Best Nursing Homes in Cambridge, MA

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 7 nursing homes in Cambridge, MA using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in MA
Reviewed by
Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Cambridge, MA our team has analyzed — not a count of every nursing home provider in Cambridge, MA.
7 homes
Other senior care options in Cambridge:
Avg Overall CMS Rating: 3.4/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Cambridge, MA. 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: 3.4/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Cambridge, MA. 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: 3.4/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Cambridge, MA. 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 Cambridge (Metro Area)

Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs, senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest to lowest based on our ranking 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 Table AL (Assisted Living): Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing. NH (Nursing Home): 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility): Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. MC (Memory Care): Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. RC (Respite Care): Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break. 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.
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 Massachusetts average is: 66.2% 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.
Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center in Brighton
NH
SNF
Allston (Brighton)
123
Facility 123
MA AVG 94
Rank #55 / 276
77.6%
Facility 77.6%
MA AVG 80.2
Rank #54 / 79
-3%
7.73
Facility 7.73
MA AVG 3.93
Rank #1 / 83
+105%+97%
$0
Facility $0
MA AVG $76.6k
Rank #1 / 86
7
Facility 7
MA AVG 32.7
Rank #5 / 85
2.3
Facility 2.3
MA AVG 7.2
Rank #4 / 85
196-
91
Facility 91
MA AVG 53
Rank #39 / 490
Mass General Brigham Incorporated
$32.4MFiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility $32.4MFiscal year ending 09/2023
MA AVG $15.2M
Rank #3 / 82
$22.5MFiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility $22.5MFiscal year ending 09/2023
MA AVG $9.7M
Rank #2 / 82
69.3%Fiscal year ending 09/2023
Facility 69.3%Fiscal year ending 09/2023
MA AVG 66.2%
Rank #20 / 82
225014
Neville Center at Fresh Pond
NH
AL
HOS
MC
SNF
Cambridge (Cambridge Highlands)
112
Facility 112
MA AVG 94
Rank #76 / 276
88.8%
Facility 88.8%
MA AVG 80.2
Rank #36 / 79
+11%
3.89
Facility 3.89
MA AVG 3.93
Rank #34 / 83
-12%-1%
$0
Facility $0
MA AVG $76.6k
Rank #1 / 86
20
Facility 20
MA AVG 32.7
Rank #26 / 85
5.0
Facility 5.0
MA AVG 7.2
Rank #27 / 85
-100-
63
Facility 63
MA AVG 53
Rank #204 / 490
Neville Communities Home Inc
$16.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $16.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $15.2M
Rank #27 / 82
$11.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $11.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $9.7M
Rank #22 / 82
69.8%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 69.8%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG 66.2%
Rank #17 / 82
225378
Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
NH
HOS
PC
SNF
Cambridge (Mid-Cambridge)
83
Facility 83
MA AVG 94
Rank #151 / 276
93.1%
Facility 93.1%
MA AVG 80.2
Rank #16 / 79
+16%
3.93
Facility 3.93
MA AVG 3.93
Rank #34 / 83
+62%0%
$0
Facility $0
MA AVG $76.6k
Rank #1 / 86
22
Facility 22
MA AVG 32.7
Rank #31 / 85
7.3
Facility 7.3
MA AVG 7.2
Rank #51 / 85
-77-
95
Facility 95
MA AVG 53
Rank #13 / 490
Cambridge Center Holdings LLC
$8.5MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $8.5MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $15.2M
Rank #73 / 82
$5.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $5.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $9.7M
Rank #68 / 82
65.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 65.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG 66.2%
Rank #27 / 82
225520
Sancta Maria
NH
HOS
RC
SNF
Cambridge (Cambridge Highlands)
141
Facility 141
MA AVG 94
Rank #37 / 276
89.4%
Facility 89.4%
MA AVG 80.2
Rank #33 / 79
+11%
4.20
Facility 4.20
MA AVG 3.93
Rank #21 / 83
+14%+7%
$0
Facility $0
MA AVG $76.6k
Rank #1 / 86
38
Facility 38
MA AVG 32.7
Rank #61 / 85
12.7
Facility 12.7
MA AVG 7.2
Rank #80 / 85
-126-
68
Facility 68
MA AVG 53
Rank #180 / 490
Amber Dubois
$19.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $19.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $15.2M
Rank #17 / 82
$13.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $13.6MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $9.7M
Rank #16 / 82
68.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 68.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG 66.2%
Rank #21 / 82
225573
Watertown Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
NH
HOS
PC
SNF
Watertown (East Watertown)
163
Facility 163
MA AVG 94
Rank #20 / 276
81.5%
Facility 81.5%
MA AVG 80.2
Rank #45 / 79
+2%
2.91
Facility 2.91
MA AVG 3.93
Rank #79 / 83
+66%-26%
$56.4k
Facility $56.4k
MA AVG $76.6k
Rank #74 / 86
60
Facility 60
MA AVG 32.7
Rank #79 / 85
6.7
Facility 6.7
MA AVG 7.2
Rank #46 / 85
1133-
78
Facility 78
MA AVG 53
Rank #132 / 490
Watertown Rehab Holdco LLC
$11.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $11.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $15.2M
Rank #54 / 82
$6.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $6.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG $9.7M
Rank #59 / 82
56.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 56.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
MA AVG 66.2%
Rank #55 / 82
225425

