Independent living in San Francisco, CA is an attractive option for seniors who are still active and able to live on their own but desire the convenience of support services such as...
Independent Living in San Francisco, California
Independent living in San Francisco, CA is an attractive option for seniors who are still active and able to live on their own but desire the convenience of support services such as transportation, meal preparation, and housekeeping. It offers a variety of amenities including fitness centers, swimming pools, and community events. Independent living is different than assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, which offer more extensive care and medical attention. San Francisco has many options for independent living, including The Village at Hayes Valley, The Broadmoor, and Rhoda Goldman Plaza. The cost of independent living in San Francisco is higher than average within California, due to the city's high cost of living. However, the average income in San Francisco is also higher than average in California. San Francisco ranks as one of the top cities in California in terms of quality of life for seniors.
Harbour View Senior Apartments sits right in the heart of Richmond, just steps from the bus line and a short walk to local shops and parks. The building is designed for independent seniors—folks who want their own space but also appreciate a sense of community. Residents get their own one- or two-bedroom apartment, each with a small patio or balcony. The kitchens have energy-efficient appliances, which is handy for those watching utility costs.
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.
Hana Gardens Senior Apartments isn’t your typical senior housing—it’s a thoughtfully designed community with a real sense of place. The property honors El Cerrito’s Japanese heritage, and you’ll notice this right away in the public plaza and heritage garden, which aren’t just for show but serve as gathering spots for residents and neighbors alike. The buildings are modern, with two four-story wings and a renovated historic florist shop that now serves as a community room.
Wagaya stands out for its small, home-like setting—just six residents at a time—which means everyone gets truly personal attention. The staff is known for being especially attentive to cultural needs, with several families mentioning how well they cared for Japanese-speaking elders. One review highlights how the team gently supported a first-generation Japanese mother, even as her English faded, which is rare to find locally.
Grace Homes Residential Care stands out in Richmond for its genuinely homey atmosphere and small, tight-knit setting. Instead of feeling like a large facility, it’s more like a cozy house where everyone knows each other by name. Residents get hands-on help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication, but there’s also a real effort to keep folks as independent as possible.
Peninsula Del Rey stands out in Daly City for a few practical reasons. First, the staff includes both registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), so medical support is always nearby—not just for emergencies, but for things like wound care, oxygen therapy, and managing special diets, including diabetic needs. They can also help residents under 60 and those with mild dementia, which isn’t always the case at other places.
Mira Flores Senior Apartments isn’t just another senior living complex—it’s a piece of Richmond’s history, built on land once home to Japanese family-run flower nurseries for over a century. The building is modern, but the roots run deep: the project took nearly 20 years and a partnership between Eden Housing, CHDC, and the city to bring affordable senior housing to life.
Heritage on the Marina is one of those rare places that feels more like a historic San Francisco home than a facility. The building itself is a Julia Morgan design, so you get that old-world charm with high ceilings, woodwork, and a real sense of place. They serve about 110 residents, which means it's not overwhelming—folks get to know each other and the staff well. Staff are on-site around the clock, handling everything from medication reminders to help with dressing and mobility.
RN3 Loving Care Homes isn’t a big, impersonal facility—it’s a family-run place that’s been part of the El Cerrito community for over 17 years. Locals know it for its small, homey feel and the way the staff gets to know each resident as a person, not just a name on a chart. The owner, Mina, is hands-on and often mentioned by families for her attentiveness and willingness to communicate about changes in a loved one’s condition.
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.
Oakmont of Mariner Point has a reputation for really focusing on the details that matter day-to-day. Residents can get help with things like bathing, dressing, and managing medications, but what stands out is the extra support—there’s a full-time nurse on staff and a wellness center that handles things like physical, speech, and occupational therapy, plus psychological services and even podiatry.
Pacifica Senior Living Burlingame stands out for its genuinely warm atmosphere and hands-on leadership. Residents and families often mention how approachable the staff are, from the executive director Stephanie Brice to the activities director Jazline Marian. There’s a real effort to keep people engaged—think cookie decorating, arts programs, and daily activities tailored to different interests.
Berkeley Town House isn’t your typical senior living spot—it feels more like a lively co-op than an institution. Residents here are mostly active folks 55 and up, and the vibe is social and engaged. The building itself is a mid-century high-rise with about 70 units, many with sweeping views of the Bay and the city.
AEC Living stands out in Alameda because it's still run by the Zimmerman family, who have been caring for local seniors for over 50 years. Their roots in the community show—many staff have been there for years and know residents by name, not just by room number. The company operates several locations, including Waters Edge Lodge and Elders Inn, plus a Medicare-approved therapy service and even a senior co-housing option called Phoenix Commons.
