Other senior care options in North Carolina:

Page 12 of Best Independent Living in North Carolina

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 146 independent living communities in NC using NC Dept. of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in NC
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jul 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

Info below is compiled from the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking methodology.

Glenaire
IL
NH
AL
Cary (Glenaire)
71
Facility 71
NC AVG 72
Rank #183 / 388
No
25
Facility 25
NC AVG 33
Rank #347 / 573
94.1% A+--3
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 333
-
St. Joseph of the Pines, a CCRC
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Southern Pines
176
Facility 176
NC AVG 72
Rank #5 / 388
Yes
2
Facility 2
NC AVG 33
Rank #527 / 573
41.0% A+----Private Rooms
River Landing At Sandy Ridge
IL
AL
MC
NH
Colfax
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 72
Rank #231 / 388
Yes
7
Facility 7
NC AVG 33
Rank #477 / 573
92.5% -----Apartments / Cottages / Townhomes / Villas
Piedmont Crossing
IL
NH
AL
HC
MC
RC
SNF
Thomasville (Hedrick Drive)
104
Facility 104
NC AVG 72
Rank #70 / 388
Yes
4
Facility 4
NC AVG 33
Rank #507 / 573
74.0% -----1 Bed / 2 Bed
Friends Homes
IL
NH
AL
MC
SNF
Greensboro (Guilford College)
69
Facility 69
NC AVG 72
Rank #193 / 388
No
35
Facility 35
NC AVG 33
Rank #261 / 573
87.5% -----Villa Apartments / Townhomes / Apartments / Cottages
Carol Woods
IL
AL
NH
SNF
Chapel Hill (Carol Woods)
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 72
Rank #327 / 388
Yes
13
Facility 13
NC AVG 33
Rank #433 / 573
72.7% ---3
0%
Facility 0%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #1 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Abernethy Laurels
IL
NH
AL
HC
MC
RC
SNF
Newton
174
Facility 174
NC AVG 72
Rank #6 / 388
Yes
0
Facility 0
NC AVG 33
Rank #549 / 573
96.0% -----1 Bed /2 Bed
Givens Highland Farms
IL
HC
NH
RC
SNF
Black Mountain
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 72
Rank #231 / 388
Yes
12
Facility 12
NC AVG 33
Rank #441 / 573
84.7% -----Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 Bed
Carolina Bay at Autumn Hall
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Wilmington (Windemere)
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 72
Rank #327 / 388
No
18
Facility 18
NC AVG 33
Rank #395 / 573
94.3% -----1 Bed / 2 Bed
Carolina Village
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Hendersonville
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 72
Rank #231 / 388
Yes
82
Facility 82
NC AVG 33
Rank #3 / 573
79.8% -
99.50/200
Facility 99.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #145 / 321
15
60%
Facility 60%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #47 / 333
-
Croasdaile Village
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
SNF
Durham
64
Facility 64
NC AVG 72
Rank #214 / 388
Yes
9
Facility 9
NC AVG 33
Rank #463 / 573
--
104.50/200
Facility 104.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #20 / 321
15
60%
Facility 60%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #47 / 333
-
Homestead Hills Assisted Living
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Winston-Salem
66
Facility 66
NC AVG 72
Rank #199 / 388
Yes
20
Facility 20
NC AVG 33
Rank #378 / 573
30.3% -
103.50/200
Facility 103.50/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #31 / 321
19
73.7%
Facility 73.7%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #114 / 333
-
Terrabella Lake Norman
IL
AL
MC
Mooresville
120
Facility 120
NC AVG 72
Rank #36 / 388
Yes
46
Facility 46
NC AVG 33
Rank #186 / 573
100.0% C+
96.00/200
Facility 96.00/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #205 / 321
30
83.3%
Facility 83.3%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #219 / 333
Suite / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Brookdale Carriage Club Providence
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Charlotte (Olde Providence North)
77
Facility 77
NC AVG 72
Rank #166 / 388
Yes
12
Facility 12
NC AVG 33
Rank #441 / 573
-A+
98.75/200
Facility 98.75/200
NC AVG 92.2
Rank #167 / 321
15
80%
Facility 80%
NC AVG 76.2%
Rank #168 / 333
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
The Sharon at SouthPark
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Charlotte (Beverly Woods)
19
Facility 19
NC AVG 72
Rank #334 / 388
Yes
49
Facility 49
NC AVG 33
Rank #162 / 573
25.3% -----Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
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Overview of Jordan Oaks Gracious Retirement Living

Jordan Oaks, located in Cary, NC is a retirement community by Gracious Retirement Living offering independent living services and amenities to its residents. The offer studio and one-to-two bedroom units featuring private bathrooms, a space for living area, kitchenette, and patios. This senior living community envisions their residents’ retirement years to be fun and fulfilling, offering them conveniences to ensure that they have more time and energy to do what they love.

