Other senior care options in North Carolina:

Best Independent Living in North Carolina

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 146 independent living communities in North Carolina using NC Dept. of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in NC
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jun 2026
We analyzed
146 homes
Other senior care options in North Carolina:
Avg Walk Score: 33/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in North Carolina. 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: 72The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in North Carolina. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around North Carolina

The Arboretum at Woodland Terrace
IL
AL
MC
Cary (Woodland Terrace)
84
Facility 84
NC AVG 72
Rank #138 / 390
Yes
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 33
Rank #110 / 572
39.3%
Facility 39.3%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #211 / 246
-
95.75/200
Facility 95.75/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #210 / 322
19
84.2%
Facility 84.2%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #239 / 335
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Woodland Terrace
IL
AL
MC
Cary (Woodland Terrace)
84
Facility 84
NC AVG 72
Rank #138 / 390
No
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 33
Rank #110 / 572
--
95.75/200
Facility 95.75/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #210 / 322
19
84.2%
Facility 84.2%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #239 / 335
-
Harmony at Greensboro
IL
AL
Greensboro (British Woods)
92
Facility 92
NC AVG 72
Rank #116 / 390
No
37
Facility 37
NC AVG 33
Rank #244 / 572
43.5%
Facility 43.5%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #201 / 246
A+
101.50/200
Facility 101.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #103 / 322
17
100%
Facility 100%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #326 / 335
-
Parkwood Village and The Landing
IL
NH
AL
MC
RC
Wilson (Westwood)
70
Facility 70
NC AVG 72
Rank #186 / 390
Yes
42
Facility 42
NC AVG 33
Rank #210 / 572
51.5%
Facility 51.5%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #194 / 246
-
101.50/200
Facility 101.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #103 / 322
27
85.2%
Facility 85.2%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #255 / 335
1 Bed / 2 Bed
Brookdale Carriage Club Providence
IL
AL
MC
NH
Charlotte (Olde Providence North)
77
Facility 77
NC AVG 72
Rank #168 / 390
Yes
12
Facility 12
NC AVG 33
Rank #440 / 572
71.5%
Facility 71.5%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #135 / 246
A+
98.75/200
Facility 98.75/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #167 / 322
15
80%
Facility 80%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #169 / 335
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Walnut Ridge
IL
AL
MC
NH
Walnut Cove (Windmill Street)
63
Facility 63
NC AVG 72
Rank #224 / 390
No
50
Facility 50
NC AVG 33
Rank #149 / 572
100.0%
Facility 100.0%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #1 / 246
A+
103.50/200
Facility 103.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #31 / 322
19
47.4%
Facility 47.4%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #31 / 335
Studio / Suite
Truewood by Merrill, New Bern
IL
AL
MC
New Bern
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 72
Rank #286 / 390
Yes
31
Facility 31
NC AVG 33
Rank #294 / 572
100.0%
Facility 100.0%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #1 / 246
A+
99.50/200
Facility 99.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #145 / 322
20
85%
Facility 85%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #250 / 335
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Parkview Retirement Center, Inc.
IL
AL
Sanford (Brookwood)
116
Facility 116
NC AVG 72
Rank #53 / 390
No
18
Facility 18
NC AVG 33
Rank #394 / 572
58.6%
Facility 58.6%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #178 / 246
A+
95.50/200
Facility 95.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #212 / 322
16
62.5%
Facility 62.5%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #54 / 335
1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 Bed / Private / Semi-Private Rooms
Carmel Hills
IL
AL
HC
Charlotte (Montibello)
38
Facility 38
NC AVG 72
Rank #319 / 390
No
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 33
Rank #484 / 572
--
104.50/200
Facility 104.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #20 / 322
20
80%
Facility 80%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #169 / 335
1 Bed / 2 Bed
Brookdale Charlotte East
IL
AL
Charlotte (Eastland - Wilora Lake)
50
Facility 50
NC AVG 72
Rank #295 / 390
Yes
24
Facility 24
NC AVG 33
Rank #349 / 572
-A+
104.50/200
Facility 104.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #20 / 322
19
73.7%
Facility 73.7%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #115 / 335
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
The Cypress of Charlotte
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
Charlotte (Beverly Woods)
65
Facility 65
NC AVG 72
Rank #210 / 390
No
15
Facility 15
NC AVG 33
Rank #414 / 572
78.2%
Facility 78.2%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #112 / 246
---4
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 335
1 Bed / 2 Bed
Givens Highland Farms
IL
HC
NC
NH
RC
Black Mountain
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 72
Rank #233 / 390
No
12
Facility 12
NC AVG 33
Rank #440 / 572
82.2%
Facility 82.2%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #84 / 246
-----Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 Bed
Wesley Pines
IL
AL
MC
NH
Lumberton
62
Facility 62
NC AVG 72
Rank #225 / 390
No
9
Facility 9
NC AVG 33
Rank #462 / 572
86.1%
Facility 86.1%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #66 / 246
A+----1 Bed / Cottage / Villa
Carol Woods
IL
AL
NC
NH
Chapel Hill (Carol Woods)
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 72
Rank #329 / 390
No
13
Facility 13
NC AVG 33
Rank #432 / 572
76.7%
Facility 76.7%
NC AVG 69.9%
Rank #116 / 246
---3
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 335
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Brookdale Robinwood
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
Gastonia
89
Facility 89
NC AVG 72
Rank #125 / 390
Yes
4
Facility 4
NC AVG 33
Rank #506 / 572
-A+
91.50/200
Facility 91.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #253 / 322
17
76.5%
Facility 76.5%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #137 / 335
Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms
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Ambriant

