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.


BridgePoint at Los Altos

4.2
1174 Los Altos Ave, California 94022
BridgePoint at Los Altos feels more like a lively neighborhood than a typical senior residence. Residents here talk about the freedom to shape their own days—whether that means joining the gardening club, heading out for a group trip to the Stanford Shopping Center, or simply relaxing under the citrus trees that dot the property.
Estimated Pricing
$3,437–$10,487 / mth

Kimochi

4.2
453 N San Mateo Dr, California 94401
Kimochi San Mateo Residential Care offers a unique blend of cultural and personal care, drawing from its Japanese heritage. The facility provides 24-hour supervision in a secure environment, assisting with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. Residents enjoy three nutritious meals daily, often featuring Japanese-style cuisine. The community fosters social interaction through various activities, ensuring residents stay engaged and connected.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

The Terraces at Los Altos

4.2
373 Pine Ln, California 94022
The Terraces at Los Altos feels more like a small, close-knit neighborhood than a typical senior facility. Residents talk about the place being spotless and the atmosphere friendly—there’s a restaurant-style dining room, a pool, and lots of activities that keep people busy and engaged. Some families describe it as 'luxurious' and note that the memory care area especially stands out for being newer and thoughtfully designed.
Estimated Pricing
$3,437–$11,174 / mth

Palo Alto Commons

4.2
4075 El Camino Way, California 94306
Palo Alto Commons isn’t your typical senior community—it’s a busy, lived-in place where people know each other’s names and routines. Residents here can choose between independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so couples with different needs can often stay together. The staff includes folks like Li Li, the Senior Executive Director, and Jenny Huynh, the Assistant Executive Director, both of whom are visible in the community and seem to know families by name.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Therese Residential Care

4.2
1787 Rex St, California 94403
Therese Residential Care feels more like a home than a facility, which is something families mention a lot. It's a smaller place, so your parent wouldn't get lost in the shuffle—there’s a real sense of familiarity. The staff are described as genuinely caring and easy to reach, and families say the owners are hands-on and very understanding. People talk about how the staff go out of their way to keep families updated, which really helps when you can’t visit as often as you’d like.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Sterling Court

4.2
850 N El Camino Real, California 94401
Sterling Court isn’t one of those massive, impersonal senior complexes. It’s a mid-sized community where people notice if you miss breakfast. Residents mention the place feels homey, with mature trees and flowers outside, and the staff—many of whom have been there for years—are described as professional and attentive. You’ll find both independent and assisted living here, so folks can stay put even if their needs change.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

The Hamilton

4.2
555 Byron St, California 94301
The Hamilton stands out in Palo Alto because it’s a senior community made up of individually owned condos, not a typical rental or corporate-run facility. Residents have a real stake in the place, and that changes the feel—there’s a strong sense of ownership and involvement. The building has just 36 units, so it’s smaller and more personal than many local options. Families mention that it feels more like a neighborhood than an institution.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Lytton Gardens

4.2
656 Lytton Ave, California 94301
Lytton Gardens is a long-standing senior community in Palo Alto that’s known for providing a mix of affordable and market-rate housing options for older adults. They’re not just an apartment building—Lytton Gardens actually offers a blend of independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing services, which means residents can age in place even as their needs change.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Gordon Manor

4.1
1616 Gordon St, California 94061
Gordon Manor is a mid-sized senior care community with 82 beds, offering both assisted living and memory care. Residents can choose between private and shared rooms. The staff is awake and available 24/7, which is important for families needing reliable support, especially for loved ones with higher care needs. They have a reputation for handling heavier care levels, so they're comfortable supporting folks who need more hands-on help with daily activities, medication management, or mobility.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

Lytton Gardens II

4.1
649 University Ave, California 94301
Lytton Gardens II is one of those places locals know for its long history serving Palo Alto seniors, especially those looking for something affordable in a city where options can get pricey fast. The building itself shows its age—think narrow hallways and a bit of an institutional feel—but families say the staff are attentive and keep things running smoothly, even under pressure. Residents get help with daily routines like medication management, meals, and light housekeeping.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Pacific Care Home

4.1
3653 Pacific Blvd, California 94403
Pacific Care Home at 3653 Pacific Blvd feels more like a big family than a facility. It's a small, six-bed residential home, so everyone knows each other—residents, staff, and even visiting family members. What stands out right away is how open the communication is; staff keep families in the loop about everything, big or small. If your parent tries something new at lunch or has a rough day, you'll hear about it, often before you even ask.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

The Avant

4.1
4041 El Camino Way, California 94306
The Avant is a smaller, upscale senior living community in Palo Alto that really feels more like a boutique apartment complex than a typical retirement home. Residents here tend to be pretty independent and active—most folks move in for the freedom from chores and the chance to connect with others, not because they need a lot of hands-on help. The apartments are modern and well-kept, and the place has a lively social calendar: think movie nights, cultural outings, and fitness classes.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Moldaw Residences

4.1
899 E Charleston Rd, California 94303
Moldaw Residences is known around Palo Alto for its close-knit, intergenerational atmosphere and strong ties to the local Jewish community, but you don’t have to be Jewish to live there. Residents get a mix of independent living, assisted living, and memory care, all on one campus.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Ivy Park at Palo Alto

4.1
2701 El Camino Real, California 94306
Ivy Park at Palo Alto is one of those places that tries to feel less like an institution and more like a community. They offer both independent and assisted living, plus memory care for folks who need extra support. What stands out is their approach to staff—they look for people who genuinely care, not just those with credentials.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / 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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