Page 7 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.
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.
Housing or bed configuration options (e.g. studio, shared), often from facility-reported amenities and licensing details.
Briar Creek Health Center at The Barclay at SouthPark
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
RC
SNF
S Charlotte (Beverly Woods)
6
Facility 6
NC AVG 70
Rank #60 / 62
No
30
Facility 30
NC AVG 34
Rank #79 / 142
76.7%
Facility 76.7%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #23 / 39
-?Studio / 1 Bed
Croasdaile Village
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
SNF
Durham
64Yes
3
Facility 3
NC AVG 34
Rank #135 / 142
--A-
Abernethy Laurels
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
RC
SNF
Newton
174
Facility 174
NC AVG 70
Rank #3 / 62
Yes-
90.5%
Facility 90.5%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #10 / 39
-?1 Bed /2 Bed
Independence Village of Olde Raleigh
IL
HOS
Raleigh (Northwest Raleigh)
-Yes
67
Facility 67
NC AVG 34
Rank #7 / 142
-A+-Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
The Cardinal at North Hills
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Raleigh (North Hills)
15
Facility 15
NC AVG 70
Rank #59 / 62
Yes
62
Facility 62
NC AVG 34
Rank #11 / 142
63.3%
Facility 63.3%
NC AVG 72.6%
Rank #27 / 39
-B+-
Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Raleigh (North Raleigh)
-Yes
29
Facility 29
NC AVG 34
Rank #84 / 142
-A+-Alcove / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Cambridge Village of Apex
IL
Apex
-Yes
36
Facility 36
NC AVG 34
Rank #63 / 142
-A+-1 Bed/ 2 Bed
Holiday Forsyth Court
IL
HC
Winston-Salem
-Yes
55
Facility 55
NC AVG 34
Rank #31 / 142
-A+-Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Holiday Cedar Ridge
IL
Burlington (Greenbrier)
-Yes
43
Facility 43
NC AVG 34
Rank #54 / 142
-A+-Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
Kingston Residence of Hickory
IL
AL
RC
Hickory
-Yes
62
Facility 62
NC AVG 34
Rank #11 / 142
---Studio

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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Overview of Briar Creek Health Center at the Barclay at SouthPark

Enjoy a seamless transition between care levels in Briar Creek Health Center at the Barclay at SouthPark, a distinguished community in Charlotte, NC offering an array of care services. They provide access to assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing under one campus. The community also offers respite care to help family caregivers who need a break from caring for their loved ones, giving them their much-deserved rest and vacation.

With personalized care plans, daily living assistance, and personal care support, residents find plenty of free time to enjoy their passions and make new friends. Housekeeping services are also offered so residents can fully enjoy the community’s vibrant activities and thoughtful amenities like a salon and cozy sun room. At Briar Creek Health Center at the Barclay at SouthPark, residents are inspired and equipped to live their golden years fully.

Contact Briar Creek Health Center at The Barclay at SouthPark

Croasdaile Village

2600 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy, Durham, NC 27705
Overview of Croasdaile Village

Croasdaile Village is the ideal backdrop for a fulfilling and delightful retirement in Durham’s vibrant embrace. Set against the former dairy farm spanning over 100 acres, this assisted living community blends the serenity of rural surroundings seamlessly with the convenience of urban living. Croasdaile Village’s expansive campus caters to a diverse community. The allure lies not only in the sprawling open spaces but also in the sought-after location of Durham itself.
For senior residents at Croasdaile, the vista of native hardwoods, meadows, and the tranquil private lake unfolds from maintained walking paths—a serene panorama capturing North Carolina’s splendor. Here, a newfound sense of liberation blossoms, where the avenues for camaraderie and personal fulfillment are limitless. At Croasdaile Village, the power to shape days around passions and happiness becomes a reality, ushering in an era of boundless opportunity and cherished companionship with farm-to-table dining experiences, world-renowned museums, and captivating sporting events, the community revels in the best Durham offers. Yet, above all, it’s the strong sense of belonging that genuinely transforms Croasdaile Village into a cherished home.

Contact Croasdaile Village

Abernethy Laurels

102 Leonard Ave, Newton, NC 28658
Overview of Abernethy Laurels

Set on the scenic lands of Leonard Avenue, Newton, NC, Abernethy Laurels is a trusted Continuing Care Retirement Community that offers a wide array of care options including assisted living, independent living, memory care, long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services. Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience with meticulously designed and well-built residences of Abernethy Laurels in varied studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans. With its dedication to seniors’ well-being, the community strives to deliver top-tier care and assistance tailored to their special needs and preferences.

Optimize your independence and enjoy the things you love through engaging activities and exciting events. Abernethy Laurels values residents’ choices, considering their interests in every aspect of their stay on its premises. Have the finest dining experience with delicious and healthy meals catering to nutritional needs and tastes. With its inviting spaces and tranquil landscapes, Abernethy Laurels is ideal for seniors looking to live a meaningful retirement.

Contact Abernethy Laurels

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

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 Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community

Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community invites residents to experience a truly exceptional lifestyle in a setting that embraces the beauty of nature. With a refreshing atmosphere and thoughtful design, Springmoor offers a unique and engaging living experience for retirees. Nestled in a mild climate, Springmoor provides the perfect backdrop for a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Whether a villa, home, or apartment, one can find a variety of floor plans to suit particular preferences and needs.

Seniors can enjoy chef-prepared meals and personalized diets, as well as access to hair, nail, and massage services for added indulgence. Spiritual services are available to nourish one’s soul, and a plethora of amenities, including a library, movie theater, private chapel, greenhouse, and indoor pool, provide endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. With around-the-clock security measures, families can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safe and secure. 

Contact Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community

Overview of Cambridge Village of Apex

Cambridge Village of Apex is the premier senior living community that promotes a youthful and energetic atmosphere for seniors seeking to retire in a high-spirit community. The independent living home has well-thought-of ways in which to make each resident’s experience hassle-free; they celebrate each individual, and the staff wants to promote their individuality by letting them do whatever it is that interests them. At Cambridge Village, experience first-hand of having big-city energy with small-town charm.

Cambridge Village prides itself on the comprehensive amenities that provide comfort and an untroubled stay. Highlighted features of their all-inclusive amenities and services include a library, a swimming pool, gardens, a theater room, housekeeping and linen, transportation services, daily activities, and programs. 

Contact Cambridge Village of Apex

Overview of Holiday Forsyth Court

Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Holiday Forsyth Court is an independent living community. The home offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans, housed in a three-story building. Residents can choose the amount of space and privacy.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 55. Some errands and activities are within walking distance, but many trips require a car. For families and visitors, this setting can work well when proximity to shops or services is balanced with a quieter, more residential feel.

Taking a tour of Holiday Forsyth Court can give families the best sense of the home’s daily environment, the dining and activity options, and how the floor plans work for your family’s needs. This could be especially useful with independent living, where the daily rhythm and social offerings shape the quality of life as much as the physical setting.

Contact Holiday Forsyth Court

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 Kingston Residence of Hickory

Kingston Residence of Hickory is one of the trusted homes in the area, offering a top-notch level of assisted living and independent living services. The results-driven environment of the community boasts an innovative and modern approach to senior care. Management and the team of professional caregivers understand the unique needs of each individual and aim to enrich a fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.

The Kingston Residence lifestyle is focused on growth and enrichment; they provide essential amenities and services, such as 24/7 care and supervision, an on-site nurse practitioner, recreational activities, enriching programs, guest rooms, respite stays, and wellness support services.

Contact Kingston Residence of Hickory

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.