Best Independent Living near me in National City, California

National City, CA, is a diverse and vibrant community located in San Diego County, just south of downtown San Diego. Known for its rich cultural heritage and close-knit community atmosphere...

Best Independent Living near me in National City, California

National City, CA, is a diverse and vibrant community located in San Diego County, just south of downtown San Diego. Known for its rich cultural heritage and close-knit community atmosphere, National City offers a range of amenities and services to its residents. The city features a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and local businesses, making it an attractive location for both families and retirees.

Costs of Independent Living in National City

The cost of independent living in National City varies depending on the facility and level of service provided. On average, residents can expect to pay between $2,500 and $4,500 per month for independent living accommodations. These costs typically cover amenities such as housing, meals, and basic care services, with additional charges for any extra services or personal care needs.

Average Income in National City

As of the most recent data, the average household income in National City is approximately $60,000 per year. This figure reflects the general economic environment of the city and provides a context for the affordability of various living options, including independent living facilities.

Ranking of National City among Top Cities in California

National City is ranked as one of the lower-cost cities in California when compared to other major urban areas. While it may not be among the top-ranked cities in terms of overall affluence, it offers a more affordable living option within the San Diego metropolitan area, making it a desirable location for many retirees.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in National City, CA:

  • The Arbors at National City
  • Royal Gardens
  • Villa Bonita Senior Living
  • Cedar Creek
  • Brookdale Chula Vista

Vi at La Jolla Village

4.5
8515 Costa Verde Blvd, California 92122
Vi at La Jolla Village is a Life Plan Community, sometimes called a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), that gives older adults a way to age in place with a safety net of care options. Residents start out in independent living—think apartments with access to a salt-filtered pool, fitness classes, and a packed calendar of activities—but if needs change, they can move into assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, all on the same campus.
Estimated Pricing
$4,494–$10,891 / mth

Fredericka Manor Retirement Community in Chula Vista

4.3
183 3rd Ave, California 91910
Fredericka Manor stands out in Chula Vista for its genuine sense of community and history. Locals know it as one of the area’s oldest senior living spots, with roots going back over a century. It’s not just a building—it’s a 24-acre campus dotted with garden cottages, walking paths, and even a lily pond that’s become a bit of a landmark. Residents can choose from independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care, all on one property.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$14,286 / mth

Grossmont Gardens Senior Living

4.3
5480 Marengo Ave, California 91942
Grossmont Gardens Senior Living is one of those places locals talk about when someone needs more than just a safe apartment. The staff here actually gets mentioned by name in reviews—Christina, Suzette, and Alice are a few who come up, especially in memory care. Families say the team is attentive, and there’s a real effort to communicate, like using text messaging to keep loved ones in the loop.
Estimated Pricing
$2,547–$8,312 / mth

Lantern Crest Senior Living

4.3
800 Lantern Crst Wy, California 92071
Lantern Crest Senior Living is the kind of place where families often notice the atmosphere right away—it feels lively, not stuffy. The community offers several levels of care, including independent and assisted living, as well as memory care. Residents have access to a lot of activities, from art classes and exercise groups to movie nights and outings. The rooms are spacious, and many have their own balconies, which families really appreciate.
Estimated Pricing
$3,457–$9,149 / mth

Oakmont of Pacific Beach

4.2
955 Grand Ave, California 92109
Oakmont of Pacific Beach stands out for its upscale, resort-like setting and a focus on both independent and assisted living, as well as memory care. Unlike many senior communities, Oakmont offers genuinely large apartments—studios up to two-bedrooms—that give residents more personal space than most places in San Diego. The dining program is a highlight: meals are made from scratch daily, and the culinary team includes chefs with backgrounds from top culinary schools and restaurants.
Estimated Pricing
$4,494–$6,738 / mth

Congregational Tower

4.1
288 F St, California 91910
Congregational Tower is a community that offers both assisted and independent living options for seniors in Chula Vista, CA. They have a range of accommodations, including studio and one-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and safety features like emergency call systems. The community is well-equipped with amenities like a community kitchen, laundry room, arts and crafts room, and an outdoor patio with BBQ facilities.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$6,212 / mth

Kiku Gardens

4.1
1260 3rd Ave, California 91911
Kiku Gardens is a spot that a lot of local families turn to when their parents need a little extra help but still want to keep some independence. The building itself isn’t fancy, but it’s clean and feels safe. Most people here have their own apartments—either studios or one-bedrooms—so it doesn’t feel institutional. Staff help with things like meals, laundry, and medication reminders, but they don’t hover.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$6,212 / mth

Plaza Village Senior Living

4.1
950 L Ave, California 91950
Plaza Village Senior Living is a community where residents can get more than just basic care—they can keep a sense of home and independence, even if they need extra support. The setup is different from most places: instead of long hallways and big dining rooms, residents live in smaller 'neighborhoods' with just a few bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a shared living space. This makes it feel more like a real home and less like an institution.
Estimated Pricing
$3,819–$11,716 / mth

Atria La Jolla

4.0
4025 Pulitzer Pl, California 92122
Atria La Jolla feels more like an upscale condo community than a typical senior residence. The apartments come with full kitchens, private patios or balconies, and even Alexa smart home devices—so residents can adjust the thermostat or call the front desk with just their voice. The community is known for its lively social calendar, with everything from art classes to group outings and happy hours. There’s a heated pool and hot tub, plus a beauty salon on site.
Estimated Pricing
$4,494–$6,738 / mth

Pacifica Senior Living Bonita

4.0
3434 Bonita Rd, California 91910
Pacifica Senior Living Bonita stands out for its warm, lively atmosphere and the way staff genuinely interact with residents. Families often mention the upbeat mood — you’ll see residents chatting over meals or joining group activities, not just sitting in their rooms. The apartments have little kitchenettes, so folks who like their independence can still make a cup of tea or snack when they want. Rooms are bright, and some are being updated, which families appreciate.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$14,286 / mth

Waterford Terrace Retirement Community

4.0
5580 Aztec Dr, California 91942
Waterford Terrace Retirement Community is known around La Mesa for its friendly, low-key atmosphere and practical approach to senior living. The community focuses on independent living, but families should know that assisted living and memory care are handled through outside providers, not by Waterford’s own staff.
Estimated Pricing
$2,547–$14,078 / mth

Westmont at San Miguel Ranch

4.0
2325 Proctor Valley Rd, California 91914
Westmont at San Miguel Ranch is one of those places that draws families looking for something a little more personal than a big corporate chain. Residents here can choose between independent apartments, assisted living, and memory care, all under one roof. The staff is a mix of long-timers and newer faces, but the community's administrator, Jessica Zepeda, is a steady presence and often mentioned by families for her hands-on approach.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$14,286 / mth

Monte Vista Village

3.8
2211 Massachusetts Ave, California 91945
Monte Vista Village feels more like a small neighborhood than a typical care facility. The campus is spread over eight acres, with lots of trees, gardens, and even a fish pond and waterfall—residents can actually stroll outside or relax by the pool, which is rare in this area. The staff includes registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, and there’s always someone awake and available at night, not just on call.
Estimated Pricing
$3,831–$8,768 / mth

Pacific Pointe Independent Living

3.8
171 4th Ave, California 91910
Pacific Pointe Independent Living stands out for its genuinely warm, neighborly atmosphere and a staff that seems to know residents by name. You’ll notice right away that this place doesn’t feel institutional – it’s more like a friendly apartment community where folks look out for each other. Residents often mention how approachable and helpful the staff are, from the receptionist who gives tours to the team handling daily needs.
Estimated Pricing
$3,050–$14,286 / 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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