Page 5 of Best Independent Living in North Carolina

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 149 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
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We analyzed These are the facilities in North Carolina our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in North Carolina.
149 homes
Other senior care options in North Carolina:

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-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.

Care Types in This Table AL (Assisted Living): Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing. NH (Nursing Home): 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility): Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. MC (Memory Care): Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. RC (Respite Care): Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care. HC (Home Care): Professional care delivered in the person's own home, from companionship to skilled nursing. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment. CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community): A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
City and state of the facility. Used for mapping and state-average comparisons.
Licensed bed capacity (maximum allowed). Not the same as how many beds are currently filled.
Indicates whether residents are allowed to have pets in the facility.
Third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100). Convenience/context metric, not a healthcare quality measure.
Reported or derived occupancy for the facility—typically how fully licensed capacity is utilized. Compare across peers in the same market.
Better Business Bureau grade for the operating company. Reflects complaint handling and business practices, not clinical care quality.
NC DHSR Star Rating (0–4 stars). Issued by North Carolina's Division of Health Service Regulation based on annual facility inspections. Stars reflect overall compliance with state health and safety rules - 4 stars requires scores of 100+ on two consecutive annual inspections. Ratings can change between inspections if new violations or licensure actions occur.
DHSR Quality Score (/200). Each annual inspection starts at a base of 100 points. Facilities earn demerit points for violations and citations, and merit points for correcting issues, maintaining resident/family councils, sprinkler systems, and other quality programs. The "/200" display reflects the two most recent annual inspections combined - giving a longer-term view of compliance trends rather than a single snapshot.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
Share of inspections that resulted in deficiencies, expressed as a percentage of total inspections in the window.
Housing or bed configuration options (e.g. studio, shared), often from facility-reported amenities and licensing details.
Wesley Pines
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Lumberton
62
Facility 62
NC AVG 70
Rank #34 / 62
Yes
9
Facility 9
NC AVG 34
Rank #122 / 142
88.5%
Facility 88.5%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #12 / 39
A+--?--1 Bed / Cottage / Villa
Trinity Elms Assisted Living
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Clemmons
104No
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 34
Rank #79 / 142
--101.00/200B+1173%Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
WhiteStone
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Greensboro
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 70
Rank #35 / 62
Yes
31
Facility 31
NC AVG 34
Rank #73 / 142
85.7%
Facility 85.7%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #14 / 39
A+--?--1 Bed / 2 Bed
Givens Highland Farms
IL
HC
NH
RC
SNF
Black Mountain
60
Facility 60
NC AVG 70
Rank #35 / 62
Yes
12
Facility 12
NC AVG 34
Rank #116 / 142
79.7%
Facility 79.7%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #19 / 39
---?--Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 Bed
St. Joseph of the Pines, a CCRC
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Southern Pines
176
Facility 176
NC AVG 70
Rank #2 / 62
Yes
2
Facility 2
NC AVG 34
Rank #141 / 142
41.6%
Facility 41.6%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #34 / 39
A+--?--Private Rooms
Friends Homes
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Greensboro (Guilford College)
69
Facility 69
NC AVG 70
Rank #24 / 62
No
35
Facility 35
NC AVG 34
Rank #65 / 142
95.1%
Facility 95.1%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #5 / 39
---?--Villa Apartments / Townhomes / Apartments / Cottages
Champions Assisted Living at the Davis Community
IL
AL
MC
NH
RC
SNF
Wilmington
115
Facility 115
NC AVG 70
Rank #10 / 62
Yes
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 34
Rank #125 / 142
93.9%
Facility 93.9%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #6 / 39
---C+--1 Bed / 2 Bed
Aldersgate
IL
AL
HOS
MC
NH
RC
SNF
Charlotte (Windsor Park)
-No
40
Facility 40
NC AVG 34
Rank #57 / 142
-A+---3
100%
Facility 100%
NC AVG 64.9%
Rank #19 / 46
1 Bed / 2 Bed
Dunmore Senior Living of Siler City
IL
AL
MC
RC
Siler City
86
Facility 86
NC AVG 70
Rank #17 / 62
No
65
Facility 65
NC AVG 34
Rank #8 / 142
22.1%
Facility 22.1%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #39 / 39
-
90.00/200
Facility 90.00/200
NC AVG 94.6
Rank #35 / 40
C13
100%
Facility 100%
NC AVG 64.9%
Rank #19 / 46
-
Arbor Acres
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Winston-Salem
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 70
Rank #60 / 62
Yes
20
Facility 20
NC AVG 34
Rank #99 / 142
78.3%
Facility 78.3%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #22 / 39
---?--Studio / 1 Bed