980 Chestnut Ln, Matthews, NC 28104
Overview of Ambriant

Live the retirement of your dreams at Ambriant, an idyllic retreat in Indian Land, SC, offering independent living. Dedicated to the comfort of those 55+, the community features beautifully furnished and cozy studio to two-bedroom floor plans. Here, residents maintain their independence without hassles, as housekeeping and maintenance services are taken care of.\

Promoting an active and vibrant lifestyle, a carefully curated calendar of engaging activities and exciting trips is conducted. Mealtimes are also something to look forward to, with delicious, healthy, and freshly made dining options that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. Amenities include a cafe, a sunroom, a fitness center, a yoga studio, a multipurpose room, a salon, a spa, and raised garden beds. The community has two distinct locations in North and South Carolina, ensuring older adults can find the best place to spend their golden years.

Contact Ambriant

Overview of Brookdale Hendersonville East

Nestled in the renowned city of Hendersonville, NC, Brookdale Hendersonville East offers a warm and welcoming environment where residents can trade household chores for a vibrant lifestyle rich in activity and friendship. The community provides independent living, ensuring residents enjoy all the comforts of home with the conveniences of community life. With spacious common areas, private accommodations, personalized care plans, and a lively events calendar, it’s a place where leisurely mornings start with coffee and a sunrise. Basic utilities and maintenance are typically included, reducing the burden of bills.

Brookdale Hendersonville East is perfect for those looking to upgrade their retirement experience. Residents have convenient access to downtown Hendersonville and Asheville’s cultural events and fine dining. Local shops and boutiques are just a short drive away, and excursions to Chimney Rock Park, Lake Lure, and Biltmore Estates are popular activities. On-site amenities include a fitness center, library, billiards, and a theater, creating a resort-like atmosphere that offers all the comforts and convenience of a home without the work or extra expenses.

Contact Brookdale Hendersonville East

Overview of Holiday Cedar Ridge

Located just outside Burlington, North Carolina, Holiday Cedar Ridge is a pet-friendly independent living community providing residents with a supportive environment that honors their independence and dignity. Residents can feel confident knowing assistance is always available because their trained and compassionate team is on call for emergency response around the clock.

Residents of Holiday Cedar Ridge enjoy a lively lifestyle amidst gorgeous gardens and abundant greenery. The community provides regular housekeeping, transportation, and delectable restaurant-style eating. Along with daily entertainment options like fitness classes and quiz nights, residents may take advantage of on-site facilities like a library and beauty salon. Each unit has a kitchenette, wheelchair accessibility, and individually controlled heating and air conditioning, ensuring comfort and convenience for all residents.

