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.


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

Newark Gardens

3.5
35322 Cedar Blvd, California 94560
Newark Gardens stands out as an affordable senior living community that really focuses on independent living. The property has 150 apartments—almost all are one-bedrooms, with a rare two-bedroom option—so it’s designed for folks who want their own space but still want to be part of a senior community. The building is elevator-served, which makes it accessible for people with mobility issues.
Estimated Pricing
$4,058–$7,521 / mth

San Mateo Villa

3.5
1661 McKinley St, California 94403
San Mateo Villa feels more like a cozy home than a facility. It's a small, residential-style assisted living house, not a big complex, which means your parent would be living in a real neighborhood setting. The staff gets a lot of praise for being genuinely caring and attentive—families mention that the owner is involved and the team is responsive to each resident’s needs. Meals are cooked fresh, and people say the food is actually good (which isn’t always the case in senior care).
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Greenpoint Care Homes

3.4
5606 Greenpoint Ct, California 94560
Greenpoint Care Homes sits in a quiet Newark neighborhood and offers a small, home-like setting for seniors who need extra support. The facility is licensed for just six residents, which means staff can pay close attention to each person's daily needs. Residents get help with bathing, dressing, and meals, and the kitchen serves up three homemade meals a day. If someone has special dietary needs—like diabetes or high blood pressure—the staff can adjust menus as needed.
Estimated Pricing
$3,125–$14,382 / mth

Colonial Acres Resident Care

3.2
18905 Standish Ave, California 94541
Colonial Acres Resident Care is a smaller, home-like assisted living place tucked into a residential area. From what I found, it’s not a big, flashy facility—think more like a converted house with a handful of residents, so your parent wouldn’t feel lost in the crowd. They help with daily things like bathing, dressing, and meals, and the staff is around to keep an eye on medications. I didn’t see any mention of specialized dementia care, so if that’s needed, it’s worth asking directly.
Estimated Pricing
$2,457–$6,731 / mth

Wesley Gardens

3.2
2655 Alma St, California 94306
Wesley Gardens at 2655 Alma Street is known in Palo Alto as a spot for seniors who want to maintain their independence but appreciate a little extra support. The community focuses on independent living, meaning residents have their own apartments and can come and go as they please, but there’s always someone around if help is needed. The management team is led by Robert Jones (President and CEO) and Rich Mileo (Director of Finance), both of whom have a background in senior living operations.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$7,675 / mth

Nida's Care Home

2.9
34923 Osprey Dr, California 94587
Nida's Care Home is a small, family-run assisted living home that’s been around since 2008. It’s licensed for up to six residents, which means your loved one won’t get lost in the shuffle. The place is managed by Leonida Ramos, who’s listed as the director and owner. She’s been running the home for over 17 years, and there are usually about three staff members on hand. Families mention the staff are friendly, respectful, and really listen to residents’ needs.
Estimated Pricing
$5,030–$16,309 / 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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