Best Independent Living in Portland, ME

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 16 independent living communities in Portland, ME using ME Dept. of Health & Human Services (DHHS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in ME
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Portland, ME our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Portland, ME.
16 homes
Other senior care options in Portland:
Avg Walk Score: 55/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Portland, ME. 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: 48The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Portland, ME. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around Portland (Metro Area)

Info below is compiled from the ME Dept. of Health & Human Services (DHHS), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking 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. ADC (Adult Day Care): Daytime supervision, health monitoring, and social activities for seniors who live at home.
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.
Description of bed or unit types offered (e.g. assisted living, memory care), as reported in state or facility disclosures.
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 named contact for the facility. Hover the name to see their role — Administrator (state administrator of record or facility-provided administrator), Nursing Director, Medical Director, or Staff. The most authoritative available is shown.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
How many inspections had one or more deficiencies recorded. Compare to total inspections to see how often problems were found on visit.
Total count of deficiencies (cited regulatory issues) recorded in the selected reporting period. Read alongside inspection counts for context.
The average number of deficiencies this facility receives each time it's inspected, calculated as total deficiencies ÷ total inspections. A lower number suggests more consistent compliance with safety and care standards.
Gorham House
IL
AL
MC
NH
RC
SNF
Gorham
69
Facility 69
ME AVG 20
Rank #35 / 356
No
64
Facility 64
ME AVG 36
Rank #63 / 357
Private Rooms 90.3% A--4
4
Facility 4
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #292 / 304
16
Facility 16
ME AVG 3
Rank #225 / 233
4.0
Facility 4.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #228 / 233
Lunder Memory Care at The Cedars
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (North Deering)
102
Facility 102
ME AVG 20
Rank #12 / 356
No
54
Facility 54
ME AVG 36
Rank #89 / 357
Private Rooms 76.0% ------
Avita of Stroudwater
IL
ADC
AL
MC
Westbrook
75
Facility 75
ME AVG 20
Rank #29 / 356
Yes
19
Facility 19
ME AVG 36
Rank #229 / 357
Studio / 1 Bed 88.0% A+Tracy Hoppe21
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #1 / 304
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 3
Rank #1 / 233
0.0
Facility 0.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #1 / 233
The Landing At Cape Elizabeth
IL
AL
MC
Cape Elizabeth (Pond Cove)
60
Facility 60
ME AVG 20
Rank #41 / 356
Yes
19
Facility 19
ME AVG 36
Rank #229 / 357
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed 96.7% -Deborah Riddell4
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #1 / 304
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 3
Rank #1 / 233
0.0
Facility 0.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #1 / 233
The Cedars Portland
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (North Deering)
-No
49
Facility 49
ME AVG 36
Rank #113 / 357
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed-A+-5
5
Facility 5
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #297 / 304
26
Facility 26
ME AVG 3
Rank #230 / 233
5.2
Facility 5.2
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #230 / 233
Seth Jordan House
IL
Portland (East End)
6
Facility 6
ME AVG 20
Rank #133 / 356
No
72
Facility 72
ME AVG 36
Rank #43 / 357
Private / Shared Rooms---6
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #1 / 304
--
Assisted Living Household at the Cedars
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (Back Cove)
44
Facility 44
ME AVG 20
Rank #61 / 356
No
87
Facility 87
ME AVG 36
Rank #14 / 357
- 77.3% -Katharine O'neill2
1
Facility 1
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #260 / 304
6
Facility 6
ME AVG 3
Rank #189 / 233
3.0
Facility 3.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #217 / 233
Auburn House
IL
Portland (North Deering)
7
Facility 7
ME AVG 20
Rank #128 / 356
No
41
Facility 41
ME AVG 36
Rank #146 / 357
----4
2
Facility 2
ME AVG 0.4
Rank #274 / 304
--
Bayside East
IL
Portland (East Bayside)
20
Facility 20
ME AVG 20
Rank #92 / 356
Yes
97
Facility 97
ME AVG 36
Rank #1 / 357
1 Bed-------
75 State Street
IL
AL
Portland (West End)
-Yes
97
Facility 97
ME AVG 36
Rank #1 / 357
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed-A+-----

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every ME community we track that reports that metric, not just the 16 analyzed for Portland.

