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, 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

Devoted Caregivers San Diego

4.1

3450 Bonita Rd #103, California 91910

Independent Living

Nursing Home

Devoted Caregivers San Diego is the kind of place families in the South Bay turn to when an aging parent needs a little extra help, but you want them to stay in their own home. They focus on in-home support—things like help with bathing, dressing, meal prep, and making sure medications aren’t missed. You’ll often hear the name Yazmin come up in reviews; she leads the team and is known for being hands-on and quick to respond when families call with questions or concerns.

Estimated Pricing

$4,494–$10,891 / mth

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Kimball Senior Center

4.2

1221 D Ave, California 91950

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Kimball Senior Center is a familiar spot for older adults in National City looking for more than just a place to pass the time. Locals know it as a hub for social connection, practical health checks, and a little fun. The center runs a steady calendar of activities—think art classes, exercise groups, games, and even day trips. There’s a monthly blood pressure and diabetes screening, plus a once-a-year eyeglass program thanks to the local Lions Club.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$6,578 / mth

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MesaView Senior Assisted Living

3.9

7971 Culowee St, California 91942

Memory Care

Independent Living

MesaView Senior Assisted Living feels more like a small, close-knit community than a big facility. Families talk about how the staff here go out of their way to make residents comfortable—one person mentioned a caregiver who rearranged their dad’s room so he could use his walker more easily and even hung his pictures to make it feel like home. The staff seem to know the residents well, and they’re good about keeping families in the loop, especially when someone has special needs, like diabetes.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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Paradise Village a Generations Community

4.4

2700 E 4th St, California 91950

Memory Care

Independent Living

Paradise Village in National City is a large senior living community that feels more like a small neighborhood than a facility. It covers 12 acres and offers a mix of independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Residents have a choice of floor plans, including studios and one-bedrooms, and can bring pets along, which is a big plus for many families. The staff is led by Senior Executive Director Bill Lawson, who is known locally for being approachable and visible around the community.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$11,716 / mth

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St. Paul's Villa

4.2

2340 Fourth Ave, California 92101

Memory Care

Independent Living

St. Paul's Villa stands out in San Diego’s senior care scene for its blend of old-school community roots and modern, flexible care. This place isn’t just about ticking boxes for assisted living or memory care – it’s about creating a real sense of home, especially for folks who want to stay active and social. Residents have their own private rooms, and the staff (including 24/7 licensed nurses) get to know each person, not just their chart.

Estimated Pricing

$3,318–$8,365 / mth

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The Springs

3.6

8070 Orange Ave, California 91942

Independent Living

The Springs stands out for its strong sense of community and the way management and maintenance staff genuinely look after residents. Several long-term tenants mention living there for decades, which says a lot about stability and satisfaction. The manager, Lyly, is frequently mentioned by name—people say she knows the residents well and responds quickly to their needs.

Estimated Pricing

$4,324–$7,424 / mth

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Waterford Terrace Retirement Community

4.1

5580 Aztec Dr, California 91942

Memory Care

Independent Living

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

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Westmont of La Mesa

4.1

9000 Murray Dr, California 91942

Memory Care

Independent Living

Westmont of La Mesa is the kind of place that looks impressive when you walk in—lots of natural light, modern spaces, and a real sense of activity. What families usually notice first is how friendly and present the staff are. Residents get help with daily needs like bathing, medication reminders, and meals, but the approach is pretty individualized. There’s a full-time nurse on staff, and therapists come in as needed.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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Ivy Park at Bonita

3302 Bonita Rd, California 91910

Memory Care

Independent Living

Ivy Park at Bonita stands out for its smaller, more intimate memory care setting and the way residents and staff interact. Families often mention how the community feels friendly and welcoming, with several long-term staff members who seem to know residents well. The rooms are a good size, clean, and the layout is easy for seniors to navigate, which is especially important for those with memory issues.

Estimated Pricing

$3,050–$14,286 / mth

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Ivy Park at Otay Ranch

1290 Santa Rosa Dr, California 91913

Memory Care

Independent Living

Ivy Park at Otay Ranch stands out in Chula Vista for offering more than just a place to live – it’s a lively community where seniors can truly stay engaged. Residents here don’t just get help with daily routines; they’re encouraged to keep growing and connecting. The staff includes nurses on site for up to 16 hours a day, plus 24-hour supervision, so families know someone’s always available.

Estimated Pricing

$3,050–$14,286 / mth

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Lantern Crest

4.4

8549 Graves Ave, California 92071

Memory Care

Independent Living

Lantern Crest on Graves Ave in Santee is one of those places locals have heard about—sometimes for its resort-like look, sometimes for the stories that circulate in the senior care community. The campus itself is modern and spacious, with plenty of common areas, a library, and a wellness room. Residents can choose from independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so the place draws a mix of folks: some still active and social, others needing daily help.

Estimated Pricing

$3,457–$9,149 / mth

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San Diego TLC

3.9

8117 Jefferson St, California 91945

Independent Living

Assisted Living

San Diego TLC on Jefferson Street is a small, locally-run senior living home that offers both assisted and independent living for older adults in Lemon Grove. The place feels more like a home than a facility, with a focus on keeping residents active and engaged. Residents can take part in social gatherings, arts and crafts, and even educational workshops—there’s always something going on to keep minds and spirits up.

Estimated Pricing

$3,831–$6,330 / mth

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La Mesa Healthcare Center

3.7

3780 Massachusetts Ave, California 91941

Memory Care

Independent Living

La Mesa Healthcare Center offers a range of services including assisted living, independent living, nursing home care, and memory care. While I couldn't find specific details about the leadership at this facility, reviews from employees highlight a supportive work environment with flexible scheduling, though they mention being short-staffed at times. Families considering this option should note that some staff members have reported heavy patient loads and minimal training.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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Oakmont of Pacific Beach

4.2

955 Grand Ave, California 92109

Independent Living

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

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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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