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

Fremont Village

38801 Hastings St, California 94536

Memory Care

Independent Living

Fremont Village feels more like a small neighborhood than a big institution. Residents get their own apartment—either one or two bedrooms—with a real kitchen, laundry, and their own thermostat. Meals are provided, but if your parent likes to cook, they can. The staff is around 24/7, and they’re not just there in the background; people mention that nurses and aides check in regularly, and there are visiting doctors and therapists who come by for health needs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,069–$10,432 / mth

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G M Residential Care Home

4924 Omar St, California 94538

Memory Care

Independent Living

G M Residential Care Home feels more like a cozy house than a big facility, which is something a lot of families appreciate. With just six residents at a time, it’s small enough that everyone gets to know each other and staff can really pay attention to each person’s needs. They help with daily things like bathing, dressing, and making sure medications are taken correctly. If your parent has diabetes or needs help with incontinence, the staff are trained for that too.

Estimated Pricing

$3,069–$10,432 / mth

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Hotel Oakland

270 13th St, California 94612

Independent Living

Assisted Living

J & C Care Center stands out for families who want solid, practical care without the frills or high price tag you see at some other places. It's a medium-sized spot—about 25 beds—so it feels more personal than the big facilities. The staff has a reputation for being experienced and genuinely attentive. One family member said his wife is 'well cared for' and that the staff 'know what they're doing'—many have been there for years, which is rare in this industry.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$7,674 / mth

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J & C Care Center

4240 Redding St, California 94619

Memory Care

Independent Living

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

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Lake Park Senior Living

1850 Alice St, California 94612

Independent Living

Nursing Home

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

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Lincoln Retirement Villa

41040 Lincoln St, California 94538

Memory Care

Independent Living

Lincoln Retirement Villa is a smaller, older community that’s been around Fremont for quite a while. It’s not the fanciest place in town, but families often mention it’s more affordable than a lot of other options nearby. The staff are generally described as friendly and helpful, and they’re there 24/7 to help with things like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders.

Estimated Pricing

$3,069–$10,432 / mth

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Marymount Villa

345 Davis St #2795, California 94577

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Marymount Villa stands out for its lively atmosphere and the way it encourages residents to stay active and social. Unlike some places that feel quiet or closed off, this community is known for regular activities—think dancing, music nights, and resident-run clubs. Families often mention the building’s security: it’s gated, which gives a sense of safety that’s not always standard. The staff gets a lot of praise for being warm and approachable.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$7,674 / mth

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Mercy Retirement & Care Center

3431 Foothill Blvd, California 94601

Independent Living

Nursing Home

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

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Merrill Gardens at Rockridge

5238 Coronado Ave, California 94611

Memory Care

Independent Living

Merrill Gardens at Rockridge stands out in Oakland for its blend of flexibility and practical support. The community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care, with a focus on adapting to each resident’s changing needs. Families say the staff is attentive and responsive, and there’s always someone on site—nurses are available 24/7, and a resident call system means help is never far away.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$14,405 / mth

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Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights

2361 E 29th St, California 94606

Independent Living

Nursing Home

Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights isn’t flashy, but it’s one of those places that families in Oakland quietly rely on. The community covers a lot of ground—independent living, assisted living, memory care, and even skilled nursing—so residents don’t have to move if their needs change. The campus itself is older, with a more rustic, garden-like feel than the newer high-rise options.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$14,405 / mth

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Piedmont Gardens

110 41st St, California 94611

Memory Care

Independent Living

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

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St. Paul's Towers

100 Bay Pl, California 94610

Independent Living

Nursing Home

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

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Sunrise of Oakland Hills

11889 Skyline Blvd, California 94619

Memory Care

Independent Living

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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The Watermark by the Bay

1440 40th St, California 94608

Independent Living

Assisted Living

The Watermark by the Bay is one of those places where the details actually matter for families. Residents have a choice between assisted and independent living, with a range of apartment sizes—studios, single rooms, and even two-bedrooms. Pricing is transparent, running from about $3,700 to $11,000 per month depending on the setup.

Estimated Pricing

$3,715–$7,674 / 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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