Best Independent Living near me in Merced, California

Merced, located in California, is a vibrant city known for its rich agricultural heritage and diverse community. Situated in the San Joaquin Valley, Merced offers a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. Its proximity to national parks and major cities makes it...

Costs of Independent Living in Merced:

The cost of independent living in Merced varies depending on factors such as location, amenities, and services provided. Generally, independent living communities in Merced offer competitive pricing compared to larger metropolitan areas in California, making it an attractive option for seniors looking for affordable yet comfortable retirement living.

Average Income in Merced:

The average income in Merced reflects the city's diverse economic landscape. While specific figures may vary, the median household income in Merced tends to be lower than the statewide average. However, the cost of living in Merced is also relatively lower, allowing residents to enjoy a reasonable standard of living.

Ranking of Merced among Top Cities in California:

Merced holds a unique position among the top cities in California, offering a distinct blend of economic opportunities, cultural richness, and natural beauty. While it may not top the list in terms of population or economic output, Merced's strategic location, affordable living, and community-oriented atmosphere contribute to its appeal for residents and visitors alike.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in Merced, CA:

Sunshine Assisted Living
Pacifica Senior Living Merced
Orchard Park Assisted Living
Cedar Creek Senior Living
Prestige Assisted Living at Merced

Sierra Meadows Senior Apartments

4.3

720 W 15th St, California 95340

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Sierra Meadows Senior Apartments isn’t your typical senior care facility—it’s more of a quiet, independent living community for older adults who want their own space but still appreciate a sense of community. Residents here live in their own apartments, which means they handle most of their daily routines themselves. There’s no mention of on-site nursing or extensive personal care, so this place is best for seniors who are still pretty independent but want a safe, age-friendly environment.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$4,474 / mth

Go to provider page

Mission Gardens Assisted Living

4.2

1450 E 27th St, California 95340

Memory Care

Independent Living

Mission Gardens Assisted Living offers a cozy environment for seniors, providing a home-like atmosphere with a focus on assisted living. The facility, originally built in 1962, was transformed into an assisted living home in 2003 by Amie Marchini, a gerontologist passionate about serving seniors. It accommodates about 15 residents, ensuring a personalized approach to care. Staff assist with daily activities like dressing and bathing, and they manage medications centrally.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Park Merced Assisted Living

4.2

3050 M St, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

Park Merced Assisted Living stands out for its genuinely warm, responsive staff and a practical approach to care that families notice right away. Residents get help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication, but the team goes further—staff are praised for understanding dementia and never arguing or dismissing residents’ realities. You’ll find a lot of long-term staff here, and families often mention how caregivers and administration are both hands-on and easy to reach.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Holiday, The Hampshire

4.2

3460 R St, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

Holiday, The Hampshire stands out in Merced for its relaxed, social atmosphere and a staff that genuinely gets to know residents by name. While it’s often called an independent living community, families should know that medical care isn’t provided directly by the staff—residents are welcome to bring in outside home health services if needed. What you will find is a busy calendar of activities, friendly on-site managers, and a 24-hour call system for peace of mind.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Pacifica Senior Living Merced

4.1

3420 R St, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

Pacifica Senior Living Merced stands out for its warm, approachable staff and a genuine effort to make residents feel at home, rather than just cared for. Families often mention how the team is quick to answer questions and handle concerns, and several reviews highlight that staff members feel like old friends. The building itself feels more like a comfortable hotel than a medical facility, which can be a relief if you’re worried about that 'institutional' vibe.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

At Haven Home

4.0

644 Dartmouth Ct, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

At Haven Home in Merced, CA, offers personalized assisted living services tailored to each resident's needs. They provide daily activities assistance, medication management, transportation to doctor's appointments, and a 24-hour call system for emergencies. The facility also offers housekeeping, linen services, and meal preparation using organic ingredients.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Castle Vista Senior Duplex Community

4.0

2300 Cascade Dr, California 95301

Independent Living

Castle Vista Senior Duplex Community is a 55+ independent living neighborhood made up of single-story duplexes, originally built as officer housing for Castle Air Force Base. The atmosphere feels more like a residential community than a traditional senior complex—residents have their own front doors, driveways, and plenty of space to walk or garden. The grounds are gated and spread out over 77 acres, so there’s a sense of privacy and safety.

