Best Independent Living near me in San Rafael, California

San Rafael, located in Marin County, California, is a picturesque city known for its charming downtown, historic buildings, and proximity to beautiful natural landscapes like Marin County's open spaces and the San Francisco Bay. It offers a blend of suburban tranquility with access to cultural and recreational activities, making it a desirable place for people of all ages, including seniors looking for independent living options.

Costs of Independent Living in San Rafael

The average cost of independent living in San Rafael, CA, typically ranges from $3,500 to $5,500 per month. This variation depends on factors such as the level of amenities, the size of the living unit, and the specific services provided by the facility.

Average Income in San Rafael

As of recent estimates, the average household income in San Rafael is approximately $105,000 per year. This figure reflects the relatively high cost of living in the area and is indicative of the city's affluence.

Ranking of San Rafael among Top Cities in California

San Rafael is often ranked as one of the top cities in California for its quality of life, scenic beauty, and community amenities. While it may not be among the largest cities, its favorable living conditions and high income levels contribute to its high ranking in terms of overall livability.

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

Aegis Living San Rafael
The Tamalpais
Aldersly
Sunrise of San Rafael
Marinwood Community Center

Menorah Park

4.6

3365 Sacramento St, California 94118

Independent Living

Menorah Park is one of those rare places that’s both affordable and genuinely community-oriented. It’s not assisted living or a nursing home—it’s HUD-subsidized independent housing for seniors, with 151 apartments (mostly one-bedrooms, plus a handful of studios).

Estimated Pricing

$6,794–$8,884 / mth

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Marin Center for Independent Living

4.5

710 4th St, California 94901

Memory Care

Independent Living

Marin Center for Independent Living (Marin CIL) isn’t your typical senior care facility. Instead of a residential home, it’s a local nonprofit that acts as a hub for people with disabilities and older adults who want to stay independent. The team there—many of whom have lived experience with disability—help folks navigate everything from finding in-home caregivers after surgery to tracking down pharmacies for hard-to-find medications.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$9,827 / mth

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The Sequoias San Francisco

4.5

1400 Geary Blvd, California 94109

Memory Care

Independent Living

The Sequoias San Francisco is one of those places you hear about from families who want their loved ones to stay in the city, close to everything, but still have the support they need as they age. It’s a non-profit community that’s been around for decades, so there’s a real sense of stability and history here. They offer independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care—all under one roof—which means residents don’t have to move if their needs change.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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AlmaVia of San Rafael

4.5

515 Northgate Dr #101, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

AlmaVia of San Rafael stands out for a few reasons that families often notice right away. First, it’s one of the only places in Marin County offering a true continuum of care—residents can move between independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing without having to leave the community. That flexibility is a huge relief for families, especially when needs change over time.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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The Carlisle

4.5

1450 Post St, California 94109

Independent Living

Assisted Living

The Carlisle is a senior living community that feels more like a well-run boutique hotel than an institution. Residents can choose between independent and assisted living, and the building itself is bright, modern, and has lovely city views. The staff includes 24/7 care professionals, and there’s always someone around to help with things like medication reminders or personal care if needed.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$8,884 / mth

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Villa Marin

4.5

100 Thorndale Dr, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

Villa Marin is a retirement community that's more like a condo complex than a traditional senior home. Residents actually purchase their units, so there’s a significant buy-in upfront, plus ongoing monthly fees. This model attracts folks who want a sense of ownership and stability. The place is known for its friendly, long-term staff—many reviews mention how helpful and attentive they are, especially in the independent and assisted living areas.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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The Vincent

4.4

1 Las Gallinas Ave, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

The Vincent is a smaller, family-run senior living community that feels less like a big institution and more like a well-kept apartment building with a friendly vibe. People say the building was designed specifically for seniors, so you’ll notice thoughtful touches like soundproof walls and grab bars that blend in with the décor rather than looking clinical.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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Elegance Berkeley

4.4

2100 San Pablo Ave, California 94702

Memory Care

Independent Living

Elegance Berkeley stands out for its strikingly modern design—think mid-century touches, lots of natural light, and a courtyard that’s actually used by residents, not just for show. The building is fairly new, so everything feels fresh and well-kept. Residents can choose from independent living, assisted living, or memory care, and there’s a visible effort to create a lively atmosphere with regular music events and intergenerational arts programs.

Estimated Pricing

$3,591–$12,659 / mth

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L'Chaim House II

4.4

463 Nova Albion Way, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

L'Chaim House II is a small, homey care home tucked into a quiet San Rafael neighborhood. With space for just six residents, it feels more like a family than an institution. Staff help with the basics—bathing, dressing, grooming, and getting around—and they're known for being attentive and patient. Meals are home-cooked every day, and the kitchen is flexible about special diets, whether that's low-salt, diabetic-friendly, or something else your loved one needs.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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Rhoda Goldman Plaza

4.4

2180 Post St, California 94115

Memory Care

Independent Living

Rhoda Goldman Plaza stands out for its focus on real, personalized care and a strong sense of community. Unlike many places that feel institutional, this one is known for its bright, airy apartments and a staff that actually gets to know residents by name. The team includes tenured professionals—many have been there for years—which makes a difference in continuity and relationships.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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Rose Arbor Senior Residential Care

4.4

5901 Rose Arbor Ave, California 94806

Memory Care

Independent Living

Rose Arbor Senior Residential Care is a small, residential-style senior home tucked into a quiet Richmond neighborhood. It's not a big, flashy facility—think more of a converted house with a handful of residents, so the atmosphere feels personal. They offer assisted living, memory care, and independent living, but the focus seems to be on supporting folks who need some daily help, especially with things like medication reminders, meals, and bathing.

Estimated Pricing

$4,000–$7,153 / mth

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LilyPad Senior Assisted Living Advisors - Marin County, Sonoma County, Napa and Surrounding Communities

4.3

926A Diablo Ave #408, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

LilyPad Senior Assisted Living Advisors is a local referral and placement service based in Novato, serving Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and nearby communities. They help families sort through the maze of senior living options—everything from assisted living and memory care to board and care homes, independent living, and nursing facilities.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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The Exchange at Bayfront

4.3

2525 Bayfront Blvd, California 94547

Independent Living

The Exchange at Bayfront is not your typical senior care provider—it's actually a newer apartment community that offers independent living, but without the built-in medical or personal care services you might expect from traditional senior living. What stands out here is the modern, airy design and the variety of floor plans, from studios to three-bedroom units.

Estimated Pricing

$4,475–$7,750 / mth

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Coterie Cathedral Hill

4.3

1001 Van Ness Ave, California 94109

Memory Care

Independent Living

Coterie Cathedral Hill stands out for families who want more than just a place for their loved ones to live—they want a place where life still feels full. Residents talk about the food first: not just edible, but genuinely delicious, with a chef who seems to know how to make every meal feel special. Meals are a social event, and the dining room buzzes with conversation. The apartments themselves get rave reviews for their smart-home features, natural light, and open floor plans.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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