Best Independent Living near me in San Carlos, California

San Carlos, California, located in San Mateo County, is a city nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula, approximately halfway between San Jose and San Francisco. With a population of around 30,722 as of the 2020 census, San Carlos is characterized by its residential neighborhoods and proximity to....

Best Independent Living near me in San Carlos, California

San Carlos, California, located in San Mateo County, is a city nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula, approximately halfway between San Jose and San Francisco. With a population of around 30,722 as of the 2020 census, San Carlos is characterized by its residential neighborhoods and proximity to the scenic San Francisco Bay. The city features notable landmarks such as the Pulgas Water Temple and the Hiller Aviation Museum, which attract both locals and visitors interested in aviation history and architecture.

San Carlos is renowned for its vibrant community events and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city's location near Mission Trails Regional Park and Lake Murray provides residents with access to hiking, biking, and various water activities. Additionally, San Carlos hosts an annual Independence Day fireworks show, fostering a sense of community spirit. Its blend of suburban charm and access to urban amenities makes it a desirable place to live within the Bay Area.

Costs of Independent Living in San Carlos, CA

The costs of independent living in San Carlos, California, are influenced by various factors such as location, amenities, and services offered. On average, residents can expect to pay between $3,110 and $7,828 per month for independent living facilities, which is notably higher than the national average of approximately $3,065. This pricing reflects San Carlos's elevated cost of living compared to other regions. Many communities offer flexible month-to-month rental agreements without buy-in fees, providing accessible options for seniors seeking independence. Overall, San Carlos presents a diverse range of independent living choices catering to varying budgetary needs while ensuring quality services.

Average Income in San Carlos, CA

San Carlos, California, known for its vibrant community and proximity to Silicon Valley, boasts an average household income of approximately $298,397 and a median income of $219,413. This affluent city benefits from a strong local economy driven by technology and professional services. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with amenities such as parks, excellent schools, and a variety of cultural events. The low poverty rate of 2.96% further highlights the economic stability in San Carlos, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals alike.

Ranking of San Carlos among Top Cities in California

San Carlos, California, is often ranked among the top cities in the state, recognized for its high quality of life and strong community spirit. With a median household income of $204,570, it ranks as one of the richest cities in the U.S. Located conveniently between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, it offers a suburban feel with excellent schools and numerous parks. The city boasts a low crime rate and a vibrant downtown area filled with restaurants and shops, making it an attractive place for families. Overall, San Carlos continues to enhance its reputation as a desirable location in California.

Top Independent Living Facilities in San Carlos, CA

Some of the top independent living facilities in San Carlos, CA include:

  1. Retirement Plus of San Carlos
  2. Bayview Villa
  3. San Carlos Elms
  4. Grove at San Carlos Elms

These facilities focus on providing a supportive environment with various amenities and personalized care services for their residents.


Channing House

4.5
850 Webster St, California 94301
Channing House stands out as a nonprofit, resident-driven community that’s been part of Palo Alto for decades. It’s not just about a place to live—they offer a full range of care, from independent apartments to assisted living and skilled nursing, so folks don’t have to move if their needs change. The building itself is high-rise, with sweeping views of the Bay and mountains, and apartments come with balconies. Residents can decorate their own spaces and even have pets.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Mills Estate Villa

4.5
1733 California Dr, California 94010
Mills Estate Villa is a smaller, family-run assisted living community that feels a bit more personal than some of the larger chains. It’s managed by CiminoCare, a company with a long history in Bay Area senior care. The building itself is older and has a cozy, home-like feel—residents can bring in their own decorations and even paint their rooms if they want. Staff are on-site 24/7, and there’s always someone awake at night.
Estimated Pricing
$4,137–$8,865 / mth

San Carlos Adult Community Center

4.5
601 Chestnut St, California 94070
San Carlos Adult Community Center isn’t a care home or medical facility—it's a lively gathering spot for adults, mostly 50 and up, who want to stay active, social, and independent. The center is best known for its wide mix of classes, fitness groups, and social events that run Monday through Friday. Folks drop in for everything from exercise and art to community meals, coffee chats, and card games.
Estimated Pricing
$4,681–$6,771 / mth

