Best Independent Living near me in Novato, California

Novato is a picturesque city located in Marin County, California, known for its suburban charm and close proximity to natural attractions like Marinwood Community Park and the...

Novato is a picturesque city located in Marin County, California, known for its suburban charm and close proximity to natural attractions like Marinwood Community Park and the Marin Country Mart. With a welcoming community and beautiful surroundings, Novato offers a peaceful living environment while being within easy reach of the vibrant city life of San Francisco.

Costs of Independent Living in Novato

The cost of independent living in Novato, CA typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,500 per month. Factors affecting the cost include the type of accommodations, the range of services provided, and the specific location within Novato.

Average Income in Novato

The average household income in Novato is approximately $95,000 per year. This income level supports a comfortable standard of living, though costs for housing and services, such as independent living, can be relatively high.

Ranking of Novato among Top Cities in California

Novato ranks as a desirable city in California due to its quality of life, safety, and scenic beauty. While it may not be among the top 10 largest cities, it is considered one of the top suburban communities in the Bay Area for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in Novato, CA:

The Redwoods
Oakmont of Novato
Aegis Living Novato
Wildflower Lodge
Creekside Villas

San Rafael Commons

4.2

302 4th St, California 94901

Memory Care

Independent Living

San Rafael Commons is a senior apartment community right in downtown San Rafael, run by BRIDGE Housing. It's not a traditional assisted living or nursing home—it's actually 83 affordable apartments for seniors and people with disabilities. Residents live independently, but the location is a big plus: you're close to public transit, shops, and services, which makes daily life a lot easier if you don't drive.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

Go to provider page

Casa Grande Senior Apartments

4.2

400 Casa Grande Rd, California 94954

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Casa Grande Senior Apartments feels more like a friendly neighborhood than a typical senior complex. Residents talk a lot about how quiet and well-kept it is—people mention the grounds are immaculate and the apartments are surprisingly spacious, especially for one-bedrooms. The staff gets a lot of praise for being helpful and quick to respond, especially maintenance, which is something families really notice when little things go wrong.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$7,274 / mth

Go to provider page

Alta Care Home

4.1

96 Alta Dr, California 94954

Memory Care

Independent Living

Alta Care Home stands out as a small, locally run senior care home where residents get a lot of personal attention—something you don’t always find in larger facilities. The staff here is known for being hands-on and attentive, helping with everything from bathing and dressing to medication reminders. It’s a tight-knit team, and families often mention how staff know each resident’s routines and preferences, which helps everyone feel more at home.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$16,194 / mth

Go to provider page

Royal Oaks Senior Community

4.1

1530 Royal Oak Dr, California 94954

Independent Living

Royal Oaks Senior Community isn’t your typical senior living spot—it’s more like a friendly neighborhood where folks over 55 can really settle in. Instead of apartments or assisted living, it’s a manufactured home community, so residents have their own space and a bit more independence. There’s a clubhouse where people gather for events, a fitness center for those who like to stay active, and even a hot tub and swimming pool for relaxing afternoons.

Estimated Pricing

$5,296–$7,274 / mth

Go to provider page

Atria Tamalpais Creek

4.1

853 Tamalpais Ave, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Atria Tamalpais Creek stands out for its genuinely lively atmosphere and the way it prioritizes both independence and engagement for each resident. Families often mention how approachable and attentive the staff are—there’s a sense that people know each other by name, not just room number. The management team has deep experience in senior living, and there’s always a nurse on staff, along with 24-hour awake caregivers, so help is available whenever it’s needed.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

Go to provider page

Martinelli House

4.1

1327 Lincoln Ave, California 94901

Independent Living

Martinelli House is an affordable senior apartment community focused on independent living for people 62 and older. It's not an assisted living or nursing home—residents live in their own rental apartments and handle daily tasks on their own. The building has 66 units (mostly studios and one-bedrooms), all designed with seniors in mind. Mercy Housing, a well-known nonprofit, owns and manages the property.

