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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 346 nursing homes in CA using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in CA
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.
ADC (Adult Day Care):
Daytime supervision, health monitoring, and social activities for seniors who live at home.
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.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
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.
$13.9M*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.
$12.0M*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.
85.8%*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.
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Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other CA nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 346 on this page. See how we rank facilities
Conveniently situated in the beautiful setting of Pleasant Hill, CA, Pleasant Hill Post Acute is an esteemed community that offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation. A kind and well-trained team strives to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences with exceptional care and dedicated assistance 24/7. With a nurturing and welcoming environment, residents are guaranteed to feel at ease and enjoy every moment of their golden years.
A jam-packed calendar of fun activities and engaging programs is also conducted to ensure residents thrive and gain meaningful experiences. Residents here have a delightful dining experience with delicious and healthy meals that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. Families are also encouraged to visit to ease residents’ loneliness and ensure they’re well-informed about their loved ones’ conditions. The community is ideal for those seeking exceptional care to begin their healing journey, especially with its state-of-the-art amenities.
Located in Santa Rosa, California, Santa Rosa Post-Acute is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a range of services, including nursing care, rehabilitation, and wound care. In addition to providing respite stays and hospice care, the facility distinguishes itself through a variety of social activities that contribute to a vibrant senior living experience.
Santa Rosa Post-Acute is backed by an exceptional team of professionals dedicated to bringing the comforts of home to its residents. With an on-site medical director overseeing and enhancing medical services, the facility prioritizes individualized resident care plans and treatments. The comprehensive offerings extend to laboratory testing, x-rays, a registered dietitian on staff, and available transportation services. Specialized care includes Alzheimer’s care, complemented by a robust restorative nursing program. This capable team ensures a wide range of healthcare services for seniors, aligning with nursing home requirements and fostering a supportive and enriching senior living environment.
Cupertino Healthcare & Wellness is a nursing home in Cupertino, CA, offering skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Promoting a compassionate and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults are well-cared for. With 24-hour care, nutritious meals, laundry, and transportation services, residents do not have to worry about their daily living activities. The community also focuses on a team-based approach with its multidisciplinary team, ensuring residents receive the utmost attention and care to live comfortably in retirement.
Pet therapy, group outings, and games are just some of the recreational programs that aim to provide residents with emotional support and encourage them to stay active. Residents can also relax and talk to friends in the spacious courtyard or beautiful patio areas. With its serene setting in the peaceful Cupertino neighborhood, residents experience a stress-free retirement. This nursing home has high standards of care and top-notch amenities, making it one of the best options for senior living in California.
Experience the dedicated care and warmth at Arlington Gardens Care Center in Riverside, CA, where exceptional support and a vibrant, compassionate environment come together to offer a truly enriching living experience. This community provides a comprehensive range of services, including short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing, ensuring that each resident receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. The committed team is passionate about providing quality support, creating an uplifting and joyful atmosphere. Residents can also select from thoughtfully designed, comfortable apartments that cater to their individual tastes.
With a variety of amenities and activities, including a spacious rehab gym and wellness programs, Arlington Gardens Care Center promotes connection and supports the emotional, mental, and physical health of residents. Each day is designed to bring joy and add meaning to residents’ lives, making it a wonderful place to call home.
Foothill Heights Care Center is a nursing home located in Pasadena, CA, providing rehabilitative and skilled nursing services, adult day and night care, as well as respite care. Part of these services include an array of therapy services, wound care and pain management, and psychiatric care. Their skilled nursing services provide their residents with 24/7 skilled nursing care, medication management, as well as assistance with daily living activities such as bathing and toileting, and dining and mobility or transfer assistance if needed. Residents are well taken care of at Foothill Heights Care Center. Meals are provided and prepared with consideration to the residents diets, housekeeping and laundry services are regularly provided to ensure cleanliness and safety of everyone, and physically and mentally stimulating activities are regularly scheduled to boost the residents physical and mental health, helping them gain back their independence.
