Best Independent Living near me in Castro Valley, California

Castro Valley, CA, is an unincorporated community in Alameda County, located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Known for its suburban feel, Castro Valley offers residents a blend of...

Castro Valley, CA, is an unincorporated community in Alameda County, located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Known for its suburban feel, Castro Valley offers residents a blend of residential neighborhoods, parks, and local amenities, making it a peaceful yet accessible community for both families and retirees. The town is well-regarded for its local schools and proximity to various recreational areas, including Lake Chabot Regional Park, which provides scenic trails and outdoor activities.

Costs of Independent Living in Castro Valley, CA

The cost of independent living in Castro Valley varies depending on the specific facility and amenities offered. Generally, monthly fees can range from around $3,000 to $5,500, with higher-end facilities providing additional services and recreational opportunities. These costs align closely with the Bay Area's overall pricing for senior living accommodations, which tend to be above the national average.

Average Income in Castro Valley, CA

The median household income in Castro Valley is approximately $109,000, which is higher than the state and national averages. This reflects the community’s relatively affluent population, with many residents employed in nearby cities within the technology, healthcare, and education sectors.

Ranking of Castro Valley among Top Cities in California

While not a major city, Castro Valley ranks favorably among California’s smaller communities for quality of life, access to outdoor activities, and school quality. It is recognized for its safe neighborhoods and family-friendly atmosphere, though it may not be listed in the top urban rankings due to its unincorporated status.

Top Independent Living Facilities in Castro Valley, CA:

Baywood Court Retirement Community
Eden Villa Castro Valley
Castro Valley Adult and Senior Home
Valley Senior Living
Fairmont Senior Living of Castro Valley

Lafayette Gardens

4.1

3486 Monroe Ave, California 94549

Memory Care

Independent Living

Lafayette Gardens isn’t a sprawling facility—it’s more of a small, home-like setting where staff know each resident by name. They focus on hands-on help with daily activities: bathing, dressing, eating, and getting around. If your loved one needs support with memory issues, like Alzheimer’s or dementia, they tailor care plans and keep routines predictable.

Estimated Pricing

$3,885–$12,789 / mth

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Byron Park

2.8

1700 Tice Valley Blvd, California

Memory Care

Independent Living

Byron Park stands out for its genuinely welcoming vibe and the way staff connect with both residents and families. When you walk in, you’re likely to be greeted by people who know the residents by name, and it’s not uncommon to see staff chatting with families or helping new arrivals settle in. Maria Petrescu is often mentioned as a standout—she’s not just knowledgeable about the community, but she’s also known for making tours feel personal and for answering questions with real care.

Estimated Pricing

$5,136–$13,038 / mth

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Waters Edge Lodge

4.5

801 Island Dr, California 94502

Memory Care

Independent Living

Waters Edge Lodge stands out because it feels less like a facility and more like a lively community where residents genuinely have choices in how they spend their days. The first thing families often notice is the bright, open layout and the view of the lagoon—residents can sit on the patio and watch the water, which is rare in Alameda. The staff, from caregivers to the activities manager, are described as warm, responsive, and truly invested in the residents’ well-being.

Estimated Pricing

$4,243–$12,126 / mth

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Alameda Mastick Senior Center

3.8

1155 Santa Clara Ave, California 94501

Memory Care

Independent Living

Mastick Senior Center isn’t an assisted living or memory care facility—think of it more like a bustling community hub for folks 50 and up. It’s run by the City of Alameda’s Recreation & Park Department, and the vibe is friendly, informal, and welcoming. Membership is free, and the center draws over 4,000 members, many of whom come for the sheer variety of activities.

Estimated Pricing

$4,243–$8,318 / mth

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Creating New Hope - Senior Living Advisors

4.6

234 Timber Wolf Ct, California 94568

Memory Care

Independent Living

Creating New Hope - Senior Living Advisors is run by people who know the local senior care scene inside and out. The founder, Tena Scallan, has over 30 years of experience in caregiving and care management, so families get advice from someone who’s seen it all. What they actually do is walk families through the maze of senior living options—assisted living, memory care, independent living, and even smaller residential care homes.

