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
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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

Overview of Givens Gerber Park

Givens Gerber Park is a supportive, independent living, senior rental community where older adults can thrive. Offering a broader range of resources than typical rental retirement communities, Givens Gerber Park empowers residents to explore new opportunities and navigate their next adventure confidently.

Located in vibrant South Asheville, residents enjoy peace of mind and abundant amenities, fostering an active and fulfilling lifestyle. At Givens Gerber Park, residents can enjoy enriching activities and enjoy convenient amenities, including a wellness clinic, fitness center, and communal spaces. From growing vegetables in raised garden beds to socializing in cafes or libraries, residents lead purposeful lives within a supportive community.

Contact Givens Gerber Park

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

Porters Neck Village

1200 Porters Neck Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411
Overview of Porters Neck Village

Porters Neck Village, situated in Wilmington, NC, stands as a comprehensive senior living community providing independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services. Porters Neck Village offers spacious and modern accommodations with open floor plans, spacious closets, and full-sized kitchens featuring quartz/granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Each home is designed with abundant storage and offers breathtaking views, creating a comfortable and visually appealing living space.

The community provides a range of amenities to enhance the overall well-being and lifestyle of its residents. Porters Neck Village boasts apartments with water views, a bar and bistro for social gatherings, a wellness center to support residents’ health, and a heated saltwater pool for relaxation. The state-of-the-art fitness center caters to residents’ physical well-being, while the renovated library offers a tranquil space for intellectual enrichment. Additionally, the 375-seat auditorium provides a venue for performances and guest lectures, contributing to a vibrant and engaging community of Porters Neck Village.

Contact Porters Neck Village

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 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

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 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

Overview of Bella Vista Gracious Retirement Living

Bella Vista Gracious Retirement Living is an independent living community on Piney Mountain Drive in Asheville, North Carolina. The mid-rise residence has three housing options: studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans, to accommodate varying preferences and household sizes. The Asheville location scores 13 on the Walk Score ladder, signifying a car-dependent area where most errands and daily activities demand a vehicle. The surrounding setting reflects the car-reliant suburban nature of the neighborhood.

For families thinking of independent living in Asheville, Bella Vista Gracious Retirement Living offers a residential option in the area. More details about daily activities, dining, amenities, and community life would help finalize your decision amid an in-person tour.

Contact Bella Vista Gracious Retirement Living

Overview of Atria Oakridge

A cozy and warm senior living community located in Sandy Oak Lane, Raleigh, NC, Atria Oakridge offers independent living. The community fosters meaningful and strong relationships with trusted partners to provide a better quality of care, featuring physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Promoting an active lifestyle for its residents, the community provides spacious one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans inclusive of kitchens, and basic amenities. Experience a maintenance-free lifestyle with Atria Oakridge.

Atria Oakridge strives to enhance the senior’s quality of life, orchestrating educational, social, cultural, and fitness programs. Residents enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily at different dining venues. Amenities include pet-friendly spaces, a sports lounge, off-site pool privileges, an onsite physician office space, a library, a movie theater, a fitness center, a physical therapy center, a salon and spa, a media room, a game room, a putting green, a resident garden, peaceful walking paths, and a sunlit patio for seniors’ relaxation and welfare.

Contact Atria Oakridge

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
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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.