The services and amenities they offer that provide conveniences, include transportation services for outside appointments as well as scheduled trips, culinary services where meals are served  restaurant-style in their dining room, and the scheduled activities and programs that aim to enhance the residents overall well being. Additionally, they also offer a resident travel program, where a resident may be able to stay for a week in any Gracious Retirement Living communities where meals are also provided.

Contact Jordan Oaks 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 The Kempton at Brightmore

Administered by Melissa Crouch, The Kempton at Brightmore is a senior living community in the Brightmore Liberty neighborhood of Wilmington, North Carolina. It offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care. The community is about 1 mile from the city center. The multiple levels of care in one location allow residents to transition between services as their needs change without relocating. The three-story community offers studio and one-bedroom floor plans ranging from about 360 to 525 square feet.

Residents can personalize their apartments with their own furniture and décor. For those who prefer not to bring furniture, the community provides a bed, dresser, and nightstand at no additional cost. Each residence includes individual heating and air conditioning controls and a kitchenette with a mini refrigerator. There’s also a space for a personal microwave, a private bathroom with a handheld shower and fold-down seat, and an in-room emergency call system for quick assistance.

Residents receive 24-hour supervision, medication administration and management, and assistance with light activities of daily living. The community also follows infection prevention and control practices, including contact tracing and isolation procedures when needed.

Three chef-prepared meals are served each day in the private dining room and country kitchen. Amenities on-site include a beauty salon and barber shop. Residents can also access housekeeping, laundry services, transportation, and fitness and recreation programs. The community welcomes pets. Activities here focus on social, spiritual, intellectual, and physical wellness through events such as musical performances, gourmet chef demonstrations, and card games.

The car-dependent area has a Walk Score of 22. Most errands require a vehicle, and nearby walkable options are limited. Families should plan to drive for shopping, dining, and appointments.

Contact The Kempton At Brightmore

Overview of Harmony at Brookberry Farm

As its name suggests, Harmony at Brookberry Farm ensures a serene and harmonious community environment; it also indicates that senior living is supposed to be calming and balanced– a freeing lifestyle with the necessary support. The elegant community is an independent living, assisted living, and secured assisted living with personal care. Residents receive a strong sense of freedom in addition to specialized assistance. Harmony at Brookberry Farm is a home that allows residents to tailor their lifestyle to suit their needs.

As a proud member of the Harmony Senior Living community, expect an elevated lifestyle because of its detail-oriented approach to care and complete attention to the needs of its residents. Their amenities and services include laundry services, transportation services, healthy and delicious chef-prepared meals, memory retention activities, and fitness programs. Its memory care services aid seniors programs that are focused on mental stimulation.

Contact Harmony at Brookberry Farm

Overview of Solista Charlotte by Cogir

Embraced by a blanket of mature trees and a serene setting in Charlotte, NC, Solista Charlotte by Cogir focuses on independent living. The community is committed to residents’ well-being and offers them purposely built accommodations ranging from studio to two-bedroom floor plans, alongside 24/7 emergency and non-emergency response. Through innovations like the Lively Mobile Plus Device, residents are guaranteed top-tier care without restraining their independence.

Learn new things and live life to the fullest with a full slate of engaging events and fun activities, highlighting resident’s interests and strengths. Mealtimes are also something to anticipate with healthy and delicious restaurant-style dining. Here, residents are free to enjoy incredible amenities like the media room, library, game room, a beautiful garden, and serene community grounds.