Rank badges are statewide: each community is ranked against every MA community we track that reports that metric, not just the 7 analyzed for Cambridge.

Overview of Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center in Brighton

At Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center in Brighton, the commitment to excellence is an ongoing journey, marked by their dedication to collaboration and the continuous refinement of their supportive team. Situated in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, this establishment boasts a stellar reputation in the realm of senior care. Their unwavering focus lies in delivering an unparalleled experience, brought to life by their seasoned nursing, therapy, and clinical staff.

With a profound emphasis on personalization, they craft rehabilitation and recovery plans that harness the power of evidence-based approaches. This encompassing approach spans a wide spectrum, encompassing amputations, burns, heart conditions, spinal cord injuries, neurological disorders, and beyond. Recognized for their exceptional standards, this award-winning facility stands out in the realm of skilled nursing, setting a remarkable benchmark for comprehensive care. Moreover, their expertise extends to specialized programs and services catering to individuals facing challenges such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and more, affirming their dedication to addressing diverse needs with utmost proficiency.

Contact Spaulding Nursing and Therapy Center in Brighton

Overview of Neville Center at Fresh Pond

Located in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Neville Center at Fresh Pond is renowned for its exceptional care services. With a track record of achievements, this facility offers a range of options including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and various recreational activities. Spacious rooms await residents, and the dining experience is of top-notch quality, complete with amenities that enhance the senior living experience.

Their guiding principle is a strong commitment to comfort and joy. Taking a holistic approach, they emphasize a pulmonary program and even have an in-house beauty salon. At the core of their offerings is the Ageless Grace program, designed to empower mature adults in their pursuit of health and happiness. Through this initiative, cognitive decline is addressed, and individuals experience renewed vitality, promoting the concept of neuroplasticity. The Neville Center is a place where comprehensive care, comfort, and well-being come together to enrich the lives of residents.

Contact Neville Center at Fresh Pond

Overview of Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center

Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center is a community dedicated to fostering profound connections and providing unparalleled, compassionate care. This home stands as a beacon of comprehensive care, offering a range of services that encompass short-term rehabilitation, post-acute care, and long-term care, all aimed at nurturing a holistic sense of well-being. The outdoor patio and engaging activities serve as avenues for social interaction and enjoyment, complemented by gourmet meals that satisfy both the palate and the soul. The spacious rooms are thoughtfully designed, with picturesque views of the vibrant city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, providing a serene and inspiring atmosphere.

An integral part of the community’s character is the presence of volunteers from local community groups and religious organizations, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of connections and experiences. With conveniences like on-site laundry and housekeeping, as well as the availability of beautician and barber services, the Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center stands as a testament to a holistic approach to care, creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all who call it home. The facility also goes beyond nursing home care by ensuring that nursing homes requirements are met, and offers a wide array of nursing home activities that cater to the diverse interests and needs of its residents.

Contact Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center

Overview of Sancta Maria

At Sancta Maria, a nonprofit organization, the well-being of their residents is at the forefront of their mission. They are dedicated to providing an exceptional and holistic approach to senior care that truly encompasses compassion at its core. This nursing facility stands out with its all-encompassing rehabilitation and short-term services, boasting a 24-hour skilled nursing staff that is highly regarded as a preferred provider for personalized long-term care.

With an array of on-site services, including dialysis, Sancta Maria caters to a wide spectrum of needs, all while being deeply rooted in the Catholic faith tradition. However, their open arms extend to people of all faiths, reflecting an inclusive and welcoming environment. With an impressive track record spanning 75 years, their commitment to providing top-notch services is unwavering. The comprehensive range of services, including intensive care, positions Sancta Maria as a dependable and trusted choice for families seeking high-quality care for their loved ones.

Contact Sancta Maria

Overview of Watertown Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

The Watertown Rehabilitation and Nursing Center stands as a 163-bed haven of skilled nursing excellence. Its strategic location places it near both Cambridge and downtown Boston, granting residents easy access to a plethora of local conveniences and recreational offerings. The establishment offers private and semi-private rooms adorned with sweeping views that enhance the living experience.

