Best Independent Living in Virginia

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 160 independent living communities in VA using VA Depts. of Social Services & Health data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in VA
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Virginia our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Virginia.
160 homes
Other senior care options in Virginia:
Avg Walk Score: 45/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Virginia. 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: 96The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Virginia. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Independent Living around Virginia

Info below is compiled from the VA Depts. of Social Services & Health, 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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
Share of inspections that resulted in deficiencies, expressed as a percentage of total inspections in the window.
Regulatory visits tied to complaints or allegations in the state file—not the same as every routine survey.
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.
The Fountains at Washington House
IL
AL
MC
Alexandria (Alexandria West)
215
Facility 215
VA AVG 96
Rank #14 / 365
Yes
66
Facility 66
VA AVG 45
Rank #76 / 434
Studio / 1 bed / 2 bedVictoria Baxter
32.6%
Facility 32.6%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #286 / 293
A+5
40%
Facility 40%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #73 / 330
6
Facility 6
VA AVG 32
Rank #48 / 271
1.2
Facility 1.2
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #68 / 271
Westminster Canterbury Richmond
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
Richmond
214
Facility 214
VA AVG 96
Rank #15 / 365
Yes
16
Facility 16
VA AVG 45
Rank #374 / 434
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed / 2-4 BedMs. Susan Chrissley
60.7%
Facility 60.7%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #209 / 293
A+5
0%
Facility 0%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #1 / 330
0
Facility 0
VA AVG 32
Rank #1 / 271
0.0
Facility 0.0
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #1 / 271
Cedarfield
IL
NH
AL
Richmond
157
Facility 157
VA AVG 96
Rank #38 / 365
Yes
11
Facility 11
VA AVG 45
Rank #405 / 434
1 Bed / 2 BedLauren Burnette
54.1%
Facility 54.1%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #236 / 293
A6
17%
Facility 17%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #22 / 330
6
Facility 6
VA AVG 32
Rank #48 / 271
1.0
Facility 1.0
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #55 / 271
The Wellington at Lake Manassas
IL
AL
MC
RC
Gainesville
140
Facility 140
VA AVG 96
Rank #51 / 365
Yes
44
Facility 44
VA AVG 45
Rank #212 / 434
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 BedBryan Lamartin
75.0%
Facility 75.0%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #133 / 293
-8
50%
Facility 50%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #96 / 330
6
Facility 6
VA AVG 32
Rank #48 / 271
0.8
Facility 0.8
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #43 / 271
The Estates at West End
IL
AL
MC
Richmond
105
Facility 105
VA AVG 96
Rank #126 / 365
No
65
Facility 65
VA AVG 45
Rank #81 / 434
Studio / 1 BedStephanie Quick
69.5%
Facility 69.5%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #168 / 293
-16
19%
Facility 19%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #25 / 330
8
Facility 8
VA AVG 32
Rank #62 / 271
0.5
Facility 0.5
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #28 / 271
Acclaim at East Beach
IL
AL
MC
Norfolk (East Ocean View)
92
Facility 92
VA AVG 96
Rank #175 / 365
Yes
55
Facility 55
VA AVG 45
Rank #149 / 434
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 BedDamian Polewczak
25.0%
Facility 25.0%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #290 / 293
-5
20%
Facility 20%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #26 / 330
4
Facility 4
VA AVG 32
Rank #35 / 271
0.8
Facility 0.8
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #43 / 271
Marian Manor Retirement
IL
AL
RC
Virginia Beach (Northwest)
145
Facility 145
VA AVG 96
Rank #49 / 365
No
51
Facility 51
VA AVG 45
Rank #167 / 434
Private RoomsMs. Karen Land
86.9%
Facility 86.9%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #66 / 293
-7
71%
Facility 71%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #217 / 330
16
Facility 16
VA AVG 32
Rank #113 / 271
2.3
Facility 2.3
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #140 / 271
The Estates at Charlottesville
IL
AL
MC
Charlottesville
100
Facility 100
VA AVG 96
Rank #139 / 365
No
34
Facility 34
VA AVG 45
Rank #269 / 434
Studio / 1 BedDavid Ter Borg
87.0%
Facility 87.0%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #64 / 293
-14
57%
Facility 57%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #143 / 330
10
Facility 10
VA AVG 32
Rank #82 / 271
0.7
Facility 0.7
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #39 / 271
St. Mary’s Woods
IL
AL
RC
Richmond
133
Facility 133
VA AVG 96
Rank #65 / 365
No
8
Facility 8
VA AVG 45
Rank #412 / 434
-Ms. Jotanya S Belton
96.2%
Facility 96.2%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #18 / 293
-8
25%
Facility 25%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #39 / 330
4
Facility 4
VA AVG 32
Rank #35 / 271
0.5
Facility 0.5
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #28 / 271
Viva Senior Living at Berryville
IL
AL
MC
RC
Berryville (Crown Estates)
66
Facility 66
VA AVG 96
Rank #260 / 365
Yes
32
Facility 32
VA AVG 45
Rank #288 / 434
Private / Companion SuiteVictoria Nelson
78.8%
Facility 78.8%
VA AVG 71%
Rank #115 / 293
-4
50%
Facility 50%
VA AVG 59.3%
Rank #96 / 330
5
Facility 5
VA AVG 32
Rank #44 / 271
1.3
Facility 1.3
VA AVG 2.3
Rank #76 / 271

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every VA community we track that reports that metric, not just the 160 on this page.