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Overview of Gorham House

Gorham House is a hidden gem nestled in the peaceful town of Gorham, Maine. This exceptional residence offers a range of services to meet the unique needs of seniors, including assisted living homes, nursing home care, and memory care living. With a commitment to excellence, Gorham House ensures that residents receive the highest quality of care and support.

From weekly housekeeping services to convenient transportation options, Gorham House strives to create a worry-free lifestyle for residents. With fully staffed LPNs and RNs available 24 hours a day, the nursing home care provided is of the utmost quality. Gorham House has built a reputation for its dedication to nursing home quality measures, ensuring that residents receive top-notch care that exceeds industry standards. The home also offers a variety of floor plans to suit the preferences and requirements of residents. Whether it’s independent living, assisted living, or specialized memory care, seniors can find a living space that meets their specific needs and desires.

Contact Gorham House

Overview of Lunder Memory Care at the Cedars

While conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia come with a considerable amount of challenges with everyday life, a diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t lead a fulfilling life anymore. Understanding and building upon this, The Lunder Memory Care Household at Sam L. Cohen Households, a memory care facility at The Cedars in Portland, Maine, offers a secure and comfortable environment needed for memory care communities.

Ensuring that each resident receives personalized wellness programs that account for changing abilities and needs, The Cedars’ compassionate and professional staff offers the exact support that each resident deserves. Living arrangements are made safe, cozy, and respectful of privacy, while also providing spaces for socialization to foster a warm sense of community.

Contact Lunder Memory Care at The Cedars

Overview of Avita of Stroudwater

Providing a memory care living facility that seeks to enhance the years of those grappling with the challenges of illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, Avita of Stroudwater is committed to fostering the ideal memory care support environment for your near and dear. A welcoming staff fully-trained in assisting with memory care, from directors to culinary crew, residents can rest and go about their lives knowing that they are surrounded by dedicated and compassionate individuals that prioritize their wellbeing.

Once settled into a personalized care program, perks received include assistance with daily living activities, housekeeping services, and chef-curated meals, for the utmost comfort. With daily tasks taken care of, residents are able to focus on stimulating and holistic failure-free activities in solitude or among the community, maximizing their time and enjoyment.

Contact Avita of Stroudwater

The Landing At Cape Elizabeth

78 Scott Dyer Rd, Cape Elizabeth, Me 04107, United States78 Scott Dyer Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
Overview of The Landing at Cape Elizabeth

The Landing at Cape Elizabeth is a residential community in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It operates a 60-bed community set across a two-story building with studio, one-, and two-bedroom housing options. The home maintains a high 97 percent occupancy rate, with 58 of 60 beds currently filled.

The area scores 19 on the Walk Score scale, so most errands demand a car, which is typical of this Maine location. Visiting family members and occupants must plan for a car-dependent setting when considering the neighborhood.

With no deficiencies cited during the survey assessment, regulatory inspection records show that The Landing at Cape Elizabeth substantially complies with state assisted living program regulations.

For families interested in knowing more about daily programs, services, dining options, staffing details, or current availability here, an on-site tour is the best way to see the home firsthand and get answers to particular queries.

Contact The Landing At Cape Elizabeth

Overview of The Cedars Portland

Located in the bright and peaceful residential area of Ocean Avenue, Portland, ME, The Cedars goes above and beyond to deliver assisted living, independent living, memory care, skilled nursing, and short-term rehabilitation for residents to have the finest retirement. The community values residents’ privacy, providing a wide selection of cozy and well-designed floor plans to foster comfort and familiarity. With its long history of exceptional care and assistance since 1929, The Cedars continuously provides a safe place for residents to flourish and experience meaningful things.

Combining the utmost comfort and medical expertise, the community ensures residents’ needs and aspirations are well-cared for. As a non-profit community, The Cedars strives to provide accessible and up-to-date care to enjoy every moment of their best years.