Estimated Pricing

$3,395–$5,107 / mth

Go to provider page

Accesscare Home of Merced

4.0

128 E Main St, California 95340

Memory Care

Independent Living

Accesscare Home of Merced is a small residential care home right in downtown Merced, set up for seniors who want a quieter, more personal environment than a big facility. The place itself is modest but clean, with private bathrooms in each room, which is a big plus for privacy and dignity. Staff are described as attentive and warm, and there’s a real emphasis on personal care—residents aren’t just numbers here.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Brookdale Apartments

3.9

1901-1923 I St, California 95340

Independent Living

Brookdale Apartments at 1901-1923 I St in Merced is mostly known for providing independent living for seniors who want their own space but still appreciate a bit of community. Residents live in standard apartment units, so your parent would have their own kitchen and living area, not a shared room or suite.

Estimated Pricing

$3,015–$4,474 / mth

Go to provider page

Center For Independent Living

3.9

710 W 18th St #5, California 95340

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Center For Independent Living isn't your typical senior care facility. Instead of focusing just on daily help or medical needs, they put a big emphasis on helping people stay as independent as possible, no matter their age or ability. The staff here often have backgrounds in advocacy and disability services, so they really understand how to support folks who want to keep control over their own lives.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$4,474 / mth

Go to provider page

Just Like Home

3.8

542 Spalding Ct, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

Just Like Home at 542 Spalding Ct feels more like a family home than a facility. It's a small, residential care home—usually just a handful of residents at a time—run by Alex and Mark, who are often mentioned by name in reviews. Families say Alex is hands-on, helping residents keep up with routines that matter to them, like beauty appointments or daily walks. Mark pitches in too, from driving folks to doctor's visits to making sure the little things get done.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

HELPING HANDS CARE HOME - ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

3.8

658 Lim St, California 95341

Memory Care

Independent Living

Helping Hands Care Home on Lim Street is a smaller, locally-run place that feels more like a family home than a big facility. The staff here are known for being approachable and genuinely getting to know the people they care for. I’ve heard from families that the owner is hands-on and makes sure everyone is treated with respect—both residents and staff. You’ll see the same faces day to day, which helps build trust, especially for folks who need a little extra support or have memory issues.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

CASTLEWOOD

3.8

2601 N Buhach Rd, California 95301

Independent Living

Castlewood isn’t your typical senior apartment complex—it’s more like a neighborhood of real houses, designed for folks 55 and up who still want space, privacy, and a sense of community. Instead of the usual small units, you’ll find roomy one- to four-bedroom homes and duplexes, each with its own garage, private patio, and full kitchen. The vibe is relaxed but social: residents can join in on bingo, Bible study, or just hang out by one of the two pools or spas.

Estimated Pricing

$3,395–$5,107 / mth

Go to provider page

Home Sweet Home

3.6

793 N Bear Creek Dr, California 95348

Memory Care

Independent Living

Home Sweet Home at 793 N Bear Creek Dr isn’t your typical senior care provider in Merced. Instead of a big, institutional feel, they focus on home-based support—meaning their team comes right to your loved one’s house. They handle the essentials: help with bathing, dressing, meals, light housekeeping, even laundry and mobility support. If you’re looking for someone to check in daily, help with medications, or just provide a little extra company, that’s what they do.

Estimated Pricing

$1,877–$7,590 / mth

Go to provider page

Talk to an advisor

Need help caring for an elder loved one? We've got you covered.

Free consultation with a Senior Advisor
Compare pricing for senior services
Comprehensive planning for you loved one

or call us directly at 1-800-22-OLERA

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

Learn more