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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 111 nursing homes in MA using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in MA
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-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.
HC (Home Care):
Professional care delivered in the person's own home, from companionship to skilled nursing.
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.
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 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.
$4.7M*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.
$12.2M*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.
258.6%*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 and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other MA nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 111 on this page. See how we rank facilities
Notre Dame Du Lac maintains a level of faith-based and professional service. The senior living community offers service for assisted living and nursing home care options for residents who are equally given the same amount of dignified and respected service. Notre Dame Du Lac creates an environment where residents continuously still grow as individuals in a nurturing environment that ensures maximizing each and everyone’s quality of life in Christ-like care.
Notre Dame centers of excellence are found in their rehabilitation, long-term care, and skilled nursing care with inclusive amenities and services such as weekly housekeeping, 24-hour care, scheduled outings, recreational and social activities, enriching specialized programs, healthy meals served daily, and fully-furnished apartments.
Casa De Ramana Rehabilitation Center is a nursing home in Framingham, MA, offering long-term care, memory care, hospice care, rehabilitation, and respite care. With a compassionate and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults are treated well throughout their stay. 24-hour care, well-balanced meals, and recreational activities are also provided to improve residents’ quality of life. Following a holistic approach to care, the community strives to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences for their recovery and wellness.
Hobby clubs, games, and arts and crafts ensure residents can explore new interests and gain meaningful experiences. Residents can also rest and freely interact with their surroundings in the spacious and clean common areas. Situated near the Farm Pond, restaurants, shops, and bus stops, the community ensures a stress-free retirement. This nursing home is a trusted choice for senior living in Massachusetts, especially with top-notch amenities and high standards of care.
The Jewish Healthcare Center is at 629 Salisbury St in Worcester, Massachusetts; it’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a Walk Score of 12. The building holds 141 beds, and the profile lists nursing home, assisted living, home care, hospice care, and nursing care as part of what the facility offers. That is an unusually wide range of designations for a single address, which is worth verifying if the specific service type matters for a particular family’s situation.
The numbers that tell you the most about daily life here are the staffing and the length-of-stay figures. Total nursing care runs 4 hours and 28 minutes per resident per day, with registered nurses delivering about 26 minutes of that and nurse aides accounting for 2 hours and 39 minutes. The average stay is 72 days, just over two months. That is a short-stay profile, consistent with a facility organized around post-acute recovery and rehabilitation rather than long-term placement.
Occupancy sits at 91.8% in a 141-bed building, which means availability tends to be limited. Families planning a placement here should factor that into timing. Payment pathways include Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, which lines up with the short-stay model where Medicare is often the primary payer on admission.
For adults stepping down from a hospital stay and needing structured nursing and rehabilitation support in Worcester, The Jewish Healthcare Center is a high-occupancy, multi-service facility built around that kind of transition.
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.
Overview of Victoria Haven Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Center
Victoria Haven Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing in Norwood, MA, is a family-owned and operated nursing home that offers long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice care. Promoting a nurturing and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults have a comfortable stay. 24-hour nursing care, comprehensive therapies, and counseling services are among the exceptional services dedicated to residents’ welfare. The community also goes above and beyond to provide the best possible care for residents’ recovery and rehabilitation.
Light exercises and social events ensure residents can live actively and maintain their holistic wellness. Spacious living areas and well-maintained amenities are also available, so residents can relax and connect with their surroundings. Residents also have a stress-free retirement, as it is ideally situated in the peaceful residential area of Norwood. This nursing home is a great option for senior living in Massachusetts, especially with its exceptional quality of care.
Burrowed in the inviting neighborhood of Lincoln, MA, The Commons in Lincoln is an enticing senior living community offering professional care services. This community is accessible to Boston and its restaurants, music, museums and more. Spacious apartments and cottages are available for its residents tailore to their preferences and needs.
With its exceptional amenities and services, residents can enjoy a fine dining and housekeeping and linen services. Rejuvenate your body through its heated indoor pool and spa. Further self-care efforts by going to an on-site salon and barbershop. Meet new people and create enjoyable experiences at the walking trails and paths. Participate in various wellness and other social activities to boost endurance and engagement. With The Commons in Lincoln, seniors are assured of a classic retirement.
Experience the finest things in retirement living with Carleton-Willard Village, a non-profit community in Bedford, MA, dedicated to offering skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and assisted living. Residents enjoy utmost comfort and safety in their well-appointed accommodations with easy access to cozy common areas and amenities like their hair salon, auditorium, and the Victoria Café. Dedicated to helping residents live their best lives without worries, the community provides them with comprehensive care services, including daily living assistance, therapy services, and more.
Those living with memory conditions will thrive in a safe and secure environment with access to a multi-level activity program designed to give them enriching experiences that nurture their overall well-being. Dining is a cozy and satisfying experience in the community with its flexible dining options and well-prepared meals that suit residents’ individual dietary needs and preferences.
Based in North Falmouth, MA, Royal Megansett Nursing Home is a renowned senior living community that offers exceptional skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Boasting 28 excellently designed private rooms, the community warrants for a truly personalized care and focused attention to its residents. Residents enjoy relaxing views and compassionate assistance from a team of highly-skilled care professionals available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
With a strong dedication to nurturing its residents’ well-being, Royal Megansett Nursing Home also provides a wide array of life-enriching activities designed based on residents’ interests and current capabilities. Residents’ nutrition is monitored and considered when preparing their meals, ensuring they always eat balanced and delicious meals. Here, residents are treated like royalties within an enriching environment that encourages them to lead a vibrant retirement life.
Considerably only one of its kind, The Boston home is the prime nursing home for seniors with progressive neurological disorders; they have been recognized as the ‘Center for Excellence in Long-Term Care’ by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The Boston Home prides itself in being one of the inspirations in the lives of its residents which have extended to the seniors’ families. The Boston Home has a list of exclusive programs and services that have make them special; naming a few of these include B.Fit! which is a health and wellness program to keep residents active; The Wheelchair Enhancement Program that focuses on the cost-effective solution to wheelchair users; their rehabilitation program that offers therapies, VitalStim neuromuscular electrical stimulation for swallowing, and an augmentative and alternative communication device assessments.
Overview of The Ellis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
The Ellis Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing is a family-owned and operated nursing home in Norwood, MA, offering long-term care and short-term rehabilitation. Promoting an inclusive and supportive setting, the community ensures older adults are well-cared for. Residents also experience a worry-free lifestyle with round-the-clock care, pain management, and well-balanced menus. Through individualized care plans, residents receive high-quality care tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
Fitness programs and a variety of recreational activities ensure residents can maintain their holistic wellness and gain meaningful experiences. A hair salon, a pub, and a non-denominational chapel are among the top-notch amenities dedicated to residents’ relaxation and peace of mind. Located in the quiet residential area of Norwood, near Ellis Gardens Playground, restaurants, and shops, the community guarantees accessibility and convenience. This nursing home is a trusted choice for senior living in Massachusetts, especially with its commitment to older adults’ welfare.
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 Massachusetts
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 111 nursing homes in Massachusetts. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts at a glance
Avg Overall CMS Rating:2.9/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Massachusetts. 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:3.0/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts. 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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