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each independent living community is ranked against every other NC independent living community we track that reports that metric, not just the 149 on this page. See how we rank facilities

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Wesley Pines

1000 Wesley Pines Rd, Lumberton, NC 28358
Overview of Wesley Pines

With its rich history of providing exceptional senior care since 1977, Wesley Pines Retirement Community in the beautiful setting of Wesley Pines Road, Lumberton, NC features independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Set on 49 acres of serene grounds, the community has a variety of cottages and villas with two-bedroom floor plans for seniors to live comfortably and safely. As a life plan community, Wesley Pines Retirement Community doubles its efforts to meet seniors’ ever-changing needs and aspirations.

Handling the maintenance and other household responsibilities, the community provides a full slate of enjoyable activities and fun programs for residents to remain happy and well-connected. Here, healthy and delightful dining options are served for a satisfactory mealtime. Wesley Pines Retirement Community offers top-tier services and incredible amenities, ensuring seniors optimize their freedom.

Contact Wesley Pines

Overview of Trinity Elms Assisted Living

Situated in the picturesque surroundings of Clemmons, North Carolina, Trinity Elms encompasses a diverse array of services designed to cater to the multifaceted needs of its residents. This vibrant campus extends its offerings to include assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and independent living apartments. Operated by the not-for-profit Lutheran Services Carolinas, Trinity Elms boasts amenities that may otherwise be considered cost-prohibitive at for-profit facilities.

Trinity Elms Assisted Living’s staff is dedicated to walking alongside residents, providing them with the care and support required to preserve their cherished independence within a community that radiates warmth. Unique highlights include an inviting ice cream parlor, outdoor walking trails, and a serene indoor courtyard, all fostering a sense of belonging. Trinity Elms’ recognition further exemplifies this dedication to senior residents’ well-being and comfort as a 2016 Excellence in Action award winner, a testament to the high satisfaction rates experienced by its residents.

Contact Trinity Elms Assisted Living

WhiteStone

700 S Holden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27407
Overview of WhiteStone

WhiteStone is a blissful senior living community in Guilford County, Greensboro, NC, offering a vibrant independent living environment. Residents are provided plenty of options for their living space, including spacious apartments, cozy cottages, and free standing single residences, set in beautifully maintained 42-acre ground. In addition to a maintenance-free living, residents are also given access to an array of healthcare services, such as routine checkups, rehabilitation therapy, short- and long-term skilled nursing, and memory care should they need it.

Without the worries of housekeeping, maintenance, and meal preparation, residents can focus on living their life to the fullest. Hence, the community offers plenty of beautiful amenities and enriching activities. Here, residents are free to pursue their hobbies, explore new interests, make new friends, or visit all those places they’ve always wanted to explore.

Contact WhiteStone

Overview of Givens Highland Farms

At Givens Highland Farms, the vision is to empower seniors to lead fulfilling lives, fostering independence, community, and security. Offering home care and enhanced independent living, residents can explore their interests through numerous resident-led groups and enjoy the beauty of Black Mountain’s nature. With quality health services available on-site, seniors experience peace of mind knowing their needs will be met.

The community offers an array of amenities, including a winter greenhouse, dog park, and woodworking shop. Residents can engage in indoor activities like arts and crafts or utilize the fitness programs and medical services. Givens Highland Farms prioritizes active senior living and well-being from spacious residences to transportation services. Givens Highland Farms is the top choice for independent living and home services in Black Mountain, North Carolina.

Contact Givens Highland Farms

Overview of St. Joseph of the Pines, a CCRC

St. Joseph of the Pines by the Trinity Health community delivers quality service thoughtfully designed to offer both convenience and comfort in one setting. The continuing care retirement home specializes in independent living assisted living, and nursing care services. Reflected on their recognition by the U.S. News and World Report as the Best Nursing Homes for short-term rehabilitation, one can understand the home’s value. St. Joseph of the Pines continuously improves the lives of its residents by creating a cozy environment where an abundance of opportunities is available. 