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Overview of The Fountains at Washington House

The Fountains at Washington offers a luxury lifestyle, setting a new standard for senior care. The vibrant community in Northern Virginia provides a wide range of services, including residential assisted living, independent living, and memory care support.  A hassle-free lifestyle is the goal of the old living home, ensuring residents can thrive and continue nurturing themselves in a warm, welcoming environment that feels exactly like home.

Residential living is enhanced thanks to the upscale amenities designed into the community; these include life enrichment programs, ADLs, restaurant-style dining, housekeeping, social activities, and transportation services. Amenities include a billiards room, a library, an on-site LUXE spa salon, and lush gardens. 

Contact The Fountains at Washington House

Overview of Westminster Canterbury Richmond

Westminster Canterbury Richmond has a spirit of retirement homes near me and offers a wealth of opportunities for learning, wellness, fun, and spiritual growth.  Residents enjoy engaging activities, cultural events, and social gatherings, all designed to promote fulfilment and connection.

The community itself is a haven for those seeking a carefree lifestyle.  Residents benefit from exceptional services and amenities, including delicious dining options, comprehensive healthcare services, and a world-class arts program featuring performances, classes, and studios.  An on-site Child Development Center even provides opportunities for intergenerational connection.

Westminster Canterbury Richmond is known for its commitment to resident well-being.  They offer various living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory support, and healthcare living, ensuring residents receive the care they need as their needs evolve. With a long history of excellence and a dedication to resident satisfaction, Westminster Canterbury Richmond is a top choice for seniors

Contact Westminster Canterbury Richmond

Cedarfield

2300 Cedarfield Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23233
Overview of Cedarfield

Cedarfield fosters a strong sense of community, with opportunities for connection and social engagement.  Their innovative Pathways to Wellness program empowers residents to reach their full potential through fitness classes, an aquatic centre, and an art studio.  The convenient location provides easy access to shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures.

Residents can choose from independent living cottages or apartments.  Cottages offer the privacy of a single-family home with upscale finishes and open layouts, while apartments boast spacious kitchens, high ceilings, and modern amenities.  Both options are pet-friendly and come with maintenance-free living, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their golden years. Cedarfield is committed to resident well-being throughout all stages of life.  For those needing additional support, Morning Glory, their on-site Memory Care program, provides compassionate care in a nurturing environment.

Contact Cedarfield

Overview of The Wellington at Lake Manassas

Burrowed in the serene neighborhood of Roanoke, VA, The Wellington at Lake Manassas is a dedicated senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. Here, residents can choose from a wide range of spacious and comfortable accommodations according to their tastes. Having a highly equipped and compassionate team, this community assures its residents with a service-enriched set of programs and services.

Discover its top-notch amenities and services including the fitness center with senior friendly equipment ranging from treadmills and resistance training to free weights and machines, emergency call systems, 24/7 healthcare services and many more. Moreover, avail of its concierge services such as transportation services to make the most out of your time participating in diverse social activities and community events. With the The Wellington at Lake Manassas, seniors can enjoy a living experience worth remembering.

Contact The Wellington at Lake Manassas

Overview of The Estates at West End

Burrowed in the charming neighborhood of Richmond, VA, Morningside in the West End is a delightful senior living community that offers assisted living, memory care, and respite care and short-term stays. Residents enjoy a comfortable living space with the community’s array of living options, including studios and one-bedroom apartments. Chores and maintenance are handled to give residents more time to enjoy and explore new things.

Morningside in the West End offers Five Star’s award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery Alzheimer’s and dementia care program to ensure residents dealing with memory loss are given the care and attention they require. Residents also enjoy plenty of social and recreational events as well as an array of amenities, such as a full-service barber and beauty salon, spacious activity center, and restaurant-style dining.

Contact The Estates at West End

Overview of Acclaim at East Beach

Pursuing an independent living program is made fruitful and enjoyable with Acclaim at East Beach. Committed to providing the life of relaxation and personal fulfillment, daily tasks that once consumed your off-work hours are a thing of the past at Acclaim, empowering residents to explore this bright, new world to their heart’s content and with the utmost safety. Take in the glamorous view of your new home in Norfolk, and dive into the community’s independent living calendar to see what adventures await; take on a new hobby, learn a new skill, or go for an actual dip in the pool as you rest and relax on a warm, sunny day.

