Best Independent Living near me in San Mateo, California

San Mateo, located in the heart of the Bay Area in California, is a vibrant and diverse city known for its suburban charm, scenic beauty, and proximity to major tech hubs. With a rich history and a thriving community, San Mateo offers a mix of...

Best Independent Living near me in San Mateo, California

San Mateo, located in the heart of the Bay Area in California, is a vibrant and diverse city known for its suburban charm, scenic beauty, and proximity to major tech hubs. With a rich history and a thriving community, San Mateo offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and recreational spaces. The city's central location provides convenient access to both the Silicon Valley and San Francisco, making it an attractive place for residents seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Costs of Independent Living in San Mateo:

Independent living costs in San Mateo can vary based on factors such as housing, healthcare, and daily expenses. As part of the Bay Area, the city generally experiences higher living costs compared to the national average. However, the availability of diverse housing options and amenities allows residents to choose accommodations that align with their budget and preferences. It's advisable for individuals considering independent living in San Mateo to carefully evaluate the cost of living and plan accordingly.

Average Income in San Mateo:

San Mateo boasts a robust economy with a median household income that reflects the affluence of the region. The average income in San Mateo, CA, is notably higher than the national average, driven largely by the presence of technology companies and a strong job market. This economic prosperity contributes to the city's high quality of life and supports a range of amenities and services for its residents.

Ranking of San Mateo among Top Cities in California:

San Mateo consistently ranks among the top cities in California, thanks to its desirable location, economic stability, and excellent quality of life. Its central position within the Bay Area, coupled with well-planned infrastructure, has contributed to its reputation as an attractive place to live. Residents benefit from a combination of urban conveniences, cultural offerings, and natural beauty, placing San Mateo in high regard among the top cities in the state.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in San Mateo, CA:

  • Serenity Senior Care
  • The Peninsula Regent
  • Atria Hillsdale
  • Sunrise of San Mateo
  • Sterling Court
  • Casa De Miramar
  • Brookdale San Mateo

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

Peninsula Del Rey

4.1
165 Pierce St, California 94015
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.
Estimated Pricing
$3,654–$13,037 / mth

The Villa at San Mateo Apartments

4.1
4000 S El Camino Real, California 94403
The Villa at San Mateo isn’t your typical senior apartment complex. It’s designed for folks 55 and older who want to keep their independence but appreciate a little extra support and a lively social scene. Residents get their own one- or two-bedroom apartments, each with a full kitchen, walk-in closets, and plenty of natural light. There’s a heated outdoor pool, a fitness center, a movie lounge, and even a game room—so there’s always something to do.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$6,916 / mth

Webster House

4.1
401 Webster St, California 94301
Webster House in Palo Alto isn’t a flashy place, but it’s known for being steady and reliable for older adults who want options. They offer independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing all under one roof, which makes transitions easier if your loved one’s needs change. The building itself is older, but it’s well-kept, and residents mention that the atmosphere feels more like a small community than a big facility.
Estimated Pricing
$4,667–$14,190 / mth

Palm Villas Memory Care

4.1
1931 Woodside Rd, California 94061
Palm Villas Memory Care is one of those rare places that feels more like a big family home than a facility. The staff really stands out—many have been there for years, and you see the same faces day after day, which is comforting for both residents and families. Gary, the owner, is hands-on and genuinely cares about the residents, and Nora keeps the office running smoothly.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

Ava Bella Care Home

4.1
2483 Balmoral St, California 94587
Ava Bella Care Home is a small, family-run place that feels more like a real home than a facility. The owner, Joy, is hands-on and gets mentioned in reviews for treating residents like her own family—she listens to what people want and tries to make them comfortable, not just safe. Her daughter helps out, too, and people say she’s smart and attentive. There are only six residents at a time, so everyone gets a lot of personal attention.
Estimated Pricing
$3,124–$16,309 / mth

Kensington Place Redwood City

4.1
2800 El Camino Real, California 94061
Kensington Place Redwood City really stands out for families who want more than just basic care for their loved ones. People talk about the staff being not only well-trained, especially in memory care, but also genuinely warm and attentive. There’s a real sense that the team knows each resident personally—families mention that staff turnover is low and that caregivers go out of their way to keep everyone engaged and happy.
Estimated Pricing
$3,079–$11,976 / mth

Pacifica Senior Living Burlingame

4.1
250 Myrtle Rd, California 94010
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.
Estimated Pricing
$4,137–$8,865 / mth

Bayview Villa

4.0
777 Bay Vw Dr, California 94070
Bayview Villa in San Carlos is a smaller, family-owned community that focuses heavily on residents with higher care needs, especially those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. It has about 44 private studio apartments, each with its own bathroom, allowing residents to personalize their space. The setting is quiet and woodsy, with views of the San Francisco Bay, which many families find calming for their loved ones.
Estimated Pricing
$3,586–$15,790 / mth

Pacific Oaks Senior Apartments

4.0
750 Oddstad Blvd, California 94044
Pacific Oaks Senior Apartments is designed for folks 62 and up who want to live independently but still have a sense of community. The place feels more like a classic apartment complex than a care facility—think private one- and two-bedroom units with their own kitchens, not shared rooms. Residents handle their own day-to-day needs, but there’s a social side: bingo, movie nights, and other group activities are regular events.
Estimated Pricing
$4,180–$6,705 / mth

Serra Highlands Senior Living

4.0
501 King Dr, California 94015
Serra Highlands Senior Living feels more like a mid-sized apartment building than an institution. Residents have their own private rooms—some are studios, others have a small living area for a table and couch. Each room has a private bathroom, and the larger ones can fit a few personal touches.
Estimated Pricing
$3,654–$13,037 / mth

Vanessa Care Home II

4.0
1640 Eleanor Dr, California 94402
Vanessa Care Home II is a small, home-like senior care residence in San Mateo, set up for folks who want a quieter environment and more personal attention than you’d get in a big facility. The staff here are known for being attentive and genuinely getting to know each resident—families often mention how the team goes out of their way to help with everything from medication reminders to arranging rides for doctor visits.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$11,098 / mth

Arcadian Residential Community

4.0
24647 Mohr Dr, California 94545
Arcadian Residential Community stands out for being a smaller, more personal place where staff really get to know the residents. Families who've placed loved ones here often mention how the caregivers are warm and attentive—there’s a sense that people aren’t just numbers. Residents get help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication, and there’s a 24-hour call system for peace of mind. The place is clean, and the staff are consistently described as friendly and responsive.
Estimated Pricing
$2,457–$12,938 / mth

Enchanted Garden for Seniors

4.0
188 Starlite Dr, California 94402
Enchanted Garden for Seniors is a very small, home-like assisted living community in San Mateo that feels more like a close-knit household than a typical care facility. It only houses up to six residents, which means the staff can really get to know each person and tailor support to their daily needs. They handle everything from help with bathing and dressing to medication management, all with 24-hour supervision.
Estimated Pricing
$4,619–$9,780 / 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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