Beyond the captivating vistas, the center boasts inviting meeting spaces, splendid outdoor patios, and generously proportioned dining areas. This carefully curated environment serves as an idyllic backdrop for recovery, fostering a sense of comfort and wellness. A registered dietitian is at the helm, ensuring comprehensive and tailored nutritional support. Among the services, palliative and hospice care, pain management, short-term rehab, and long-term care are seamlessly integrated, catering to a diverse spectrum of needs. Welcoming various insurance options, including Medicare, Medicaid, private pay, UHC One Care, and more, this establishment is committed to providing top-notch care that transcends expectations.

Contact Watertown Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

Overview of Neville Place Assisted Living

Located in the charming city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Neville Place Assisted Living presents an exceptional opportunity for seniors seeking a blend of assisted living and memory care with skilled nursing. This inviting community extends a warm invitation to those looking for a perfect balance between compassionate assistance and top-notch healthcare. With its idyllic location surrounded by tranquil woodlands and a serene pond, Neville Place creates an ideal haven where residents can enjoy the comfort and care they deserve while benefiting from skilled nursing support.

Regarded as an urban jewel, the home boasts a design crafted by the esteemed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, known for his masterful creations. The expansive grounds and picturesque neighborhood pay homage to this legacy, offering residents a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Neville Place excels in providing a spectrum of services, from short-term rehabilitation to comprehensive long-term care, all while adhering to rigorous nursing home quality measures. As a beacon of high-quality and affordable options, Neville Place Assisted Living is not merely a residence, but a wellspring of comfort and care.

Contact Neville Place Assisted Living

Overview of Neville Place at Fresh Pond

Located in the charming city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Neville Place Assisted Living presents an exceptional opportunity for seniors seeking a blend of memory care with assisted living and skilled nursing. This inviting community extends a warm invitation to those looking for a perfect balance between compassionate assistance and top-notch healthcare. With its idyllic location surrounded by tranquil woodlands and a serene pond, Neville Place creates an ideal haven where residents can enjoy the comfort and care they deserve while benefiting from skilled nursing support.

Regarded as an urban jewel, the home boasts a design crafted by the esteemed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, known for his masterful creations. The expansive grounds and picturesque neighborhood pay homage to this legacy, offering residents a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Neville Place excels in providing a spectrum of services, from short-term rehabilitation to comprehensive long-term care, all while adhering to rigorous nursing home quality measures. As a beacon of high-quality and affordable options, Neville Place Assisted Living is not merely a residence, but a wellspring of comfort and care.

Contact Neville Place at Fresh Pond

Ranking Methodology

How we rank these nursing homes

Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.

  • CMS data
  • 5 weighted categories
  • Updated quarterly
Full methodology

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Care Quality
  • 20%
    Staffing
  • 20%
    Regulatory
  • 20%
    Operational
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Care Quality 35%

The largest single share of every ranking. CMS star ratings and quality measures that reflect actual care delivered to residents.

  • Includes
  • Overall Rating
  • Health Inspection
  • QM Rating
  • Long-Stay QM
  • Short-Stay QM
02

Staffing Adequacy 20%

The strongest predictor of resident outcomes. Volume and stability of nursing care, drawn from CMS Payroll-Based Journal.

  • Includes
  • Nurse Hrs/Res/Day
  • RN vs State
  • Total Nurse Staff Hrs vs State
  • RN Turnover
03

Regulatory & Safety Record 20%

Inspection patterns that star ratings can mask. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • Citations
  • Citations/Inspection
  • Severe Citations
  • Fines
  • Accreditations
04

Operational & Financial Stability 20%

Stable operations and sound finances are leading indicators of consistent care over time.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy vs State
  • Avg Length of Stay
  • Revenue
  • Payroll %
  • Years in Operation
  • Admin Tenure
05

Environment & Accessibility 5%

Context that matters to families but doesn't directly measure clinical care. Weighted lower for nursing homes than for assisted or independent living.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • BBB Rating
No paid rankings Facilities cannot pay to influence placement.
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
Submit a correction
Who we are

Your Senior Care Partner, Every Step of the Way

We help families find affordable senior communities and unlock same day discounts, Medicaid, and Medicare options tailored to your needs.

Contact us Today

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Cambridge, MA

What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Massachusetts?

Assisted living in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts Medicaid cover nursing home care?

Yes — Massachusetts 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 7 nursing homes in Cambridge, MA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right nursing home in Cambridge, MA?

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 Cambridge, MA, 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 Cambridge, MA?

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.