Other senior care options in North Carolina:

Page 6 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 Holiday Gardens at Wakefield

Holiday Gardens at Wakefield is an independent living community at 12800 Spruce Tree Way in North Raleigh’s neighborhood. It’s housed in a mid-rise building and welcomes occupants seeking an active, independent lifestyle with easy access to nearby amenities and services.

The community offers one- and two-bedroom floor plans tailored to provide flexibility for different preferences and living needs. The moderately walkable neighborhood bears a Walk Score of 55, making some errands accessible on foot, while most outings benefit from a brief drive. Starting at $3,949 monthly, Holiday Gardens at Wakefield provides an option for those planning independent living arrangements. Pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly home, allowing occupants to have their companions with them as they enjoy their years of greater independence and flexibility. The location in North Raleigh positions the facility to serve older adults seeking personal freedom and an established residential setting.

Contact Holiday Gardens at Wakefield

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

McCarthy Court

1321 Mccarthy Blvd Bldg. 2 1325, New Bern, NC 28562
Overview of McCarthy Court

Located in the historic New Bern, NC, McCarthy Court is a charming independent living community featuring spacious one and two-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with a variety of activities, from learning new skills to exploring local attractions. The community’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for seniors to feel right at home while enjoying delicious meals crafted by chefs trained at top culinary schools.

McCarthy Court aims to enhance the lives of its residents through personalized care, individualized medical resources and an array of engaging activities that fosters enriching experiences. With a focus on community and connection, they offer diverse programs and amenities, including arts and crafts, book clubs, and leisurely outings. Whether engaging in social activities or enjoying quiet moments, residents find a fulfilling and comforting environment tailored to their needs at McCarthy Court.

Contact McCarthy Court

Overview of Waltonwood Lake Boone

Settled in the serene setting of Wilson, NC, Waltonwood Lake Boone offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. This family-owned community ensures residents receive the right level of support to age in place, with comfortable one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans designed to enhance daily life.

This vibrant community prides itself on a variety of services and activities that encourage social engagement, including a garden house, lifestyle club, and travel club. With gourmet dining, wellness programs, and an inviting environment, residents enjoy a carefree, maintenance-free lifestyle. Waltonwood Lake Boone also offers opportunities for family involvement, ensuring loved ones remain a part of the journey. A perfect blend of care, comfort, and community awaits, offering an enriching and fulfilling lifestyle.

Contact Waltonwood Lake Boone

Overview of Atria Southpoint Walk

Atria Southpoint Walk is a retirement community catering to independent and assisted living needs. It is Just a short distance from Old West Durham and just minutes away from the Duke University Golf Club. Atria Southpoint Walk places a strong focus on residents’ well-being and connections.

Experience a fulfilling and satisfying lifestyle within the community and its inviting surroundings. This assisted living community prides itself on amenities that enhance residents’ lives. Residents can shape their days according to their preferences with chef-prepared meals, a modern fitness center, a cinematic theater, and an enjoyable game room.

Contact Atria Southpoint Walk

Overview of The Cardinal at North Hills

From top-notch safety protocols to a commitment to transparency and trust, The Cardinal at North Hills is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for its residents in Raleigh. With low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise apartments available, along with one to three-bedroom options, residents can find the perfect abode that suits their needs and preferences. 

Seniors can say goodbye to household chores, as housekeeping, utilities, maintenance services, and more are all taken care of, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their days to the fullest. With round-the-clock security and licensed clinical staff available, residents can have peace of mind knowing that their safety and well-being are a top priority. With features such as no-threshold tile showers and handicap-accessible bathrooms, the community is inclusive and accommodating for all. Additionally, the apartments come fully furnished, making the transition to a new home seamless and hassle-free.

Contact The Cardinal at North Hills

Overview of Givens Gerber Park

Situated in Asheville, North Carolina, Givens Gerber Park is an independent living community designed for older adults who want to maintain an active and independent lifestyle while enjoying the benefits of a residential community. The surrounding neighborhood is moderately walkable, allowing residents to reach some nearby shops, services, and amenities on foot.

Additionally, the community promotes social engagement through opportunities for connection, activities, and optional support services that allow residents to manage their own households while receiving assistance when needed. Its Asheville location also provides convenient access to the city’s dining, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.

Contact Givens Gerber Park

Homestead Hills

3250 Homestead Club Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Overview of Homestead Hills

Situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Homestead Hills stands as a premier retirement community with a rich tradition of commitment. Living options encompass Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, and Short-Term Rehabilitation & Therapy, all unified by a dedicated mission: to help its Members live Longer, Healthier, Happier lives.

Homestead Hills extends a warm invitation to individuals eager to experience an ideal retirement. Within this community, residents find luxurious accommodations, a vibrant social calendar, restaurant-style fine dining, and an award-winning wellness program, all designed to make retirement genuinely fulfilling.

Contact Homestead Hills

Overview of Searstone Retirement Community

Searstone Retirement Community, located in Cary, NC, is a senior living community offering a range of services from assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing services. Their professional caring staff works closely with the residents as well as their families, in creating individualized care plans, in order to determine and meet the residents’ specific care needs.

Their First class skilled nursing services provides residents with 24/7 staff availability for supervision and assistance, round the clock personalized care, medication administration and management, and access to medical care on site as well as other professional services. Additionally their amenities like concierge and transportation services, meal provision and housekeeping and linen service, as well as 24/hr security and emergency call response, enhances the residents experiences during their stay at Searstone.

Contact Searstone Retirement Community

Overview of Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living

Empowering seniors to fully enjoy their golden years, Shads Landing is an astonishing senior living community in Charlotte, NC, offering independent living. Featuring a variety of studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, the community ensures a comfy and secure residence with access to necessary services. Housekeeping, linen, and maintenance are handled to give residents more time to spend on the things they love. Residents are at ease, knowing that a team of hospitable managers live on-site.

The community inspires residents to live a full and vibrant lifestyle with an array of stimulating activities, classes, excursions and events, complemented with their resident travel program. Common spaces like a game room, billiard lounge, library, salon, fitness center, and movie theater, helps residents bond while enjoying their own time. A culinary team thoughtfully curates a menu tailored to residents’ dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring they enjoy an exceptional dining experience.

Contact Shads Landing 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
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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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.