Contact Solista Charlotte by Cogir

Overview of Salemtowne Retirement Community

Nestled in the picturesque landscape, Salemtowne Retirement Community stands as a tranquil haven for seniors seeking a vibrant and supportive lifestyle in their golden years. With a focus on holistic living, this community provides comfortable residential options, from spacious cottages to cozy apartments, ensuring every resident finds their ideal abode. The community’s commitment to promoting an active and fulfilling retirement is evident in its array of recreational facilities, including fitness centers, walking trails, and creative spaces. Salemtowne Retirement Community stands as more than just a place to reside; it’s a nurturing environment where seniors can embrace each day with enthusiasm and joy.
At Salemtowne Retirement Community, the essence of graceful aging is exemplified through a range of comprehensive services that cater to the evolving needs of its residents. From the assurance of healthcare access to the convenience of on-site dining options, the community places a premium on enhancing the quality of life for its senior members. Professional staff and caregivers are dedicated to providing personalized support, allowing residents to maintain their independence while knowing that assistance is readily available when required. The community’s serene surroundings and thoughtfully designed architecture create an atmosphere of serenity and relaxation, fostering a sense of belonging and security. Rooted in a tradition of respect for individuality and a commitment to well-being,

Contact Salemtowne Retirement Community

Overview of Solista Hickory by Cogir

Set in Hickory, North Carolina, Solista Hickory by Cogir provides independent living in a three-story building. Apartment options include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts, allowing older adults to select a residence that matches their preferences and lifestyle.

While residents live independently, support is available through 24-hour emergency and non-emergency response services. A wearable alert device offers an added layer of security for those who value both independence and quick access to assistance. Dining is provided in a restaurant-style setting, with meals tailored to individual dietary needs and preferences.

Community amenities include a library, game room, media room, outdoor gathering spaces, transportation services, and a variety of fitness and recreational opportunities. These features help residents remain active, engaged, and socially connected. Pets are also welcome, making it easier for older adults to bring a small animal companion.

The surrounding neighborhood has a Walk Score of 22, indicating that most shopping, appointments, and errands require a vehicle. With a combination of independent living, on-site services, and recreational offerings, the community is designed for older adults seeking convenience in a residential setting.

Contact Solista Hickory by Cogir

Overview of Azalea Estates Gracious Retirement Living

Enriching seniors’ lives with compassionate assistance, vibrant activities, and excellent services, Azalea Estates is a remarkable senior living community in Chapel Hill, NC, offering independent living. Warm and inviting spaces awaits residents, giving them plenty of spaces for relaxation, making connections, and leisure. Residents can choose from a variety of studios, 1 bedrooms & 2 bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, 24-hour emergency pull cords and other conveniences for a comfortable and secure living environment. Live-in managers live within the community to ensure residents can easily reach them when they need assistance.

Indulge in a vibrant daily programming and fun activities, events, and organized outings inspired by individual preferences and needs. Chef-prepared meals, weekly housekeeping, linen services, maintenance, and transportation services allows residents to enjoy more of their time instead of spending it worrying about chores and the hassle of daily living. Amenities include a grand theater, library, salon, fitness center, craft room, and several community rooms and common areas for gathering and socializing with families, friends, and fellow residents.

Contact Azalea Estates Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of Verena at Bedford Falls

Experience the serenity and convenience of Raleigh, NC with the blissful retreat of Verana at Bedford Falls that offers independent living. Enjoy your later years surrounded by the community’s well-designed and fully-furnished one- and two-bedroom accommodations for the finest comfort and safety. Maintenance, housekeeping, and concierge services are also provided to ensure a hassle-free lifestyle.

Enjoy the best of your golden years with a full slate of enriching activities and engaging programs tailored to residents’ leisure and wellness. Have a satisfactory dining experience with healthy and delicious meals catering to dietary needs and tastes. The community features plenty of amenities including a heated pool, a salon, a fitness center, lounges, and a fireplace, perfect for recreation and socialization.

Contact Verena at Bedford Falls

Mill Creek Manor

1902 Ora Drive Statesville, Nc 28625, Statesville, NC 28625
Overview of Mill Creek Manor
Mill Creek Manor is a senior living community located in Columbia, SC. It offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services, catering to seniors who desire a social lifestyle and comfortable living spaces. The community provides a range of amenities and services designed to enhance comfort and foster companionship.

Contact Mill Creek Manor

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.
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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.