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
Rows per page:
View all Nearby Homes
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 Whispering Pines Gracious Retirement Living

Situated in Raleigh, NC, Whispering Pines is a peaceful senior living community that aims to provide seniors with a fulfilling independent living experience. Enjoy personal time in a well-designed residence, with a variety of studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans to choose from. Peace of mind is guaranteed with a team of managers that live within the community and a 24-hour emergency pull cord in each apartment in case of emergency or need for assistance. Residents needing extra care are allowed to access their third-party home care provider, ensuring they can continue to live a fulfilling, independent life.

The community provides a worry-free lifestyle with convenient amenities and services like housekeeping, linen, maintenance, and transportation services. Residents also enjoy access to a laundry room, library, salon, fitness center, theater, landscaped gardens and walking paths, perfect for basking in the sun or refreshing air. The community also offers several community rooms and cozy common areas where social events take place and a guest suite for visiting family and friends.

Contact Whispering Pines Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of The Gables at Druid Hills Senior Apartments

Surrounded by recreational sites and convenient local amenities in Kohler Avenue, Charlotte, NC, The Gables at Druid Hills Senior Apartments is a distinct 55+ community that offers independent living. With sophisticated and beautifully designed accommodations in various one- and two-bedroom floor plans, residents’ comfort and convenience are guaranteed. Enjoy every moment of your best years in the community’s warm and welcoming environment.

Residents will not run out of things to do, with a carefully curated calendar of fun activities and enriching programs, alongside an extensive array of amenities designed for leisure and wellness. The community also features 24-hour emergency pull cords, smoke detectors, a library, garden spaces, and clothes care centers, ensuring residents’ comfort and safety.

Contact The Gables at Druid Hills Senior Apartments

Overview of The Cypress of Charlotte

Live a wondrous retirement with The Cypress of Charlotte, an astounding community set in the tranquil residential area of Cypress Club Drive, Charlotte, NC, that offers independent living. The community features luxurious and specially designed cottages and villas, providing residents with a wide range of choices for accommodation. Here, residents make the most out of their golden years with the community’s vibrant and inviting environment.

With a full calendar of enriching activities and extensive amenities, residents will not run out of things to do for leisure and wellness. Indulge in delightful and healthy meals through the community’s dining venues available all day. The community is equipped with a fireside bistro, a large community hall, a fitness center, an art studio, a library, and serene outdoor verandas, making it an enticing option for those looking to live independently in their golden years.

Contact The Cypress of Charlotte

Overview of The Willows at Raleigh

Welcome to The Willows at Raleigh, a haven of elegance and vitality nestled in Raleigh, NC. Here, luxurious living is intertwined with an invigorating community spirit. Choose from beautifully appointed studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments adorned with vaulted ceilings, gourmet kitchens, and exquisite modern amenities. Revel in the comfort of pet-friendly accommodations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and advanced safety features.

Indulge in a wealth of opulent amenities, including a plush movie theater, refined dining room, sophisticated bar, and serene outdoor courtyard. Embrace an active lifestyle with a state-of-the-art fitness center, a vibrant activity room, and impeccable bi-weekly housekeeping. With premium transportation services, attentive concierge support, and a rich array of engaging activities, The Willows at Raleigh offers a resplendent lifestyle where every day sparkles with joy and enrichment.

Contact The Willows at Raleigh

Overview of Arbor Ridge at Kernersville

Settled in the vibrant community of Kernersville, KC, the Arbor Ridge of Kernersville is a welcoming senior living community that offers independent living services. A wide range of spacious and comfortable accommodations, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and studio are available. Having a highly skilled and dedicated team, this community provides an emergency response system and 24/7 personalized care services.

With its top-notch amenities and services, residents can enjoy delectable meals and snacks daily, weekly housekeeping and laundry services, in-house maintenance services, and free transportation to all professional services. Engage in diverse social activities like wellness programs and community events. Meet new companions and share meaningful memories with the beautiful places of this community. At the Arbor Ridge at Kernersville, seniors can truly achieve a wonderful living experience.

Contact Arbor Ridge at Kernersville

Overview of Heritage Woods Senior Living

Heritage Woods Senior Living in Multnomah County, Winston-Salem, NC, is an excellent senior living community that offers independent living and assisted living services. The community makes sure residents enjoy a cozy and spotless residence with weekly housekeeping service, with fresh linens and towels, as well as daily tidy-up service. Residents enjoy round-the-clock care and assistance provided by the caring and hardworking care team of the community.

At Heritage Woods Assisted Living, residents are able to lead the lifestyle they desire with an abundance of opportunities for leisure, learning, and entertainment through a wide range of classes and activities. The community provides plenty of amenities and services for health & wellness, such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, a consultant pharmacist, balance and mobility programs, as well as personal training and wellness assessments. Residents’ nutritions and cravings are also handled with deliciously prepared meals, beverages, and snacks available anytime.

Contact Heritage Woods Senior Living

Overview of Givens Great Laurels

Givens Great Laurels is one of the four communities housed by Givens Communities. With the generosity of the Givens couple bringing this community to life, built to provide older adults affordable housing, especially in their retirement years. Gives Great Laurels boasts its commitment to help specifically the underserved seniors and allowing them to still live an independent life. Additionally, the staff are well-trained and professionals when it comes to providing assistance to the residents.

Aside from the standard services provided like assistance with daily tasks, there are also amenities like a fitness center, a library, a gazebo with seating, and more. These amenities are in place to ensure that the residents always find something to do and to keep themselves entertained. Furthermore, there are always events and activities, making sure that the stay at Givens Great Laurels will always be enjoyable.

Contact Givens Great Laurels

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 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

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
Who we are

Your Senior Care Partner, Every Step of the Way

We help families find affordable senior communities and unlock same day discounts, Medicaid, and Medicare options tailored to your needs.

Contact us Today

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.