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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 11 nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in CA
Video Tour: Top-rated Nursing Homes facilities in Bakersfield, California.
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Avg Overall CMS Rating:1.5/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating:2.9/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating:1.3/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.0/ 5
Compare Nursing Homes around Bakersfield (Metro Area)
Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the CA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.
Communities are listed from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.
The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This TableAL (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.
HOS (Hospice Care):
Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
PC (Palliative Care):
Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community):
A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The California average is: 61.1% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
$11.4M*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
$5.6M*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
49.4%*Fiscal year ending 12/2022These figures are from this home's most recent complete cost report — an older period than most facilities report. Compare with that in mind.
Rank badges are statewide: each nursing home is ranked against every CA nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 11 analyzed for Bakersfield. See how we rank facilities
Spend your golden years at Rosewood, an esteemed life plan community nestled near Sundale Country Club in Bakersfield, CA, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Residents can ease their worries with a kind and highly trained team attending to their needs around the clock. As part of a non-profit organization, the community prioritizes residents’ safety and well-being.
Residents will not feel lonely with a carefully curated calendar of exciting events and engaging programs that highlight residents’ interests and capabilities. Mealtimes promote social interactions and satisfy dietary needs with delightful and healthy dining options. The community ensures residents live a blissful retirement with its extensive amenities and a wide range of care options.
Overview of San Joaquin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Located in the neighborhood of Bakersfield, CA, San Joaquin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a compassionate senior care provider, offering skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation services. Designed to help residents recover successfully from their conditions or hospitalization, the community provides a reliable and compassionate team of caregivers and nurses that oversee residents’ personalized care plans. Offering access to physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapies, the community ensures residents are able to maintain or regain their strength and functionality.
Residents here are also offered an engaging daily schedule of activities to keep them motivated, happy, and entertained as they go through their recovery journey. Spacious common areas and refreshing courtyards are also available to give residents a serene space for connecting with others or enjoying their free time idylling around. The community also offers help and support to residents and families to prepare for life after discharge, making sure they transition back to their usual routines smoothly.
Focusing on seniors’ wellness, Brookdale Riverwalk located at Calloway Drive, Bakersfield, CA is an extraordinary continuing care retirement community offering a wide range of living options. These include assisted living, independent living, memory care, and skilled care. The community provides a selection of spacious and well-designed floor plans including studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, and private, and companion suites.
Experience a better quality of life with Brookdale Riverwalk’s dedicated and compassionate community. The community promotes an active and engaged lifestyle, conducting fun activities and wellness programs. Brookdale Riverwalk promises to deliver the highest quality of life that befits its residents, providing them with an environment where they can thrive confidently. Delight with delectable and nutritious meals served to satisfy the resident’s dietary needs and to promote socialization. Brookdale Riverwalk provides fabulous amenities including a library, a game room, a therapy room, a greenhouse, a beauty and barbershop, an outdoor pool, and walking paths, for its residents’ leisure and wellness.
Set amidst the serene neighborhood of Bakersfield, CA, Height Street Skilled Care is a peaceful senior living community designed to cater to residents who are recovering from illness or hospitalization. The community provides residents a safe healing environment with access to an array of services, including skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation and long term care. A compassionate and reliable care and security team is always available to make sure residents are comfortable and secure as they go through their recovery process.
At Height Street Skilled Care, they only employ highly-trusted and skilled employees to make sure residents are provided with excellent services. Residents’ wishes and preferences are also carefully considered when creating their care plans to ensure their usual interests and routines are incorporated into their recovery journey. With extensive services and a home-like atmosphere, residents are guaranteed to enjoy a speedy recovery.
Burrowed within a charming area in Bakersfield, CA, The Orchards Post-Acute is a dependable senior care provider, offering short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. This care community features 150 units of thoughtfully designed accommodations tailored to accommodate its residents’ unique needs. Featuring a reliable team of care experts, the community ensures residents are provided with the services they need to recover quickly from their conditions or hospitalization.
Individualized care plans are made based on residents’ care requirements and preferences to make sure they receive the appropriate care and support throughout their healing journey. Skilled nurses are available day and night to provide immediate attention should residents need them, giving them ease and peace of mind. Here, everyone is provided with an all-encompassing care so they can get back to doing the things they love as soon as possible.
