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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.
RESC (Residential Care):
Personal care and daily-living support in a smaller, more intimate residential setting.
IL (Independent Living):
Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care.
HOS (Hospice Care):
Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
PC (Palliative Care):
Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community):
A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
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.
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.
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
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 Pilgrim Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center
Pilgrim Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center is a nursing home in Peabody, MA, offering long-term care, hospice care, rehabilitation, respite care, and skilled nursing. Promoting a nurturing and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults are treated well. Exceptional services, including 24-hour care, well-balanced meals, and regular wellness checks, are also provided to enrich residents’ living experiences. Through personalized care plans, the community strives to provide the best possible care according to residents’ physicians to ensure their recovery.
Creative exercises, brain games, and intergenerational programming ensure residents continue learning and gain meaningful experiences. Residents can also focus on their wellness and rest comfortably with thoughtfully furnished private and semi-private rooms, and a beauty/ barber shop. Lahey Medical Center, Peabody, Salem Country Club, and the Yankee Division Highway are located in the area, providing residents with quick access to necessities and leisure. This nursing home has high standards of care, making it a great choice for senior living in Massachusetts.
The Lillie Mansion at Lutheran is a nursing home offering assisted living, memory care, palliative care, residential care, respite care, and skilled nursing in Worcester, MA. Nursing home and skilled nursing care provide licensed nursing care on site around the clock, while assisted living helps with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication while a resident keeps their own apartment. Memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering.
Palliative care focuses on comfort and symptom management, and residential care provides daily support within a residential setting. Respite care offers a short stay for a family whose usual caregiver needs to travel or recover. The range of care levels may be a good fit for a resident whose needs grow over time, because moving between services can allow the resident to remain in the community.
The community has 150 beds. Total nurse staffing is 4h 23m per resident/day, representing the total daily hands-on nursing time assigned per resident. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted; Medicare covers short-term skilled care after a hospital stay rather than long-term residence, while Medicaid may help when savings do not cover a long stay and private pay uses personal or family funds.
A Walk Score of 88 places the area in the very walkable band, meaning most errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives can still reach shops, a pharmacy, or cafes independently. Pets are allowed, so residents may be able to keep a pet with them. Rehabilitation services, a Center for Short-term Rehabilitation, and outpatient rehab address both recovery periods and therapy that does not require an overnight stay, while the Hispanic and Latino Welcome Program and Veteran Welcome Program provide named programs for those groups. Ascentria Care Alliance owns the community.
The Meadows Health Center in North Andover, MA, offers assisted living, nursing home care, skilled nursing, memory care, hospice care, palliative support, and short-term respite stays. Assisted living helps residents with personal routines and medication management. Secured memory care provides specialized oversight for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, while hospice and palliative options focus on comfort and symptom management. Respite stays supply temporary care during caregiver travel or recovery periods.
Property features include private master suites, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a library, an art studio, a garden courtyard, a meditation garden, and paved walking paths. On-site salon and barber services give residents convenient access to grooming. Named programs at the property include the Hearthstone certified Center of Excellence and the I’m Still Here® Center of Excellence.
Nurse staffing averages 5 hours and 49 minutes per resident each day. Payment arrangements accommodate private pay and Medicare, which can help cover short-term skilled care following a hospital stay.
Prospective residents exploring senior care options in Essex County can contact the administration office to learn more or schedule a tour.
The Highlands is a nursing home in Fitchburg, MA, offering rehabilitation and skilled nursing. The community also ensures older adults are treated well in a supportive and home-like setting. With 24/7 nursing care, dietitian-approved meals, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation, residents experience a maintenance-free lifestyle. To meet residents’ unique needs and preferences, personalized care plans are also provided for their recovery.
Pet visits, light exercises, and various recreational opportunities foster interactions and encourage residents to live actively. Courtyards, a library, a beauty salon, and a barber shop are among the top-notch amenities dedicated to residents’ relaxation and wellness. Nestled near Mass Audubon’s Flat Rock Wildlife Sanctuary, Mount Wachusett Community College, and Crocker Conservation Area in Fitchburg, the community ensures accessibility and convenience. As one of the best options for senior living in Massachusetts, this nursing home continuously provides excellent services for older adults’ welfare.
