Best Independent Living near me in Berkeley, California

Berkeley, located in California, is a vibrant city known for its progressive culture, academic institutions, and diverse community. Home to the renowned University of California, Berkeley, the city offers a mix of intellectual pursuits, cultural events, and natural beauty...

Best Independent Living near me in Berkeley, California

Berkeley, located in California, is a vibrant city known for its progressive culture, academic institutions, and diverse community. Home to the renowned University of California, Berkeley, the city offers a mix of intellectual pursuits, cultural events, and natural beauty. With a history deeply rooted in activism and innovation, Berkeley maintains a distinctive character that attracts residents seeking a dynamic urban experience.

Costs of Independent Living in Berkeley:

Independent living costs in Berkeley can vary based on factors such as housing, healthcare, and lifestyle choices. Berkeley, being part of the San Francisco Bay Area, generally has a higher cost of living compared to national averages. Housing expenses, including rent and property values, contribute significantly to the overall cost of independent living. It's advisable for individuals considering independent living in Berkeley to carefully budget for housing, healthcare services, and other daily expenses.

Average Income in Berkeley:

The average income in Berkeley is influenced by its diverse population and the presence of academic institutions. While income levels can vary, the city generally reflects a mix of middle to upper-middle-class households. Factors such as education and employment in sectors like technology and academia contribute to the overall income landscape. It's essential for residents to be aware of the income dynamics when planning for independent living in Berkeley.

Ranking of Berkeley among Top Cities in California:

Berkeley consistently ranks as one of the top cities in California, thanks to its cultural richness, educational institutions, and economic contributions. Its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area enhances its appeal. The city's commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation contributes to its positive standing among the top cities in the state.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in Berkeley, CA:

  • Harmony House
  • Berkeley Springs Manor
  • Redwood Gardens
  • Waters Edge Lodge
  • North Berkeley Senior Center
  • Atria Park of Lafayette
  • The Point at Rockridge
  • Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights
  • Lake Park Retirement Residence
  • Carlton Senior Living Downtown Pleasant Hill

These independent living providers offer a range of amenities and services catering to the needs and preferences of seniors seeking a supportive and engaging living environment in Berkeley, CA.

St Mary's Place Retirement Home

3.0
435 Walnut Ave, California 94598
St Mary's Place Retirement Home is one of those smaller, quieter care homes that feels more like a house than a facility. Tucked into a residential Walnut Creek neighborhood, it’s licensed for just six residents, which means everyone gets more attention than you’d find in a big complex. The focus here is memory care—Alzheimer’s and dementia support—with 24-hour caregivers and a secured environment to keep residents safe from wandering.
Estimated Pricing
$4,201–$7,288 / mth

Tice Oaks Apartments

3.0
2150 Tice Valley Blvd, California 94595
Tice Oaks Apartments is a senior community that feels more like a neighborhood than a facility. The place is made up of garden-style, one-bedroom apartments grouped around peaceful courtyards, which gives it a relaxed, homey vibe. It's not a 'care facility' in the traditional sense—there aren't medical staff or daily hands-on care—but it's designed for older adults who want to keep their independence while having some support and a built-in community.
Estimated Pricing
$5,136–$7,288 / mth

Amaryllis Senior Care Home

2.9
2491 Mallard Dr, California 94597
Amaryllis Senior Care Home feels more like a cozy house than a big facility. It's a smaller place, so your parent won’t get lost in the shuffle. Families say the staff are genuinely attentive, and you’ll often see the same faces day after day, which really helps with trust and routine. They offer help with things like bathing, dressing, and medication, but still encourage residents to do what they can for themselves.
Estimated Pricing
$4,201–$7,968 / mth

Carmel Pines

2.9
1770 Carmel Dr, California 94596
Carmel Pines is a smaller 55+ senior apartment community that feels more like a quiet garden complex than a traditional assisted living facility. Residents here live independently in one-bedroom apartments, each about 525 square feet, with basic utilities like water, heat, and trash included in the rent. The location is a big plus—right across from Civic Park and close to the Walnut Creek Senior Center, library, and shopping, so it's easy to stay active or run errands without needing a car.
Estimated Pricing
$4,201–$7,288 / mth

Diablo Assisted Living Company

2.9
15 Glen Creek Lane, California 94595
Diablo Assisted Living II, tucked away on Glen Creek Lane, is one of those smaller Walnut Creek care homes that feels more like a big family than a facility. The staff here is known for being hands-on and attentive—residents get help with the basics like bathing, getting dressed, and managing medications, but it's done in a way that respects their independence.
Estimated Pricing
$4,201–$13,038 / mth

