rent restrictions may apply, ensuring older adults can downsize according to their preferences and budgets.

With fun recreational activities and exciting events, residents are encouraged to live actively and make new friends. Shopping, dining, healthcare providers, and public transportation are easily accessible, providing endless leisure and wellness opportunities. Pets are also welcome to accompany residents to ease their loneliness. With its state-of-the-art amenities and friendly setting, residents are guaranteed to thrive in retirement.

Contact Rogers Hall

Overview of The Arbors at Chicopee Assisted Living and Memory Care

Experience senior living at its finest with The Arbors at Chicopee Assisted Living and Memory Care, located in the beautiful Chicopee, MA. This community offers assisted living, independent living, memory care, and trial stays/respite. Residents can select from cozy, well-appointed private apartments and benefit from round-the-clock in-house medical care provided by a competent and dedicated team.

The Arbors at Chicopee goes above and beyond with a variety of exceptional services and amenities. Residents enjoy a constantly evolving resident council, daily programs, fitness gatherings, a community living room with a fireplace, and outdoor courtyards and patios. Additional amenities include a beauty salon/barber and more. Engage in a wide array of daily activities such as bowling, movie nights, shopping outings, bus trips, spa days, and live music. With a full calendar of social events and life enrichment programs, The Arbors at Chicopee ensures that seniors experience a vibrant and fulfilling retirement.

Contact The Arbors at Chicopee Assisted Living and Memory Care

Overview of The Pryde by Lgbtq Senior Housing INC.

Redefining senior living, The Pryde is the first LGBTQ-affirming senior living community in Hyde Park, MA, offering inclusive independent living. The community features spacious, thoughtfully designed apartments, on-site fitness amenities and wellness programs inspired by the Fitwel Standard. Here, residents also enjoy access to Pryde’s public community center that offers various activities, resources, and events aimed at fostering connections and promoting well-being among the greater community.

At The Pryde, they aim to provide fabulous programming and services that will engage and support residents in celebrating their authentic, multifaceted lives. The community features a large auditorium which serves as a gathering space for music, theater and resident functions, as well as a fully-equipped fitness center, and a sunroom. Residents also have access to an outdoor fitness area, with a walking track, raised garden beds, benches and a pergola. Here, residents are guaranteed a safe living environment where they can be their authentic selves.

Contact The Pryde by LGBTQ Senior Housing Inc.

Overview of Allerton House Hingham

Situated in the picturesque coastal town of Hingham, Massachusetts, Allerton House stands as a premier senior living community dedicated to offering a comfortable and supportive lifestyle for older adults. Whether embracing independent living, assisted living, or memory care, residents find delight in spacious apartments, delectable dining options, engaging activities, and personalized care. With a commitment to meeting diverse needs, Allerton House provides an array of services and amenities in a scenic and inviting setting.

As a cherished member of the Welch Senior Living family, boasting a legacy of over 70 years in senior care, Allerton House encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of a true home. Senior residents experience a vibrant community that aligns with their preferences and benefit from the security and peace of mind of a professionally managed environment. It’s a place where the rich tapestry of coastal living meets the attentive care seniors deserve.

Contact Allerton House Hingham

Overview of Village at Proprietors Green

Situated in the heart of Marshfield, Massachusetts, the Village at Proprietors Green is a distinguished senior living community, offering a comprehensive continuum of care. Whether residents seek the independence of their own living space, personalized assistance, or specialized memory care, the Village at Proprietors Green caters to their diverse needs. It’s a place where every aspect of care is thoughtfully crafted to enhance the well-being of residents, ensuring they thrive in a welcoming and nurturing environment.

This community is a haven where seniors relish a lifestyle of comfort, safety, and socialization, creating cherished moments with peers and family. Residents enjoy the luxury of spacious apartments, chef-prepared meals, and a vibrant array of engaging activities. The community boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a wellness and fitness center, a library, a theater, a putting green, and a serene courtyard. As a valued member of the Welch Healthcare and Retirement Group, with a legacy spanning over 70 years, the Village at Proprietors Green has been a trusted resource in senior living.