Evergreen Life Care Homes provides nursing home care, skilled nursing, hospice care, memory care, and respite care in Fresno, CA. Nursing home and skilled nursing services provide licensed nursing care on site around the clock, while memory care offers a secured setting with supervision for a resident at risk of wandering. Hospice care supports a resident receiving care at the end of life, and respite care provides a short stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.
The community has 49 beds. Its combination of care levels may suit a resident whose needs change over time, or a family that needs short term care while a primary caregiver is away or recovering.
Total nurse staffing is 3 hours 25 minutes per resident per day, representing the amount of daily nurse staffing time allocated to each resident. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted; Medicare generally applies to skilled care for a limited period after a hospital stay, while Medicaid may help cover a longer stay when savings are limited. A Walk Score of 37 places the area where most errands require a car or a ride rather than being practical on foot. Pets are allowed, so residents can live with pets.
Capistrano Senior Living offers an upscale retirement living. It boasts an exceptionally vibrant assisted living home in San Juan because of the unparalleled standard of care in their accommodations and staff and the overall joy of the residents. Offering continuum care services, seniors can access comprehensive services that deliver a results-driven approach to fast recovery. The picturesque surroundings and top-level senior care are the pillars of their outstanding level of service, inspiring them to live life to the fullest.
With an emphasis on assisted living services, the cozy home provides all-inclusive amenities to help residents stay active and relaxed. From exercising in their cutting-edge wellness programs from their fitness center to a gourmet meal in their grand dining room– the community is a buzzing social community. Specialized services are tailored to the holistic needs of residents of independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing care.
Discover the inviting atmosphere of Bayshire Rancho Mirage in Rancho Mirage, CA, a premier community where vibrant living and outstanding care come together. Offering independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care services, this community provides personalized support to meet each resident’s unique needs. Residents can enjoy stylish and comfortable studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Ideally located near shopping and recreational areas, the community strikes the perfect balance between tranquility and convenience.
This vibrant community offers a range of enriching amenities, including a heated outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Residents can participate in various activities that match their interests and foster a strong sense of community. At Bayshire Rancho Mirage, every day is filled with joy, comfort, and a commitment to exceptional living.
Located in Yorba Linda, CA, Bayshire Yorba Linda is a classic senior living community designed to provide an array of care options, including assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Focused on helping residents comfortably age in place, the community offers a wide array of services provided by a team of compassionate and reliable care experts. Bright and spacious residences with convenient in-house amenities are offered to every resident, giving them a space they can call their own and personalize according to their preferences and needs.
With round the clock supervision from a reliable team, residents maintain their peace of mind knowing that their needs and emergencies are met with immediate attention. Residents also enjoy an array of life enrichment activities, programs and special events that gives them opportunities for leisure and recreation. The community also provides residents with other services, like mobile physician, podiatry and dental services for added convenience.
Eskaton Care Center Greenhaven is a nursing home and skilled nursing facility in Sacramento, CA, with respite care for short-term stays. Skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock, while respite care gives families a temporary care arrangement when a usual caregiver needs time away. Rehabilitation services and short-term rehab support residents who need rehabilitation during a temporary recovery stay.
Opened in 1986, the center has 148 beds. Total nurse staffing is 4h 36m per resident per day, representing the daily hands-on nursing time allocated to each resident. Staff are available 24 hours a day, so assistance is available at any hour.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted, giving families those payment routes for eligible care. Transportation is available through the center, and a doctor is on staff for physician involvement within the care setting. Respite care may be a good fit for a family whose usual caregiver needs a short-term arrangement while traveling or recovering.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports. Rank badges compare each home against other nursing homes in the same state — never against assisted living, memory care, or independent living communities.
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 California
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 346 nursing homes in California. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in California?
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 California, 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 California?
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
Nursing Homes in California at a glance
Avg Overall CMS Rating:3.1/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in California. 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:3.1/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in California. 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:2.8/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in California. 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
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