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:

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-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. 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 47
Rank #13 / 43
No
64
Facility 64
ME AVG 46
Rank #19 / 69
Private Rooms
90.3%
Facility 90.3%
ME AVG 87%
Rank #13 / 28
A--4
4
Facility 4
ME AVG 1.3
Rank #27 / 30
16
Facility 16
ME AVG 3
Rank #28 / 30
4.0
Facility 4.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #24 / 30
Lunder Memory Care at The Cedars
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (North Deering)
102
Facility 102
ME AVG 47
Rank #5 / 43
No
54
Facility 54
ME AVG 46
Rank #24 / 69
Private Rooms
76.0%
Facility 76.0%
ME AVG 87%
Rank #24 / 28
------
Assisted Living Household at the Cedars
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (Back Cove)
44
Facility 44
ME AVG 47
Rank #22 / 43
No
87
Facility 87
ME AVG 46
Rank #7 / 69
-
77.3%
Facility 77.3%
ME AVG 87%
Rank #23 / 28
-Katharine O'neill2
1
Facility 1
ME AVG 1.3
Rank #9 / 30
6
Facility 6
ME AVG 3
Rank #22 / 30
3.0
Facility 3.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #22 / 30
Avita of Stroudwater
IL
ADC
AL
MC
Westbrook
75
Facility 75
ME AVG 47
Rank #11 / 43
Yes
19
Facility 19
ME AVG 46
Rank #55 / 69
Studio / 1 Bed
88.0%
Facility 88.0%
ME AVG 87%
Rank #14 / 28
A+Tracy Hoppe1
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 1.3
Rank #1 / 30
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 3
Rank #1 / 30
0.0
Facility 0.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #1 / 30
The Landing At Cape Elizabeth
IL
AL
MC
Cape Elizabeth (Pond Cove)
60
Facility 60
ME AVG 47
Rank #14 / 43
Yes
19
Facility 19
ME AVG 46
Rank #55 / 69
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
96.7%
Facility 96.7%
ME AVG 87%
Rank #10 / 28
-Deborah Riddell1
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 1.3
Rank #1 / 30
0
Facility 0
ME AVG 3
Rank #1 / 30
0.0
Facility 0.0
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #1 / 30
The Cedars Portland
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Portland (North Deering)
-No
49
Facility 49
ME AVG 46
Rank #31 / 69
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed-A+-5
5
Facility 5
ME AVG 1.3
Rank #29 / 30
26
Facility 26
ME AVG 3
Rank #29 / 30
5.2
Facility 5.2
ME AVG 0.2
Rank #26 / 30
Bayside East
IL
Portland (East Bayside)
20
Facility 20
ME AVG 47
Rank #28 / 43
Yes
97
Facility 97
ME AVG 46
Rank #1 / 69
1 Bed-------
75 State Street
IL
AL
Portland (West End)
-Yes
97
Facility 97
ME AVG 46
Rank #1 / 69
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed-A+-----
Holiday Woods at Canco
IL
Portland (Back Cove)
-Yes
41
Facility 41
ME AVG 46
Rank #37 / 69
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / Cottage-------
Seth Jordan House
IL
Portland (East End)
6
Facility 6
ME AVG 47
Rank #32 / 43
No
72
Facility 72
ME AVG 46
Rank #15 / 69
Private / Shared Rooms----0--

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each independent living community is ranked against every other ME independent living community we track that reports that metric, not just the 16 analyzed for Portland. See how we rank facilities

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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 offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care in Cape Elizabeth, ME. Assisted living includes help with dressing, bathing, and medication while the resident keeps an apartment; independent living offers private living with community services and no daily care; memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering.

The community has 60 beds in the Pond Cove neighborhood, with studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom residences. Having several care levels on one campus can suit a resident whose needs grow over time, since moving between care levels can happen without leaving the community; pets are allowed, and Deborah Riddell serves as the administrator.

Contact The Landing At Cape Elizabeth

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 Assisted Living Household at the Cedars

Assisted Living Household at the Cedars offers assisted living, independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing in Portland, ME. Assisted living provides help with daily tasks while a resident maintains an apartment, independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care, memory care provides a secured setting with supervision, and skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock.

Because these care levels are available within one community, a resident whose needs grow may be able to move to a different level of care without leaving the community or starting over socially. The 44-bed community is smaller in scale, where staff and residents get to know each other, and it may suit someone who prefers a smaller setting. The community opened in 1929.

Rehabilitation services include short-term rehab, giving someone who needs recovery-focused care a temporary stay rather than an ongoing residence. A Walk Score of 87 places the area in the very walkable band, so most errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives can still get out independently.

Assisted Living Household at the Cedars is administered by Katharine O’neill.

Contact Assisted Living Household at the Cedars

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 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 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 Seth Jordan House

Seth Jordan House is an independent living community in Portland, ME. Independent living provides private living with community services rather than daily care, and the six bed setting allows staff and residents to get to know each other, which may suit someone who prefers a more intimate setting.

Housing includes private and shared rooms, giving a resident the choice of a single private space or a room shared with a companion. In the East End neighborhood, the area has a Walk Score of 72, meaning it is very walkable and most errands can be done on foot, allowing a resident who no longer drives to get out independently.

Contact Seth Jordan House

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

Overview of Loring House Apartments

Create unforgettable moments in retirement at Loring House Apartments, an astounding community in Portland, ME, offering independent living. The community has beautifully furnished and cozy studio and one-bedroom floor plans, ensuring that those 62+ can find the accommodation that best matches their preferences. Dedicated to those with low incomes, the community strives to maintain affordability.

Residents will not run out of things to do with local amenities and recreation sites nearby. Delightful restaurants also provide residents with a variety of well-balanced dining options that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. Pets are also allowed to accompany residents to ease their loneliness. The community’s warm and inviting environment makes it an enticing option for those looking to live independently in their golden years.

Contact Loring House Apartments

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 Portland at a glance

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
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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.