Procare Retirement Home

2.9
208 San Antonio Way, California 94598
Procare Retirement Home at 208 San Antonio Way is a small, licensed residential care home for seniors in Walnut Creek. It’s not a big facility—think more like a house than an institution. They’re licensed as a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE), which means they handle daily living help, meals, and medication reminders, but don’t provide skilled nursing or medical care on site.
Estimated Pricing
$4,201–$13,038 / mth

Magnolia Garden At Danville

2.4
205 El Pinto, California 94526
Magnolia Garden At Danville stands out for its flexible, resident-driven approach and the way it feels more like a lively community than an institution. The staff here are known for being attentive and adaptable—families mention that concerns and special requests are actually heard and acted on, which isn’t always the case elsewhere. The care team provides 24-hour supervision, help with daily tasks like bathing and dressing, and medication management.
Estimated Pricing
$3,684–$12,142 / mth

East Bay Assisted Living

1301 E 31st St, California 94602
Excell Health Care Center is a 99-bed skilled nursing facility that focuses on short-term rehab and long-term care for older adults who need more than what can be managed at home. The team includes nurses, rehab therapists, dietitians, social workers, and case managers—so care plans are built with input from different disciplines, not just one doctor.
Estimated Pricing
$3,715–$14,405 / mth

J & C Care Center

4240 Redding St, California 94619
Lake Merritt Healthcare Center is a smaller skilled nursing facility with 53 licensed beds, located right on MacArthur Blvd in Oakland. They focus on long-term care for seniors who need daily nursing support—think help with medications, mobility, meals, and ongoing health monitoring. It's not a home care agency; residents live on site and receive round-the-clock attention from nursing staff.
Estimated Pricing
$3,715–$14,405 / mth

Lake Park Senior Living

1850 Alice St, California 94612
Lakeside Park stands out for its hands-on, truly memory-focused care. This isn’t a place where you’ll see generic activity calendars or a revolving door of unfamiliar staff. The caregivers here—called Nayas—are specially trained in dementia care, and many have earned certifications from The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. What I notice most is how they build real relationships with residents, not just providing support but engaging in daily life together.
Estimated Pricing
$3,715–$14,405 / mth

Mercy Retirement & Care Center

3431 Foothill Blvd, California 94601
Mercy Retirement & Care Center has been part of Oakland’s senior care landscape for over a century, and you’ll find a wide range of services under one roof. They offer independent living, assisted living, memory care for folks with dementia or Alzheimer’s, and skilled nursing, including short-term rehab after illness or surgery. The staff includes licensed nurses and in-house therapists—occupational, physical, and speech—so residents don’t have to travel for most medical needs.
Estimated Pricing
$4,925–$14,405 / mth

Piedmont Gardens

110 41st St, California 94611
Piedmont Gardens stands out in Oakland because it’s one of the few places that offers a full range of senior care under one roof—independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and even inpatient hospice. That means residents can stay in the same community as their needs change, which is a big relief for families who don’t want to move their loved one multiple times.
Estimated Pricing
$3,715–$14,405 / mth

St. Paul's Towers

100 Bay Pl, California 94610
St. Paul's Towers is one of those places people mention when they're looking for a solid, established community in Oakland for their parents. It's not flashy or brand new, but it has a reputation for really good care and a warm, welcoming vibe. The apartments are surprisingly spacious for a city location, with full kitchens and even decks in some units.
Estimated Pricing
$4,925–$14,405 / mth

Sunrise of Oakland Hills

11889 Skyline Blvd, California 94619
Sunrise of Oakland Hills is known for its recently remodeled building, comfortable rooms, and a warm environment where many families say their loved ones feel truly cared for. The staff gets a lot of positive mentions, especially Cheryl Laven, the Director of Sales, who stands out for being welcoming and responsive to families. Caregivers are often described as hardworking and attentive, particularly in the memory care area, where residents seem to get extra support and a sense of belonging.
Estimated Pricing
$3,715–$14,405 / mth

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Important things to know about Independent Living

Independent Living: A Guide to Choosing Ideal Communities for Seniors

Independent Living: A Guide to Choosing Ideal Communities for Seniors

Added: Jun 1, 2023
4 min read
Last modified: Nov 26, 2023
Seniors in independent living manage their day-to-day lives on their own. There is no staff to help with personal care
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