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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 89 nursing homes in NC using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in NC
Avg Overall CMS Rating:2.8/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in North Carolina. 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:2.7/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in North Carolina. 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 North Carolina. 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.
Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the NC Dept. of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS), 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 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.
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 North Carolina average is: 58.6% 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.
Live a wondrous retirement with The Cypress of Charlotte, an astounding community set in the tranquil residential area of Cypress Club Drive, Charlotte, NC, that offers independent living. The community features luxurious and specially designed cottages and villas, providing residents with a wide range of choices for accommodation. Here, residents make the most out of their golden years with the community’s vibrant and inviting environment.
With a full calendar of enriching activities and extensive amenities, residents will not run out of things to do for leisure and wellness. Indulge in delightful and healthy meals through the community’s dining venues available all day. The community is equipped with a fireside bistro, a large community hall, a fitness center, an art studio, a library, and serene outdoor verandas, making it an enticing option for those looking to live independently in their golden years.
Situated in the picturesque surroundings of Clemmons, North Carolina, Trinity Elms encompasses a diverse array of services designed to cater to the multifaceted needs of its residents. This vibrant campus extends its offerings to include assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and independent living apartments. Operated by the not-for-profit Lutheran Services Carolinas, Trinity Elms boasts amenities that may otherwise be considered cost-prohibitive at for-profit facilities.
Trinity Elms Assisted Living’s staff is dedicated to walking alongside residents, providing them with the care and support required to preserve their cherished independence within a community that radiates warmth. Unique highlights include an inviting ice cream parlor, outdoor walking trails, and a serene indoor courtyard, all fostering a sense of belonging. Trinity Elms’ recognition further exemplifies this dedication to senior residents’ well-being and comfort as a 2016 Excellence in Action award winner, a testament to the high satisfaction rates experienced by its residents.
Overview of Litchford Falls Health & Rehabilitation Center
Maintain your maximum potential with Litchford Falls Health & Rehabilitation Center, a dedicated community in Raleigh, NC for those needing short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Their compassionate and reliable care rehab team uses advanced therapy technology and equipment to help residents achieve excellent outcomes from their rehabilitation journey. Physicians and nursing team members are also available to help residents living with chronic illnesses or requiring more complex care services maintain a high quality of life.
Bright and spacious accommodations are provided with housekeeping and maintenance services, ensuring residents remain in a safe and organized environment without the hassles. Meals are prepared by talented chefs and served restaurant-style in a cozy dining room. With an array of activities designed based on residents’ abilities and interests, residents can make the most of their lives even as they recover or face the challenges of a health condition.
Liberty Commons, a healthcare facility in Wilmington, NC, is dedicated to providing a range of services, including assisted living and skilled nursing services. The accommodation options at Liberty Commons feature spacious private and semi-private suites equipped with amenities such as complimentary WiFi internet, flat-screen TVs with complimentary cable, and in-room refrigerators. The community’s focus on healthcare services extends to assisted living, where residents receive personalized support tailored to their individual needs, including dressing, bathing, and medication reminders.
Liberty Commons offers a variety of amenities to enhance the living experience for residents. In-room dining, outdoor and indoor gathering areas, salon services, and daily housekeeping and laundry services contribute to a comfortable and well-maintained environment. The community ensures convenience with admissions available seven days a week. Residents also engage in social activities, fostering a sense of community and connection. Liberty Commons stands as a healthcare facility committed to providing not only essential services but also a supportive and engaging living experience for its residents.
Overview of The Pavilion Health Center at Brightmore
The Pavilion Health Center at Brightmore is a 108-bed nursing home in Charlotte’s Provincetowne neighborhood, part of the larger Brightmore of South Charlotte campus. Situated on Providence Road in a car-dependent area, it’s equipped to serve individuals needing rehabilitation post-hospitalization, surgery, or other acute events, plus those needing longer-term nursing care. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, offering multiple routes for coverage.
The facility supports an extensive array of care services: skilled nursing, assisted living, hospice, palliative care, and respite care. This variety lets families find the right level of support in one location as care needs change. With 108 beds and an occupancy rate running at about 83 percent, the home serves a mix of short-term rehabilitation occupants and those in long-term care. The typical stay length is around 60 days, reflecting post-acute admissions and ongoing residents. Clinical care rests on a groundwork of person-centered planning, where a dedicated clinical team works with residents to develop individualized care plans focused on their unique needs and goals. The home prioritizes helping occupants regain skills and independence where possible, aiming to decrease hospital readmissions. Nursing staffing includes a total of 3 hours 46 minutes per resident day, broken down among registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, licensed vocational nurses, and nurse aides. The location on Providence Road is moderately car-dependent, with a Walk Score of 20, so most errands and visits need a drive. However, the facility setting provides a contained atmosphere for residents and visiting family to spend time together.