Contact The Cedars Portland

Overview of Seth Jordan House

Cherish every moment of your best years at Seth Jordan House, a blissful retreat in Portland, ME, that offers assisted living. With high-quality assistance 24/7, residents do not have to worry about their daily living activities, like grooming and dressing. Cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks are also taken care of, ensuring residents have a hassle-free living.

Residents are encouraged to live actively and maintain social connections with a variety of recreational activities and wellness programs. Mealtimes also foster comfort and satisfy dietary needs with well-balanced dining options. Medication reminders are also provided to ensure residents take their medications as prescribed. The community strives to help residents thrive in retirement with its supportive environment and well-maintained amenities.

Contact Seth Jordan House

Overview of Assisted Living Household at the Cedars

Assisted Living Household at the Cedars is a 44-bed assisted living community located at 650 Ocean Avenue in Portland, Maine. Serving older adults in Cumberland County, the facility operates as part of a nonprofit retirement community offering a continuum of care that includes independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing.

The community currently maintains a 77% occupancy rate, with 34 of its 44 beds filled. This is below the Maine state average of 83.1%. Current figures indicate that the facility has available capacity to accommodate new admissions.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Certification, has conducted four inspections at this facility, which is below the state average of 10. An April 23, 2024, survey identified deficiencies involving missing consent forms, unclean refrigerators, bathrooms lacking call bells, and water temperatures exceeding allowed limits. A follow-up inspection on May 29, 2024, found the facility in substantial compliance with zero deficiencies. No fines, enforcement actions, or substantiated complaints appear in the records.

On-site services include rehabilitation, short-term rehab, and skilled nursing care. The facility operates under a nonprofit structure and a person-centered care model within the broader campus. Staffing ratios, payment options, and specific amenity counts are not publicly reported in the source data, so families should request this information during a tour.

This community suits families seeking assisted living within a nonprofit continuum-of-care campus. Families evaluating Assisted Living Household at the Cedars should confirm current Medicaid and payment options and verify staffing levels directly with the facility before making a placement decision.

Contact Assisted Living Household at the Cedars

Overview of Auburn House

Ideally situated in the quiet residential area of Portland, ME, Auburn House is a welcoming haven that offers assisted living. Here, residents can ease their worries with personalized care provided 24/7. Medication management and incontinence care are also provided for residents’ comfort and safety.

With a carefully curated calendar of enriching activities and exciting events, residents can interact with their surroundings and explore new hobbies. A variety of healthy dining options are served to meet residents’ nutritional needs and preferences. Transportation services are also available to ensure residents can travel conveniently and safely. The community continuously promotes a warm and nurturing environment, ensuring residents can maintain their independence in retirement without worries.

Contact Auburn House

Overview of Bayside East

Surrounded by delightful local amenities in Portland, ME, Bayside East is an exceptional community that offers independent living. The community is committed to enhancing the living experiences of those 55+, providing a variety of specially designed accommodations. 24-hour emergency maintenance, laundry, and management services are available, so residents have a hassle-free lifestyle.

Here, residents can spend their days as they please with plenty of local shops and recreation sites nearby. With a fully equipped kitchen, residents enjoy mealtimes that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. Promoting a vibrant and welcoming environment, the community creates the ideal setting for residents to flourish in retirement.

Contact Bayside East

Overview of 75 State Street

75 State Street is a vibrant community that excels in housing a professional care staff and convenient features all thought of to offer comfort and hospitality.  The senior living community boasts a serene environment that practices a resident-centered approach where they aim to enhance the standard of living of every senior. 75 State is a community that aims to mark a difference in the lives of its residents, serving with compassion, patience, and understanding. 

Life is focused on an active and fulfilled holistic wellness. Seniors are offered an array of services such as restaurant-style dining, walking paths, and private assisted living or independent living apartments designed to meet the needs of every resident.

Contact 75 State Street

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 Portland, ME

What is the average cost of independent living in Portland, ME?

The average monthly cost of independent living in Portland, ME is approximately $2,722. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.

What is the price range for independent living in Portland, ME?

Independent living in Portland, ME typically ranges from $1,760 - $4,422 per month, depending on the community, room type, and care needs.

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 16 independent living communities in Portland, ME. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in Portland, ME?

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 Portland, ME, 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 Portland, ME?

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.