Estimated Pricing

$3,550–$9,119 / mth

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Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton

4.7

3300 Stoneridge Creek Way, California 94588

Memory Care

Independent Living

Stoneridge Creek Pleasanton feels more like a lively neighborhood than a typical senior community. Residents here have the option to live in apartments or stand-alone villas, many with full kitchens, attached garages, and modern appliances. The campus is sprawling—50 acres—with walking trails, a dog park, tennis courts, and even a short-game golf course.

Estimated Pricing

$4,362–$12,125 / mth

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The Heritage Downtown

2.8

1785 Shuey Ave, California

Independent Living

The Heritage Downtown isn’t your typical senior living spot—it’s got a personality all its own. What stands out right away is the energy: residents here are active, social, and genuinely seem to enjoy each other’s company. The vibe is more like a friendly college dorm than a quiet retirement complex.

Estimated Pricing

$5,136–$7,288 / mth

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Tiffany Court of Walnut Creek

2.8

1866 San Miguel Dr, California

Memory Care

Independent Living

Tiffany Court of Walnut Creek feels more like a small, tight-knit apartment community than a typical senior facility. Residents often mention the staff by name—Patti and Jan come up repeatedly in reviews, known for their warmth and hands-on approach. Staff are attentive to practical needs, whether that's helping coordinate long-term care insurance paperwork or making sure a resident has a comfortable recliner and a raised commode in their room.

Estimated Pricing

$5,136–$13,038 / mth

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Waters Edge Lodge

801 Island Dr, California 94502

Memory Care

Independent Living

Waters Edge Lodge isn’t your typical senior living spot. Families around Oakland know it for its relaxed, almost neighborly vibe—more like a small community than an institution. Residents can choose between independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so folks don’t have to move away if their needs change. The staff gets a lot of praise for being genuinely warm and attentive.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$8,556 / mth

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Byron Park

1700 Tice Valley Blvd, California 94595

Independent Living

Cardinal Point feels more like a waterfront neighborhood than a typical retirement community. Locals know it for its views of the estuary and the easy stroll to Jack London Square—residents often mention how much they enjoy the scenery and the walkability. The community is family-owned, not part of a big chain, which shows in the way staff and residents interact.

Estimated Pricing

$4,925–$7,674 / mth

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Carlton Senior Living Fremont

3800 Walnut Ave, California 94538

Memory Care

Independent Living

Carlton Senior Living Fremont feels more like a lively apartment community than a typical senior facility. Residents can choose from independent living, assisted living, or memory care, so folks with different needs can stay under one roof. The staff includes care partners, medication technicians, and an executive director who keeps things running smoothly.

Estimated Pricing

$3,069–$8,610 / mth

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Sunrise of Danville

4.2

1027 Diablo Rd, California 94526

Memory Care

Independent Living

Sunrise of Danville stands out for feeling genuinely homey and welcoming, not just polished on the surface. Families and visitors say the staff go out of their way to make transitions easier, and you’ll often hear about specific team members—like April, the Marketing Director—who personally help families settle in. The community feels relaxed and friendly, with residents greeted by name and encouraged to join activities, but never pressured.

Estimated Pricing

$3,684–$12,142 / mth

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Acacia Creek Retirement Community

4.3

34400A Mission Blvd, California 94587

Memory Care

Independent Living

Acacia Creek Retirement Community is a vibrant place where seniors can live life to the fullest. They offer a range of services including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and both short- and long-term skilled nursing care. Residents benefit from help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

Estimated Pricing

$3,124–$8,849 / mth

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Alcosta Senior & Community Center

4.1

9300 Alcosta Blvd, California 94583

Independent Living

Alcosta Senior & Community Center isn’t a care facility in the traditional sense—it’s more like the social heart for folks 55 and up in San Ramon. If you’re picturing bingo and TV rooms, think bigger. The center runs a full calendar of activities: fitness classes, hobby groups, educational workshops, and social events that keep people active and connected. There’s a big park outside with picnic tables and a gazebo, so gatherings often spill outdoors.

Estimated Pricing

$4,910–$6,160 / mth

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Important things to know about Independent Living

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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