Veterans Memorial Senior Center

4.5
1455 Madison Ave, California 94061
Veterans Memorial Senior Center isn’t your typical senior living spot—it’s more like the social and wellness hub for older adults in Redwood City. Instead of focusing on residential care, this center feels more like a community clubhouse, packed with classes, activities, and support services. You’ll find everything from fitness and dance to expressive arts, tech help, and nutrition programs.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$7,393 / mth

Kainos Home & Training Center

4.5
3631 Jefferson Ave, California 94062
Kainos Home & Training Center stands out in Redwood City for its focus on adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, not just seniors. They offer a range of living options—some residents have their own apartments with staff dropping by as needed, while others live in licensed homes with 24-hour support. There’s even a specific program for seniors who need more hands-on care, including hospice.
Estimated Pricing
$5,111–$7,393 / mth

Atherton Gardens Senior Living

4.4
471 Santa Clara Ave, California 94061
If you want a place where your parent feels like they're part of a small, close-knit group—not just another resident—Atherton Gardens might be worth a look. Families say the staff here are genuinely warm and quick to help, and reviews mention a supportive, home-like feel that’s hard to find elsewhere. The caregivers are known for being attentive and treating everyone like family, not just clients.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

The Trousdale

4.4
1600 Trousdale Dr, California 94010
The Trousdale stands out for its thoughtful approach to senior living. It's managed by Eskaton, a nonprofit with a long track record, and owned by the Peninsula Health Care District, so there's a strong community focus rather than a corporate feel. Staff includes nurses on-site seven days a week during business hours, plus 24-hour resident care associates and medication assistants—so real people are there when you need them, not just on paper.
Estimated Pricing
$4,137–$8,865 / mth

Sunrise of San Mateo

4.4
955 S El Camino Real, California 94402
Sunrise of San Mateo is one of those places where the little details matter. Residents here get support with daily routines—things like bathing, medication reminders, and mobility help—from a team that includes care managers, nurses, and an activities director. The staff turnover is lower than average, so you’ll see a lot of familiar faces if you visit more than once. Meals are made on site, and families often mention the food is better than what you find at many other communities.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Atria at Foster Square

4.4
846 Andromeda Ln, California 94404
Atria at Foster Square stands out for families who want their loved one to feel independent, not just cared for. The building feels more like a modern apartment complex than a typical senior facility, with bright common spaces and amenities like a salon, library, and even a small movie theater.
Estimated Pricing
$3,749–$9,183 / mth

The Peninsula Regent

4.4
1 Baldwin Ave, California 94401
The Peninsula Regent is different from most senior living options because it's set up as a not-for-profit condo community—you actually buy your unit, rather than paying a non-refundable entrance fee like at many other places. That means your parent (or you) can build equity, and the unit can be passed on or sold. The vibe here is more like an upscale apartment building than a traditional retirement home.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Pacifica Senior Living Union City

4.3
33883 Alvarado-Niles Rd, California 94587
Pacifica Senior Living Union City is a mid-sized community that offers assisted living and memory care, with some independent living and short-term respite options. The care team includes certified caregiving associates on-site 24/7, and a registered nurse is on call to oversee health needs and care plans.
Estimated Pricing
$3,124–$16,309 / mth

Hayward Village Senior Apartments

4.3
22078 Arbor Ave, California 94541
Hayward Village Senior Apartments stands out as a practical, no-frills option for independent seniors who want a straightforward place to live, not a full-service retirement community. The apartments are designed for folks 55 and up who can live on their own but want a sense of community and some added conveniences.
Estimated Pricing
$4,319–$6,731 / mth

Vi at Palo Alto

4.3
620 Sand Hill Rd, California 94304
Vi at Palo Alto stands out because it feels more like a high-end residential community than a typical senior care facility. Residents can choose from spacious one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments—some with private patios or balconies—which is rare in this area. The staff includes licensed nurses and care professionals available around the clock, and families mention that the team is attentive and genuinely knows the residents by name.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

The Stratford

4.3
601 Laurel Ave, California 94401
The Stratford stands out for its condo ownership model—residents actually buy their units, which is rare among senior communities. That means more control and a real sense of home, but it’s different from the usual monthly rental. The building is an 11-story high-rise, so you get city views, and it’s right across from Central Park, which families mention as a plus for walks and visits. The community is on the smaller side, which helps people get to know each other.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / 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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