Contact Holiday Cedar Ridge

Overview of Stoneridge Gracious Retirement Living

Stoneridge Gracious Retirement Living provides a retirement lifestyle filled with vibrancy, community, and independence. The community’s mission is to provide a dynamic independent living environment where residents can enjoy their golden years surrounded by amenities, services, and a supportive live-in management team. Values of safety, well-being, and personalized care guide the community’s commitment to meeting residents’ needs, ensuring peace of mind through a safety call system and third-party health care options.

The community boasts a range of amenities and services that make Stoneridge Gracious Retirement Living a standout choice for retirees. With on-site managers fostering a sense of community, residents experience a warm and engaging atmosphere. From chef-prepared meals and weekly housekeeping to transportation services and exciting activities, every aspect is designed to contribute to a fulfilling and enjoyable independent living. The community’s dedication to healthy relationships, nutrition, and fitness programs is reflected in the reasonable monthly rent, offering everything needed to thrive where residents call home.

Contact Stoneridge Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of Southern Pines Gracious Retirement Living

Southern Pines Gracious Retirement Living creates a lifestyle for independent living services that aim to make aging graceful; they provide personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs. The team of compassionate and professional staff excels in extending its service with warmth and comfort where seniors can feel amplified in finding new possibilities in the community.

The Gracious Retirement Living lifestyle centers its services on the thought of comfort and convenience, ensuring the needs of all its residents are holistically met; seniors can experience delicious dining in a restaurant-style dining room, scheduled activities for engagement and socialization, transportation to check-ups and other errands, and a resident travel programs for an easy and hassle-free vacation. 

Contact Southern Pines Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of Carolina Estates Gracious Retirement Living

Tucked away in Guilford County, Greensboro, NC, Carolina Estates Gracious Retirement Living is an exceptional senior living community that offers independent living. Residents can choose from spacious studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments for a snug and relaxing living space. A management team lives on-site and are available throughout the day and when residents need them, providing them with comfort and peace of mind.

The community also offers residents access to assistance with physical, occupational or speech therapies through its partnership with a trusted third-party provider. An executive chef and culinary team prepare fresh, homemade dishes from scratch three times each day to provide residents with daily sustenance. A diverse calendar of activities and events provides plenty of opportunities to participate in the arts, learn new skills, try out new fitness classes and travel to domestic and foreign locations, fostering a vibrant retirement experience.

Contact Carolina Estates Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of Holiday Gardens at Wakefield

Step into the welcoming embrace of Holiday Gardens at Wakefield, where traditional architecture and cozy interiors create a charming atmosphere. This community is dedicated to providing exceptional independent living services and top-notch amenities. Nestled in a delightful residential neighborhood just a short distance from Falls Lake, this multi-story community offers a serene and picturesque setting. The esteemed Great Place to Work Institute has recognized Holiday The Gardens at Wakefield as a certified Great Place to Work® for the 2022-2023 awards.

At this pet-friendly assisted living community, residents can enjoy a low-stress environment designed to enhance their well-being. A dedicated team of associates takes care of regular housekeeping, maintenance, and light linen services, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free lifestyle. Scheduled transportation services are also available, providing convenience and accessibility. The culinary team prepares a variety of menu options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Indulge in a delightful dining experience in the picturesque, restaurant-style dining hall, complete with comfortable furnishings that add to your overall enjoyment. Holiday Gardens at Wakefield offer numerous gathering areas where residents can socialize with loved ones and create cherished memories. For those who appreciate outdoor activities, several golf courses, scenic parks, and fishing areas are within close proximity, providing opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.

Contact Holiday Gardens at Wakefield

Overview of Carolina Pines Retirement Community

Carolina Pines
Greensboro’s Independent Retirement Community
Under Construction

Welcome to Worry-Free Senior Living in Greensboro!
Resting along the southwest edge of greater Greensboro, Carolina Pines offers easy access to vibrant shopping,
dining, and entertainment. Residents can explore downtown or nearby High Point, Jamestown, and WinstonSalem. With parks and lush forests nearby, the community provides a peaceful escape from city life.

Schedule a tour and join us for lunch. You’ll love what Carolina Pines has to offer for independent retirement living.

