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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.
PC (Palliative Care):
Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
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.
Lake Merritt Senior Living LLC And Calson Care Oakland
$2.0M*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.
$6.0M*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.
299.8%*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
Perfectly set in the serene neighborhood of El Cajon, CA, Villa Las Palmas Healthcare Center is committed to improving seniors’ quality of life with skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. The community strives to meet seniors’ special needs and aspirations with top-notch care and assistance from a team of compassionate and highly trained professionals 24/7. Seniors enjoy a worry-free lifestyle knowing a trusted community has their backs.
Featuring a wide array of incredible amenities, the community encourages residents to interact with their surroundings and live an active lifestyle. Moreover, visiting family and friends can enjoy the refreshing breeze in the community’s beautiful courtyards. Villa Las Palmas Healthcare Center goes above and beyond to create a safe place where seniors flourish and live their lives to the fullest.
Creekside Center, located in the serene surroundings of Stockton, CA, is a facility that provides unparalleled skilled nursing services to patients in need of post-acute medical and rehabilitation care. With a commitment to excellence, Creekside Center specializes in providing comprehensive support to patients dealing with a myriad of conditions, including pulmonary impairment, diabetes management, wound care, joint replacement, orthopedic injuries, stroke, neurological disorders, cardiac-related problems, and cancer. The facility’s experienced medical professionals employ cutting-edge techniques and personalized treatment plans to facilitate patients’ recovery journeys, ensuring optimal health and well-being.
Creekside Center takes pride in its inviting atmosphere, offering spacious private and semi-private rooms that are fully air-conditioned, providing patients with a comfortable and tranquil space to focus on their recovery. To enhance the overall well-being of residents, the facility provides a range of amenities, including grooming services, ensuring residents can maintain their self-esteem and dignity. Creekside Center also offers housekeeping and laundry services, allowing patients to focus solely on their recovery without worrying about daily chores. Additionally, the facility ensures the dietary needs of patients are met, accommodating special dietary restrictions and offering expertly prepared meals and services, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to healing and recovery.
Anaheim Crest Nursing Center is a nursing home in Anaheim, CA, offering comprehensive skilled nursing and rehabilitation. With its supportive setting, the community ensures older adults are treated well during their stay. A specialized Korean care unit, therapies, and well-balanced meals are also provided to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences. Individualized care plans are also created for each resident to ensure their recovery and wellness.
Fun gatherings and recreational activities allow residents to make friends and gain meaningful experiences. Families are also encouraged to visit their loved ones to prevent loneliness. West Anaheim Medical Center, Anaheim Medical Plaza, and bus stops are also available in the area, providing residents with quick access to their necessities. Dedicated to older adults’ well-being, this nursing home is one of the best choices for senior living in California.
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.
Nestled in Clovis, California, Willow Creek Healthcare Center provides a welcoming and secure environment, ensuring seniors receive top-notch skilled nursing home care. Strategically located off N. Willow Ave., the facility offers convenient accessibility, creating a hassle-free experience for residents and their families. Willow Creek stands out with its state-of-the-art and spacious rehab gym, providing cutting-edge rehabilitation services to support residents on their journey to better health.
In addition to the skilled nursing services, the facility boasts inviting outdoor spaces, including courtyards and common areas, fostering a perfect setting for socialization and community engagement. Willow Creek Healthcare Center is not just a skilled nursing facility. It’s a well-designed space that meets senior living standards and nursing home requirements, offering seniors a thoughtful and comprehensive option for their healthcare needs.
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.
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.
Overview of Palm Terrace Healthcare & Rehab Center
Palm Terrace Healthcare & Rehab Center is a well-regarded nursing home in Laguna Hills, CA, offering rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Committed to older adults’ comfort and healing, the community continuously promotes a supportive and welcoming environment. With 24-hour care, nutritious meals, and recreational activities, residents receive high-quality services that aim to help them focus on recovery. The community also works closely with residents, their families, and healthcare providers to provide the best possible care based on their needs and preferences.
Local trips, lecture series, and ice cream socials encourage residents to continue learning and make friends. Specially designed living spaces and top-notch rehabilitation equipment are also available for residents’ relaxation and wellness. Situated in the peaceful neighborhood of Laguna Hills, the community guarantees a stress-free retirement. This nursing home is one of the best options for senior living in California, especially with its exceptional standards of care.
Cottonwood Canyon Healthcare Center in El Cajon, California, provides nursing home, hospice care, memory care, palliative care, respite care, and skilled nursing. Licensed nurses are on site around the clock for residents who need ongoing nursing support. Memory care is provided in a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering. Hospice and palliative care focus on comfort, while respite care offers a temporary stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.
The center has 96 beds and supports short term rehabilitation in an expansive rehab gym, so residents can receive rehabilitation services on site. There is room to get outside, too. Spacious courtyards with a pond and fountain give residents outdoor common areas to use.
Registered dietitians oversee meal planning and presentation, allowing meals to be adjusted to each patient’s needs. Medicare can cover qualifying short term skilled care after a hospital stay, while Medicaid can help eligible residents whose savings may not cover a long stay; private pay allows a family to pay directly. Total nurse staffing is 3 hours and 20 minutes per resident each day, representing the daily nursing time allocated to each resident. A Walk Score of 67 means some errands can be done on foot, so a resident who no longer drives may be able to manage some outings independently. Cottonwood Canyon Healthcare Center may be a good fit for someone who needs licensed nursing care, memory supervision, or a temporary stay while a family caregiver recovers or travels.
Experience vibrant living at Lake Park Senior Living in Oakland, CA, where personalized care meets endless opportunities for joy and independence. Specializing in assisted living, independent living, and respite care, this community features 55+ active adult apartments, including an entire floor dedicated to assisted living. Residents can choose from spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as cozy alcoves, ensuring a perfect fit for every lifestyle.
With a serene and inspiring indoor setting, you’ll have endless options to have fun, make friends, and relax. The best part? You or your loved one can rest easy, knowing there’s a plan in place in case their needs change in the future. This community offers the perfect balance of independence and support, ensuring residents can manage daily activities with dignity and ease. With a wide array of services and amenities, life here is enjoyable, fulfilling, active, and worry-free.
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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