Estimated Pricing

$5,440–$8,005 / mth

Go to provider page

Senior Care Authority | Assisted Living Facility

4.1

755 Baywood Dr, California 94954

Memory Care

Independent Living

Senior Care Authority at 755 Baywood Dr isn’t a traditional assisted living facility—it’s more of a local consultancy that helps families navigate the maze of senior care options in and around Petaluma. Instead of running a residential care home, they work one-on-one with families to assess needs, recommend appropriate facilities (like assisted living, memory care, or nursing homes), and even help negotiate costs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$16,194 / mth

Go to provider page

Terra Linda Christian Homes

4.1

598 Kernberry Dr, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

Terra Linda Christian Homes is one of those smaller, family-style care homes that you don’t always find in Marin. They’ve been around since 1976, which is rare for this industry, and they run several six-bed homes across the area—including the one at 598 Kernberry Dr. This is not a big, impersonal facility. Instead, residents get a lot of hands-on attention and the place feels more like a house than an institution.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

Go to provider page

Deer Park Retirement Community

4.1

646 Canyon Rd, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Deer Park Retirement Community on Canyon Road is well-known among Novato locals for offering a blend of independent and assisted living, as well as memory care and respite options. Residents can choose from studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedroom apartments—some with patios or kitchenettes. The monthly rent covers utilities (except phone), cable, internet, and Wi-Fi, which is a relief for families watching the bottom line.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

Go to provider page

Windsong of Sonoma Senior Living

4.1

815 Wood Sorrel Dr, California 94954

Memory Care

Independent Living

Windsong of Sonoma Senior Living feels more like a small, friendly neighborhood than a big facility. They offer assisted living and memory care, plus short-term respite stays if you need a break or want to try things out before making a big decision. What stands out is how they personalize care—staff get to know each resident, so help with things like bathing, medication, or just getting around is based on what your parent actually needs, not a one-size-fits-all routine.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$16,194 / mth

Go to provider page

Goldenaires Senior Citizens

4.1

618 B St, California 94901

Independent Living

Goldenaires Senior Citizens at 618 B St in San Rafael isn’t a typical senior care facility—it’s more of a local hub for older adults who want to stay active and social. This group is geared for folks 62 and up who are looking for community, not care. You’ll find a mix of classes—woodcarving, painting, bridge, and others—plus regular events like themed luncheons, dinner dances, and a big annual craft fair.

Estimated Pricing

$5,440–$8,005 / mth

Go to provider page

Greenwood Assisted Living

4.1

233 West End Ave, California 94901

Memory Care

Independent Living

Greenwood Assisted Living in San Rafael is a smaller, home-like place that feels more personal than a lot of the bigger senior communities. Families say the staff, including Mark (who seems to be the main contact and possibly the administrator), really know the residents and pay attention to the little things—like making sure meals are enjoyable and everyone feels included at the table.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

Go to provider page

Our House Residential Care

4.1

201 Tahola Ln, California 94954

Memory Care

Independent Living

Our House Residential Care is a small, home-like assisted living facility in Petaluma that focuses on hands-on support for seniors who need help with daily activities. Residents get help with things like bathing, dressing, and managing their medications. There’s always someone available, day or night, to assist if needed. The staff coordinates with local healthcare providers, and a nurse is on staff, which can be reassuring if your parent has medical needs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$16,194 / mth

Go to provider page

Vintage Chateau | Affordable Senior Apartments 55+

4.0

333 N McDowell Blvd, California 94954

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Vintage Chateau is a senior apartment community for folks 55 and older, right off McDowell Blvd in Petaluma. What stands out here is the upbeat, friendly vibe—many residents mention how positive the atmosphere feels, and the grounds are kept impressively tidy. The apartments themselves are one- and two-bedroom units, each with central heating and air, and energy-efficient appliances.

Estimated Pricing

$3,853–$7,274 / 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