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.


Bay Leaf Elderly Care Home

3.7
1168 Lyons St, California 94061
Bay Leaf Elderly Care Home is a small, six-bed board and care home run by Mayanne Avena, who is listed as the administrator and was present during recent state inspections. This place stands out for its intimate setting—families looking for a quieter, more personal environment will notice the difference right away. Residents get help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders, and there’s always someone available around the clock.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$7,914 / mth

Retirement Plus-San Carlos

3.7
612 Chestnut St, California 94070
Retirement Plus-San Carlos is a smaller, home-like senior community that focuses on hands-on help and close attention. It’s not a big, flashy place—instead, it feels more like a family home than a facility. The staff is there around the clock, helping with things like bathing, dressing, and making sure medications are taken on time. They also coordinate with doctors and outside healthcare providers, which can be a relief if your parent has ongoing medical needs.
Estimated Pricing
$3,586–$15,790 / mth

C & R Home for the Elderly

3.6
34819 Clover St, California 94587
C & R Home for the Elderly is a small, home-like place that feels a lot less like an institution and more like a real house. If your parent prefers a quieter setting with just a handful of fellow residents, this could be a good fit. The staff is known for being friendly and approachable, and they offer hands-on help with things like bathing, dressing, medication, and getting around—so you don’t have to worry about your loved one being overlooked.
Estimated Pricing
$3,124–$16,309 / mth

Lesley Terrace

3.6
2400 Carlmont Dr, California 94002
Lesley Terrace is a senior housing community in Belmont that’s been around for decades, offering both independent and assisted living options. Most of the apartments are designed for independent seniors, but there’s a dedicated floor for folks who need more help—assisted living residents get 24-hour staff support and their own dining area. Meals are included in the rent (breakfast and dinner), and lunch is available for a small extra fee.
Estimated Pricing
$5,287–$8,700 / mth

Madera Villa

3.6
1052 W Iowa Ave, California 94086
Madera Villa feels less like an institution and more like a big, extended family home. Tucked on a quiet, leafy street in Sunnyvale, it’s a small board-and-care, not a sprawling facility. Residents get real, hands-on help with daily needs—bathing, dressing, medication reminders, and even transfers if mobility is tough. What stands out is the owner’s personal involvement; families say she attends medical appointments with residents and works closely with doctors to keep care plans on track.
Estimated Pricing
$4,081–$13,676 / mth

St. Regis Tran Retirement Center

3.6
23950 Mission Blvd, California 94544
St. Regis Tran Retirement Center has gone through some big changes in recent years. What was once a traditional retirement home on Mission Blvd is now part of a larger community effort led by Bay Area Community Services (BACS). Instead of just independent living, the campus now offers a blend of permanent supportive housing, short-term recuperative care, and on-site medical services.
Estimated Pricing
$4,319–$6,731 / mth

Eden Issei Terrace

3.6
200 Fagundes St, California 94544
Eden Issei Terrace is a senior apartment community that's been around since 1985, tucked into a quieter part of Hayward. It's not a flashy place, but it offers the basics that matter: affordable independent living for older adults, especially those looking for a simpler setup. The building has 100 units across three stories, with studio and one-bedroom options. Amenities are practical—on-site parking, high-speed internet, a fitness center, and a game room.
Estimated Pricing
$4,319–$6,731 / mth

Lesley Towers

3.6
700 Laurel Ave, California 94401
Lesley Towers stands out in San Mateo because it's not your typical senior care facility—it's strictly independent living for older adults who want their own space but need affordability. What makes it unique is that it’s a HUD-supported, 12-story building with 158 studios and 40 one-bedroom apartments, each with its own kitchenette. There’s no meal program or on-site medical care, so residents need to be able to live on their own, but they do have a full-time Director of Resident Services.
Estimated Pricing
$5,049–$6,916 / mth

Paradise Care Home

3.6
27568 Gainesville Ave, California 94545
Paradise Care Home on Gainesville Ave is a smaller, local place where your parent won’t get lost in the shuffle. They focus on assisted living and memory care, with options for independent folks too. What stands out is their flexibility—residents can choose between studio, single, or even two-bedroom setups, which isn’t always the case at other homes nearby.
Estimated Pricing
$2,457–$6,956 / mth

St. Therese Care Home II

3.6
2640 Mallard Ct, California 94587
St. Therese Care Home II is a small, residential care home tucked away on a quiet street in Union City. It’s not a big, impersonal facility—this is a 6-bed home where residents get a lot of one-on-one attention. The staff here are known for being hands-on and accessible, helping with everything from bathing and dressing to medication reminders. There’s always someone around, day or night, so families don’t have to worry about their loved one being left alone if they need help.
Estimated Pricing
$3,124–$16,309 / mth

Hopkins Manor

3.6
1235 Hopkins Ave, California 94062
Hopkins Manor offers a warm, homelike environment with a focus on personalized care. Residents can choose between private and shared rooms, and enjoy three meals plus snacks daily. The community is known for its caring staff, who help seniors transition smoothly into their new home. Families appreciate the on-site beauty salon and the extra support provided by a wander alert system for those with memory impairments.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

Complete Senior Living

3.6
601 N Idaho St, California 94401
Complete Senior Living at 601 N Idaho St in San Mateo is a smaller, residential-style community that offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care. What stands out here is the home-like feel—residents aren’t just in a big facility, but in a place that feels personal and welcoming. The staff-to-resident ratio is typically higher in these board and care homes, which means more one-on-one attention, though I couldn't find specific staff names or backgrounds.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$9,780 / mth

Casa De Redwood

3.6
1280 Veterans Blvd, California 94063
Casa De Redwood isn’t your typical senior community—it’s been a quiet anchor for local elders who want to stay rooted in Redwood City without breaking the bank. Tucked along Veterans Blvd, this nonprofit offers 136 apartments specifically for low-income seniors, so residents don’t have to worry about being priced out as the Peninsula grows pricier.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

Arcadia Home Care & Staffing

3.5
951 Mariners Island Blvd, California 94404
Arcadia Home Care & Staffing stands out for its hands-on, personal approach. Instead of a one-size-fits-all plan, they match each client with a caregiver who fits their personality and routine. Families mention caregivers who become part of the daily rhythm—like one who takes daily walks with a client to keep him moving, or another who plays chess every afternoon. This kind of consistency matters, especially for seniors who thrive on routine.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Talk to an advisor

Avatar

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

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