An in-person tour by families considering this home gives a good sense of the facility’s layout, care team, and daily rhythm. This can help ensure it matches their loved one’s specific care and lifestyle needs.
Overview of Hunter Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Owned by Steven Sheets, Hunter Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a 120-bed skilled nursing home in Charlotte, North Carolina. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted to give families several routes to fund short-term rehabilitation and longer-term nursing care.
Hunter Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center sits on Tom Hunter Road in a somewhat walkable neighborhood where within walking reach are some errands and services, though most visits need a brief drive. Averaging a stay length of 151 days, the facility serves post-acute residents recuperating from surgery or illness and those wanting ongoing care. Daily nursing support averages 3 hours 27 minutes per resident, built from a mix of registered nurses (20 minutes per day), licensed practical nurses (1 hour 5 minutes per day), and certified nursing aides (1 hour 37 minutes per day). This staffing composition provides consistent, diligent care alongside clinical oversight. The facility also maintains on-site therapy services, including physical, occupational, and speech-language pathology. These can lessen needing outside appointments and bolster occupants’ recovery and functional goals.
For families contemplating Hunter Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, an on-site tour is the best way to see it firsthand, meet the care team, and learn how the home structures its daily programs and services.
Greens at Hickory is a nursing home in Hickory, NC, offering long-term care, memory care, rehabilitation, and respite care. Here, older adults can find a home away from home in a supportive and welcoming setting. With gourmet meals, 24-hour care, and medication management, residents receive the utmost attention and care to live comfortably. Through personalized care plans, the community goes above and beyond to provide the best possible care for their recovery and rehabilitation.
Weekly outings, fun gatherings, and a variety of activities encourage residents to explore new hobbies and live actively. A beauty salon, spacious lounges, and outdoor seating areas are among the luxurious amenities dedicated to residents’ wellness. Residents also experience a laid-back lifestyle, as it is conveniently located in the peaceful neighborhood of Hickory. This nursing home is committed to older adults’ welfare, making it one of the trusted options for senior living in North Carolina.
Overview of Wilora Lake Healthcare Center – Nc West
Set in a serene area in Charlotte, NC, Wilora Lake Healthcare Center – Nc West provides a warm and welcoming environment for those needing skilled nursing services, short-term rehabilitation, or long-term care. They aim to improve residents’ quality of life by offering them personalized care plans with daily living assistance, comprehensive rehabilitation therapy programs, and memory care, depending on residents’ needs. With access to physical, speech, and occupational therapy services, residents can get back to doing the things they love in no time.
They also have an independent living and assisted living unit for residents looking to live their lives fully while receiving the care and assistance they may need. With no chores to worry about, residents can focus on maintaining their well-being and enjoying the things they love. At Wilora Lake Healthcare Center – Nc West, residents are given all the care and support they need amidst a supportive setting that fosters healing and relaxation.
Fairview, North Carolina is located about 12 miles southeast of Asheville, and Flesher’s Fairview Rest Home has been open there since 1964. This 64-bed home for seniors is in a part of the county where people must use cars to get around, as most errands require driving instead of walking. Mission Hospital in Asheville is the nearest large hospital if the people living there ever need serious medical help.
At the home, people can get help with exercises to get stronger and see a doctor who works there, along with special nursing and healing programs. The total time nurses spend with each person is a little less than four hours every day, which is divided among different types of trained nursing staff. A health program is the main part of the daily schedule, and the building provides rides, cleaning, and laundry for the people who live there.
Flesher’s takes government health insurance and private money, which gives families many choices for how they want to pay for their time at the home. Right now, only 23 of the 64 beds are being used, which means the building is 36 percent full. When state workers check the building, they often look at fire safety, how clean the environment is, how well people’s rights are protected, and how to stop people from falling or getting hurt.
Because of the nursing time, the exercise programs, and the nearby hospital, this place is designed for medical help and getting better rather than living on your own. Being in the same small community for sixty years means the home has many memories, which come from helping many members of the same families over a very long time.
Overview of Clear Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Maintain the skills you need to continue enjoying life in Clear Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a reliable and welcoming community in Mint Hill, NC for short-term and long-term care. Here, residents’ needs are met with compassionate and dignified care and assistance from an interdisciplinary care team. The community features a team of RNS, LPNs, therapists, dieticians, activity directors, and a community-based chaplain to ensure residents’ physical, social, nutritional, and mental health needs are met.
As a community surrounded by nature, lush trees, and vast green spaces, Clear Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provides a healing and relaxing environment for maintaining your well-being. Fun opportunities for fitness, socialization, and hobbies are also available to keep residents active, connected, and entertained. Proper nourishment is also guaranteed with fresh and healthy meals served daily. Here, they go above and beyond in providing a nurturing environment that promotes overall wellness.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.
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 North Carolina
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in North Carolina?
Assisted living in North Carolina 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 North Carolina Medicaid cover nursing home care?
Yes — North Carolina 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 89 nursing homes in North Carolina. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?
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
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