Contact Village at Proprietors Green

Overview of Benchmark Senior Living

Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossings boasts a visually stunning open-concept design, with modern aesthetics that immediately catch the eye. This remarkable assisted living and memory care facility is ideally located within a short drive from Worcester, boasting picturesque surroundings, thanks to beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor patios that imbue the space with a calming, peaceful ambiance.

Their residents can take part in an eclectic mix of local events and relish in chef-prepared seasonal menus and diverse dining options catering to their individual dietary needs. With a resident art gallery, hair salon, and pet-friendly environment, there’s always something to do and see. On top of that, residents enjoy the convenience of housekeeping and laundry services, transportation, and grounds keeping.

Contact Benchmark Senior Living

Overview of The Briarwood Community

The Briarwood Community is a haven of security and vibrancy where seniors can enjoy a range of living options, including independent living, traditional assisted living, and memory care assisted living. Nestled in the peaceful woods area, this community fosters lifelong connections as residents come together to form a close-knit and supportive community. There are a variety of living options available at The Briarwood Community, including independent cottages, independent apartments, and assisted apartments.

One of the standout features of The Briarwood Community is its state-of-the-art wellness center, which boasts an updated pool and sauna, as well as a range of fitness classes to keep residents active and healthy. The dining experience is also top-notch, with quality meals served in a comfortable setting promoting social interaction. Finally, The Briarwood Community is all about fun and excitement, with activities tailored to different lifestyles. Whether residents prefer socializing with others, stay active, or pursue hobbies and interests, there is always something to do and new stories to cherish.

Contact The Briarwood Community

Walnut Knoll

55 Walnut St, Foxborough, MA 02035
Overview of Walnut Knoll

Coming Fall 2025, Walnut Knoll offers an active 55+ community in the heart of Foxborough, Massachusetts. This optimally planned community consists of 141 one-bedroom apartments in two buildings, providing seniors with affordable, no-maintenance living. All apartments feature modern amenities such as fully applianced kitchens, quartz countertops, spacious closets, and walk-in showers, with utilities included to create a hassle-free lifestyle. The prime location of the neighborhood provides easy access to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment at Patriot Place, as well as outdoor activities at Gilbert Hills State Forest and Gillette Stadium.

In addition to spacious apartments, Walnut Knoll fosters community through several resort-like amenities. Residents can enjoy a fitness center, pickleball court, putting green, community garden, and outdoor lounge areas with fire pits and grilling stations. The pet-friendly, smoke-free community also includes a dog park, electric vehicle charging stations, and resident events that promote well-being and socialization. Offering on-site professional management and 24-hour emergency maintenance, Walnut Knoll allows seniors the chance to live their best lives in a supportive, engaging environment.

Contact Walnut Knoll

Overview of Magnolia Heights Gracious Retirement Living

Settled in the vibrant city of Franklin, MA, Magnolia Heights is a thriving senior living community, offering independent living. The community provides inviting accommodations, ranging from studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments with vaulted ceilings and large windows for scenic views and 24-hour emergency pull cords and fire protection systems & sprinklers for safety. Residents are provided access to basic assistance services with the community’s partnership with a trusted homecare provider.

At Magnolia Heights, residents enjoy a vibrant calendar of activities, outings, and events that encourages them to stay engaged, active, and socialize. Residents also enjoy carefully crafted menus featuring fresh ingredients and a 24/7 bar for coffee, snacks, and fruits. Amenities include a theater, library, billiards and card rooms, TV room, fitness center, laundry room, a chapel, walking paths, and gardening spaces. With planned social activities, a wide array of amenities, and a compassionate care team, the community guarantees residents a thrilling retirement experience.

Contact Magnolia Heights Gracious Retirement 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
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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.