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

Windsor Gardens Convalescent Center of San Diego

3.5

220 E 24th St, California 91950

Memory Care

Independent Living

Windsor Gardens Convalescent Center of San Diego stands out mainly for its strong focus on skilled nursing and short-term rehab, with a reputation for reliable care. Families often mention specific staff members by name—Bianca, Eddie, and Speedy—who have made a real difference for residents, which isn’t something you see everywhere. The facility offers a wide range of medical services, from physical and occupational therapy to diabetes management, IV antibiotics, and even mental health support.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$11,716 / mth

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Fredericka Manor Retirement Community in Chula Vista

183 3rd Ave, California 91910

Memory Care

Independent Living

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

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Casa El Cajon

3.3

306 Shady Ln, California 92021

Memory Care

Independent Living

Casa El Cajon is a smaller, locally-run senior community at 306 Shady Lane, known for its hands-on approach and a staff that’s attentive around the clock. The administrator, Amparo M. Munasque, is listed as the facility’s lead, which suggests a family-style management rather than a corporate chain. Residents get help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders.

Estimated Pricing

$3,607–$11,456 / mth

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Hilldale Habilitation Center

3.5

7979 La Mesa Blvd, California 91942

Memory Care

Independent Living

Hilldale Habilitation Center is one of those places that’s been around long enough—over 30 years—that you can usually find someone in La Mesa who knows a resident or staff member there. They focus on supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, not just seniors. What stands out is their Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) status, which means they’re licensed for people who need more than basic help but don’t require full nursing home care.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$8,312 / mth

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Lexington Senior

3.6

250 E Lexington Ave, California 92020

Independent Living

Lexington Senior at 250 E Lexington Ave is an independent living community that feels more like a friendly apartment complex than a traditional senior facility. Residents have their own private apartments, and the building is kept very clean—something families notice right away. The staff here gets a lot of praise for being approachable and genuinely helpful.

Estimated Pricing

$4,494–$6,761 / mth

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Sungarden Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care

3.8

2045 Skyline Dr, California 91945

Memory Care

Independent Living

Sungarden Terrace feels more like a small neighborhood than a typical senior facility. Residents have access to a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a theater lounge, putting green, and gardens where people actually spend time—not just a patch of grass out front. Meals are served restaurant-style, and the kitchen tries to accommodate individual tastes and dietary needs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,831–$8,768 / mth

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Caluya's Residential Care

4.3

2835 E Plaza Blvd, California 91950

Memory Care

Independent Living

Caluya's Residential Care in National City offers a warm, home-like environment for seniors. They focus on helping residents maintain a balanced quality of life with assistance in daily activities, medication management, and transportation for medical purposes. The facility is licensed for six residents, providing a personalized and intimate setting. While specific staff details aren't available, the emphasis is on creating a safe and nurturing space where residents can thrive.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$11,716 / mth

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Care Partners Assisted Living

3.3

902 Euclid Ave, California 91950

Memory Care

Independent Living

Care Partners Assisted Living at 902 Euclid Ave is a smaller, home-like senior care home tucked into a residential part of National City. Unlike the big, resort-style communities you see advertised, this place feels more like a family house than a facility. Residents share common spaces, and meals are usually cooked fresh in the kitchen—no cafeteria lines or set menus.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$11,716 / mth

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Care Plus Mansion

4.1

2579 Windmill View Rd, California 92020

Memory Care

Independent Living

If you're looking for a place where your parent can get real support without feeling lost in the shuffle, Care Plus Mansion is worth a look. It's a smaller, home-like setting, so the staff really gets to know each resident—you're not just a room number here. From what families say, people appreciate how attentive and kind the caregivers are, especially with memory care. There are nurses on staff and a doctor on call, which is reassuring if your loved one has changing health needs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,607–$11,456 / mth

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Carroll's Residential Care

3.1

655 S Mollison Ave, California 92020

Memory Care

Independent Living

Carroll's Residential Care at 655 S Mollison Ave is one of those places in El Cajon that locals talk about, but not always for the right reasons. While the brochures and online listings paint a picture of a lively assisted living community with activities and attentive care, the reality from recent reviews is far less rosy.

Estimated Pricing

$3,607–$11,456 / mth

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Parkway Garden Retirement Care Home

3.4

660 Van Houten Ave, California 92020

Memory Care

Independent Living

Parkway Gardens Retirement Care Home is a smaller, home-like assisted living spot where residents get help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders. The staff are often described as kind and attentive, and families say their loved ones are treated with respect. Rooms are shared or private, usually with a shared bathroom, and the place is kept clean—no strong odors, which is a good sign.

Estimated Pricing

$3,607–$11,456 / mth

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Say You're Home

3.4

5971 Lake Murray Blvd, California 91942

Memory Care

Independent Living

Say You're Home is a small, residential care home for seniors—think of it as a cozy house, not a big facility. They have room for just six residents, each with their own private bedroom, so everyone gets a lot of personal attention. The administrator, Lisa Sayre, is listed as the person in charge, and families often mention that the staff is experienced and genuinely attentive.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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Kiku Gardens

1260 3rd Ave, California 91911

Independent Living

Assisted Living

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

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Angels Guest Home

4.4

9208 Bellagio Rd, California 92071

Memory Care

Independent Living

Angels Guest Home on Bellagio Road is a small, residential care home that feels more like a family house than an institution. The staff-to-resident ratio is low, so residents get a lot of personal attention—things like help with bathing, getting dressed, and reminders for medication. I’ve seen residents who need walkers or wheelchairs move around easily, since the home is all on one level and set up for accessibility.

Estimated Pricing

$3,457–$9,149 / 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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