Indulge in culinary delights from the comfort of your independent living home, with an on-site restaurant, bistro, private dining rooms and outdoor patios to savor fresh coffee or happy hours while getting to know fellow residents. Not feeling social? Meals can be grabbed to-go, and enjoyed from the comfort of your own abode. However you want the day to go, Acclaim has got you covered.

Contact Acclaim at East Beach

Overview of Marian Manor Retirement

Marian Manor Retirement occupies a mid-rise building on Marian Lane in the Northwest neighborhood of Virginia Beach, about 11.4 miles from the city center. The 145-bed community offers private rooms across three care types: assisted living, independent living, and respite care. Executive Director Ms. Karen Land leads the facility.

With 126 of 145 beds occupied, the community runs at 87% occupancy, which reflects consistent demand without the pressure of a fully waitlisted building. The neighborhood scores a 51 on the Walk Score scale, landing in the moderately walkable range; some trips on foot are practical, but a car handles most of what residents and visitors need. Transportation services are available on-site for those without their own vehicle.

Beyond transportation, the building includes fitness and recreation facilities, and a Life Enrichment program is part of the scheduled care structure. State inspections have generally focused on medication management, care planning and documentation, and fall and injury prevention as recurring areas of attention.

Marian Manor is a private-room community at a mid-size scale in Virginia Beach, covering the range from independent to assisted living and short-term respite stays, with on-site transportation and fitness amenities rounding out what the building offers day to day.

Contact Marian Manor Retirement

Overview of The Estates at Charlottesville

Tucked away in Charlottesville, VA, Morningside of Charlottesville is a warm and welcoming senior living community that offers assisted living and Five Star’s award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery memory care program for people dealing with Alzheimer’s. Featuring a range of accommodations, including studio and one-bedroom apartments, the community warrants a comfortable living space. Residents receive individualized attention from well-trained team members available 24/7.

The community ensures residents stay engaged with various recreational activities and programs. Morningside of Charlottesville’s close location to notable attractions, dining, shopping, and entertainment further enhances residents’ engagement, ensuring that they live a vibrant lifestyle. Residents also enjoy restaurant-style meals developed by a celebrity chef, with an emphasis on fresh selections, ensuring that they get the nourishment they require to stay healthy.

Contact The Estates at Charlottesville

Overview of St. Mary’s Woods

St. Mary’s Woods is a nonprofit senior living community administered by Jotanya S. Belton in Richmond, Virginia, offering assisted living, independent senior living apartments, and life enrichment programming. The community has been serving older adults since 1988, with 133 licensed beds. Its current occupancy is approximately 96%, which is notably higher than the Virginia statewide average of 85.7%. This indicates consistently strong demand and reflects its reputation and ongoing appeal.

The inspection record reflects a generally positive compliance history, with eight total inspections; only two resulted in any cited violations (25%), which is well below the Virginia average of 64.3%. Total deficiencies on record stand at four, significantly lower than the statewide average of 32. The most recent inspection, a complaint investigation conducted July 9, 2025, found zero deficiencies. Earlier complaint investigations were consistently unsubstantiated, while prior citations were largely documentation-related, involving matters such as annual resident rights reviews and care planning records, rather than direct care concerns. No fines or enforcement actions were reported.

This community distinguishes itself through its nonprofit standing with decades of operational history, and a programmatic focus that includes care and wellness services, life enrichment, dining, events, and volunteer engagement. Its longstanding presence in Richmond’s senior living market also provides families with a meaningful track record uncommon among newer communities.

St. Mary’s Woods is best suited for older adults seeking a well-regarded independent or assisted living setting in the Richmond area, particularly those who value an established nonprofit environment with a history of community involvement. Due to its consistently high occupancy rate, families are encouraged to inquire early about availability.

Contact St. Mary’s Woods

Viva Senior Living at Berryville

413 Mcclellan Street, Berryville, VA 22611
Overview of Viva Senior Living at Berryville

Experience the best of your golden years at Viva Senior Living at Berryville, a distinguished community in Berryville, VA, offering assisted living and memory care. Residents can keep their peace of mind with a kind and highly trained team providing top-tier care for their daily living activities and personal needs. With beautifully designed private and companion suites, residents are guaranteed comfort and safety.

Residents will not feel lonely with a thoughtfully curated calendar of enriching activities and engaging programs. Mealtimes foster comfort and satisfy dietary needs with delicious and healthy dining options. Medication management and an emergency call system are available for residents’ healthcare needs. With its pet-friendly setting, residents enjoy a blissful retirement.

Contact Viva Senior Living at Berryville

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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in Virginia

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 160 independent living communities in Virginia. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in Virginia?

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 Virginia, 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 Virginia?

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.