CareOne at Lowell provides nursing home and skilled nursing care in Lowell, Massachusetts, with licensed nursing care on site around the clock. The 160 bed community serves residents in the Centralville neighborhood, and short term rehabilitation supports recovery after an illness, injury, or hospital stay. Therapy is available as part of rehabilitation, giving residents access to treatment during their care.
Respite care offers a short stay for a family caregiver who needs time to travel or recover. Pets are allowed, so residents who want to keep a companion animal with them may be able to do so. Restaurant style dining provides meals in a restaurant setting with a focus on nutrition.
A salon and spa, wellness center, outdoor patio, and courtyard offer places for personal care, exercise, and time outside, while the Harmony Village program provides a named community program. CareOne at Lowell accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay. Total nurse staffing is 5 hours and 15 minutes per resident per day, representing the recorded amount of nursing time assigned to each resident across a day. The community may be a good fit for someone who needs ongoing skilled nursing or a short rehabilitation stay, or for a family seeking temporary respite care.
Create unforgettable moments in retirement at Brooksby Village, a blissful retreat in Peabody, MA, offering independent living. The community has a variety of thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom floor plans, dedicated to residents’ comfort and safety. A compassionate team also helps with chores and maintenance, striving to maintain residents’ independence without hassles.
A jam-packed calendar of enriching activities and engaging programs is conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and maintain social connections. Delicious and healthy dining options are also served to satisfy residents’ dietary needs and preferences. With transportation services, residents can easily access their needs and various recreational opportunities. Amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center, a library, and well-maintained landscapes, creating the ideal setting for residents’ leisure and well-being.
Overview of Hancock Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
Hancock Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, nestled in Quincy, Massachusetts, has stood as a bastion of compassionate senior care since its establishment in 1996. Positioned conveniently near downtown Quincy, the center goes beyond providing care by creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for its residents. This 142-bed skilled center remains deeply ingrained in the local community, boasting a rich legacy and a commitment to excellence. Its dedicated Sub-acute Unit specializes in offering intensive rehabilitation and managing complex medical conditions. Hancock Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center epitomizes the harmonious blend of care and compassion, offering seniors a facility and a genuine place to call home. Guests are welcome to experience restaurant-style dining, where residents enjoy meals designed to preserve their dignity. Including a gift shop adds an extra touch of delight, while a roster of entertainment and recreational activities ensures high spirits among the residents. The exquisitely maintained outdoor courtyard is a tranquil space for contemplation and connection. Additionally, accessible parking facilities cater to the convenience of those with a car. Renowned for its state-of-the-art amenities and compassionate approach, Hancock Park adeptly caters to both short-term rehabilitation needs and long-term care requirements. Visiting hours extend from 8 am to 8 pm, ensuring ample opportunities for families and loved ones to connect with residents.
Adviniacare Salem is a nursing home in Salem, MA, that offers long-term care, rehabilitation, respite care, and skilled nursing. The community’s nurturing and welcoming environment ensures older adults can live comfortably. With round-the-clock nursing care, nutritious meals, and a wide range of care options, residents receive exceptional care to recover and return to their routines. Prioritizing residents’ holistic wellness, individualized care plans are also developed.
Card games, lectures, and trips encourage residents to explore interests and make friends. Accessible common areas, a library, and a cinema are among the well-maintained amenities dedicated to residents’ relaxation and wellness. Restaurants, shops, recreation sites, and public transportation are also available in the area, providing residents with quick access to necessities and leisure. Committed to helping older adults thrive in retirement, this nursing home is a great choice for senior living in Massachusetts.
Overview of Hellenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Hellenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit nursing home in Canton, MA, offering rehabilitation, respite care, and skilled nursing. Fostering a home-like and positive atmosphere, the community ensures older adults’ comfort and safety. High-quality services, including 24/7 care, nutritious meals, and comprehensive therapy programs, are also provided to improve residents’ quality of life. Along with a well-experienced care team, personalized care plans are also provided to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences.
Exercise groups, musical entertainment, and stimulating activities ensure residents can maintain their holistic well-being and encourage them to make friends. With accessible amenities and specially furnished rooms, residents can rest and focus on their wellness. Surrounded by parks, schools, and public transportation in Canton, the community ensures residents have a stress-free retirement. This nursing home is a great choice for senior living in Massachusetts, as it has top-notch services and a clean setting.
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Nursing Homes in Massachusetts at a glance
Avg Overall CMS Rating:3.0/ 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:3.1/ 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:3.0/ 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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