2998 Alamance Road
Greensboro, NC 27407

Carolina Pines Retirement Community

Discover the joy and ease of all-inclusive retirement living. Picture yourself in a luxurious, safe, and
vibrant community with a fantastic location for fun local outings. With three chef-prepared meals
offered daily, and weekly housekeeping and maintenance included, you’ll have more time for family,
friends, and the other important things in life. This vision comes to life at Carolina Pines Retirement Community

Designed for comfort, our apartment homes come in a variety of floor plans. Each living space features
window coverings, a climate-controlled thermostat, and ample closet space. The apartment kitchens are
also equipped with full-sized appliances. You are free to decorate your unit around your unique tastes.
Pets are also warmly welcome for no additional fee.

Our Signature Freedom Dining program is the focal point of the resort lifestyle and often the most
praised feature of our community. Our executive chef prepares three quality meals daily with an
evolving menu, fresh ingredients, and diet-conscious recipes. Can’t make it to dinner? No worries. With
our meal delivery service, we’ll prepare you a plate and bring it to your door. You can also visit the
“chef’s pantry” for snacks any time – day or night.

The most important part of our community is the shared spaces that allow you to meet other residents,
celebrate fun and memorable moments, and relax. Our common areas include a 150-seat theater,
library, billiards room, arcade, conversation areas, a lounge with bar, superb fitness and exercise room,
spa area, and business center. Our Lifestyle Director plans monthly community events around these
spaces, allowing you to practice new skills, see new things, meet new people, and much more.

While our community focuses on making your retirement fun and fulfilling, our greatest priority is your
safety. Our managers are your neighbors and live on-site to ensure you are happily enjoying your best
retirement life. With our 24/7 Emergency Alert System, round-the clock concierge, and live-in managers
there’s never a moment when you are unable to reach somebody for help!

Our gorgeous community is full of amenities and services, allowing you to enjoy all the conveniences of
all-inclusive living without the hassle of upkeep. Our ample list of amenities and robust social calendar
offers you choice and flexibility in how you choose to spend your time.

Additionally, if you’re ever craving a change of scenery and don’t want to leave behind the comforts we
offer, no worries! With our travel program, you can explore the country while staying at any of our other
Resort Lifestyle Communities locations for no additional cost.

Relax in the theater while watching a movie or get active in a group fitness class; spend teatime with the
gals or watch a game with the guys; cuddle up with a good book or go join a happy hour for fun times
with the neighbors! However you wish to spend your time, we are here to support the retirement of
your dreams.

Retire well. Retire here. Call today to schedule a private tour!

Contact Carolina Pines Retirement Community

Overview of Heritage Place Senior Living

Discover an enjoyable community with the Heritage Place Senior Living located in the heart of Fayetteville, NC. This welcoming community offers independent living, assisted living, and respite care services. Here, residents are convenient to roam around beautiful places like Cape Fear Botanical Garden, and centuries-old cathedrals. Spacious accommodations with a wide array of floor plans are tailored to individual tastes or preferences.

With its modern amenities, residents can enjoy health and wellness programs like fitness and therapy services. Enjoy its chef-prepared dining with delightful meals and art activities like painting classes and museum visits. Meet new people and build lasting friendships through its interactive and fun life enrichment activities. At the Heritage Place Senior Living, seniors are assured of a wondrous living experience.

Contact Heritage Place Senior Living

Independence Village of Olde Raleigh

3113 Charles B Root Wynd, Raleigh, NC 27612
Overview of Independence Village of Olde Raleigh

Independence Village of Olde Raleigh, situated in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, provides a tranquil retreat for seniors seeking an enriching lifestyle. With round-the-clock staffing, residents receive the necessary support while maintaining their privacy and autonomy. Each home ensures comfort and safety. Furry companions are warmly welcomed, adding joy and companionship to residents’ lives. 

Independence Village of Olde Raleigh offers a range of thoughtfully designed apartment layouts tailored to seniors. At Independence Village of Olde Raleigh, community, comfort, and connection thrive, making the golden years truly special.  Nestled among majestic oaks, this welcoming community offers the ideal setting for enjoying the golden years with grace and independence.

Contact Independence Village of Olde Raleigh

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 North Carolina

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 146 independent living communities in North Carolina. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in North Carolina?

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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?

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.