The lifestyle at St. Joseph’s practices a personalized care approach anchored by the trusted bond between residents and staff; personal care services include ADLs, 24-hour care and nursing, medication administration, engaging programs, and on-site therapy services– speech, physical, and occupational. 

Contact St. Joseph of the Pines, a CCRC

Overview of Friends Homes

Located in Guilford County, Greensboro, NC, Friends Homes is an inviting senior living community that offers a safe haven far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The community features an array of living options, including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, and memory care, ensuring a smooth transition should residents’ needs change. Residents can choose from a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans for enjoying life without having to worry about everyday maintenance and upkeep, guaranteeing a worry-free lifestyle.

Dedicated to creating an enriching and vibrant environment, the community conducts a wide array of activities and offers plenty of relaxing spaces for peaceful personal times and vibrant interactions with friends and fellow residents. The community’s ideal location also provides easy access to a variety of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants whenever residents want to go out and explore. Residents also enjoy access to a wellness center with a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor heated pool, and a sports court to foster fitness and well-being.

Contact Friends Homes

Overview of Champions Assisted Living at the Davis Community

Champions Assisted Living, located within The Davis Communities in Wilmington, NC, is a senior living community specifically designed for The Davies Communities’ residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. They provide assisted living services along with memory care, in their one-to-two bedroom units equipped with living area, ample closet space, kitchenette, and private bathroom. As part of their assisted living services, the residents are provided round-the-clock availability of staff for supervision and assistance, diabetic care, medication management, and monthly wellness checkup, as well as therapy services.

The residents of Champions Assisted Living are also able to enjoy a myriad of amenities they offer including meal preparation services and dining options within the community, assistance with daily living activities, mobility and transportation assistance, access to fitness rooms and pool, and grooming services at the salon and spa. Being conveniently situated within the Davis Communities, Champions Assisted Living Services are also provided access to their auditorium, club room, and art studio. Lastly, they offer laundry and housekeeping services, to ensure the overall comfort of their residents’ stay.

Contact Champions Assisted Living at the Davis Community

Overview of Aldersgate

Situated along Shamrock Drive, Givens Aldersgate is a life plan community in Charlotte, NC, that offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. With a 230-acre campus, this 120-bed community provides a variety of accommodations, including private suites for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Daily housekeeping, personal laundry, chef-prepared meals, and personal transportation are also provided to enrich residents’ living experiences. Nursing assistance is also available 24/7, along with physician services, to ensure accessibility of care at all times.

Enrichment activities, gardening, and spiritual support promote holistic wellness and encourage residents to live actively. Physical & speech therapy, as well as medication management, are also provided for residents’ welfare. Its location is also relatively walkable, with a walkability score of 40, indicating that some services can be reached on foot. Currently, the community has 93.8% occupancy, with an average length of stay of 50 days.

Contact Aldersgate

Dunmore Senior Living of Siler City

260 Village Lake Road Siler City, Nc 27344, Siler City, NC 27344
Overview of Dunmore Senior Living of Siler City

Dunmore Senior Living of Siler City provides assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite care in Siler City, NC. Assisted living offers help with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication, while independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care. Memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering, and respite care offers a short stay for a family whose usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.

The range of care levels may be a good fit for a resident whose needs may change over time, since they can move between care levels without leaving the community or starting over socially. The community has 86 beds. With a Walk Score of 65, the area is somewhat walkable, so some errands can be done on foot.

Contact Dunmore Senior Living of Siler City

Overview of Arbor Acres

Situated in the heart of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Arbor Acres is a distinguished continuing care retirement community. This tranquil haven provides a spectrum of living options, spanning independent living, assisted care, memory care, and skilled nursing, designed to cater to diverse senior needs.

Within the rare and beautiful setting of Arbor Acres, residents find a place to reside and a canvas where purpose, creativity, and motivation flourish. Life at Arbor Acres shines brilliantly, fostering an environment where friendships blossom and the art of living is embraced. All are welcome to experience the exceptional lifestyle offered at Arbor Acres, where each resident is invited to savor the richness of their journey in this vibrant and thriving community.

Contact Arbor Acres

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
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Independent Living in North Carolina at a glance

Avg Walk Score: 34/ 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: 70The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in North Carolina. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90
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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 149 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.