Kern River Transitional Care is a dedicated nursing home in Bakersfield, CA, that offers skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation. The community promotes a nurturing and welcoming environment, ensuring older adults are well-cared for. Residents also receive the right care for their needs with 24-hour care, assistance with personal hygiene, and social services. Through a resident-centered approach, the community strives to provide exceptional standards of care to help improve residents’ quality of life.
Themed events, light exercises, and various games provide residents with more opportunities to interact with friends and gain meaningful experiences. An expansive rehabilitation gym, spacious courtyards, and cozy communal spaces also help enrich residents’ living experiences. With its ideal location near the 99 freeway and Olive Drive in Bakersfield, residents have convenient travel access. This nursing home is one of the best options for senior living in California, especially with its high-quality care.
Overview of The Rehabilitation Center of Bakersfield
The Rehabilitation Center of Bakersfield is a newly renovated nursing home in Bakersfield, CA, that offers rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Here, older adults can keep their peace of mind, accompanied by its supportive and inviting environment. Exceptional services, including 24-hour care, pain management, and nutritional services, are also provided to enrich residents’ living experiences. The community also strives to understand residents’ needs and preferences with personalized care plans.
Group outings, fitness classes, and live entertainment are among the activities that residents can participate in to stay active and learn new things. Residents can also relax in the spacious courtyard and cozy communal spaces. Serene parks, bus stops, and other local amenities also surround the area, ensuring accessibility and convenience. This nursing home is a good option for senior living in California, especially with its excellent services dedicated to older adults’ welfare.
Nestled in Bakersfield, California, Bakersfield Post Acute is a dependable senior care provider that offers an excellent array of rehabilitation and long-term care services. They feature a reliable team of professionals to care for residents after their surgery, illness, or injury, helping them enjoy a speedy recovery. The community provides each resident with comfortable accommodations that give them the comfort and privacy they need to heal, combined with round the clock care from skilled and dependable nurses.
At Bakersfield Post Acute, they strive to create an environment where residents can stay for as long as they need to heal successfully with all the comforts of home and the convenience of excellent care services. The community also conducts a wide variety of activities to make sure residents stay active and engaged. Residents are also offered support after their discharge to make sure they can safely return to their home and routines.
Valley Healthcare in Bakersfield, CA, is a nursing home that has comprehensive care options, including short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. The community fosters comfort and healing with its warm and supportive environment. With 24-hour assistance, well-balanced meals, and therapy services, residents have a worry-free living. Here, residents’ needs are prioritized, so personalized care is created dedicated to improving their quality of life.
Residents can make friends and explore interests through social events, light exercises, and recreational activities. Thoughtfully designed living spaces and accessible communal areas ensure residents can move around and rest without hassles. Situated in the quiet residential area in Bakersfield, near restaurants and shops, the community ensures residents have quick access to their necessities and leisure. This nursing home is ideal for senior living in California, as it has high-quality services that aim to help older adults live to their potential in retirement.
Parkview Julian Nursing & Rehab is a compassionate nursing home in Bakersfield, CA, that offers short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. With its supportive environment, the community ensures older adults can keep their peace of mind during their stay. Restaurant-style dining, 24-hour assistance, and transportation services are among the high-quality services offered to improve residents’ quality of life. Through personalized care plans, the community strives to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences.
Light exercises, social events, and games help residents try new hobbies and make friends. Cozy living spaces and lively gathering areas are also available for residents’ relaxation and wellness. The area is also filled with bus stops, parks, and other shops, ensuring residents have easy access to their needs and leisure. This nursing home is a good option for senior living in California, especially with its dedicated services and well-maintained amenities.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.
How we're paid:If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Bakersfield, CA
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in California?
Assisted living in California is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.
Does California Medicaid cover nursing home care?
Yes — California Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.
What is nursing home care?
Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.
How many nursing homes are listed on this page?
This page features 11 nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in Bakersfield, CA?
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 Bakersfield, CA, 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 nursing homes in Bakersfield, CA?
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.
If you move into a community through us, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never changes your cost or which options we recommend. Learn more
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