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

Sycamore Hills by the Bay

4.2

1550 Sycamore Ave #101, California 94547

Independent Living

Sycamore Hills by the Bay is a senior apartment community that feels more like a friendly neighborhood than a typical retirement complex. Residents here live independently—meaning there’s no on-site medical or daily care, but you get a safe, well-kept place to call home. What stands out is how much people mention the sense of community: neighbors look out for each other, and management is known for being genuinely responsive.

Estimated Pricing

$4,475–$7,750 / mth

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Samara Terrace Senior Apartments

4.2

102 Civic Dr, California 94547

Independent Living

Samara Terrace Senior Apartments is a small, 52-unit building for seniors who are at least 62 and meet low-income requirements. The apartments are all one-bedroom, and each has its own kitchen and bathroom—no shared living spaces like in assisted living. The building is easy to get around, with an elevator and wide hallways, and is fully accessible for folks who use walkers or wheelchairs.

Estimated Pricing

$4,475–$7,750 / mth

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Palm Tree Care Home

4.2

712 McLaughlin St, California 94805

Memory Care

Independent Living

Palm Tree Care Home is a small, residential care home with just six beds, so it feels more like a family home than a facility. The staff here are known for being attentive and hands-on—they help with everything from bathing and dressing to medication reminders and coordinating with doctors if needed. Meals are home-cooked, and residents get their own fully furnished rooms. There’s a nice garden for fresh air, and residents can join in on movie nights or daily activities if they want.

Estimated Pricing

$4,000–$12,106 / mth

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Drake Terrace

4.2

275 Los Ranchitos Rd, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

Drake Terrace feels like one of those places where people genuinely know each other’s names. It’s not the newest building in town, but the atmosphere is upbeat and welcoming—lots of natural light, and the staff seem to stick around for years, which says a lot. Families mention how approachable the team is, especially in memory care, and the activity calendar is packed: bridge, fitness classes, book clubs, movies, and more.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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The Arbors

4.2

100 Civic Dr, California 94547

Independent Living

The Arbors is a senior independent living community that feels more like a true neighborhood than a facility. What stands out here is the sense of connection—residents have easy access to the Hercules Senior Center, library, and City Hall right next door, so it’s simple to stay active and involved locally. The building itself is two stories, wrapped around a peaceful courtyard with city views.

Estimated Pricing

$4,475–$7,750 / mth

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Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco

4.2

2750 Geary Blvd, California 94118

Memory Care

Independent Living

Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco is a smaller, more intimate senior community, which means residents and their families often get to know the staff on a first-name basis. The team here is known for being warm and attentive—they pay close attention to each resident's unique needs and preferences, and families mention that staff members remember details about their loved ones, which isn't always the case at larger places.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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Harbour View Senior Apartments

4.2

25 Harbour Way, California 94801

Independent Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$5,732–$7,141 / mth

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San Rafael Commons

4.2

302 4th St, California 94901

Memory Care

Independent Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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Hana Gardens Senior Apartments

4.1

10860 San Pablo Ave, California 94530

Independent Living

Assisted Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$3,381–$7,925 / mth

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Wagaya

4.1

905 Elm St, California 94530

Independent Living

Assisted Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$3,381–$7,925 / mth

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Atria Tamalpais Creek

4.1

853 Tamalpais Ave, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Atria Tamalpais Creek stands out for its genuinely lively atmosphere and the way it prioritizes both independence and engagement for each resident. Families often mention how approachable and attentive the staff are—there’s a sense that people know each other by name, not just room number. The management team has deep experience in senior living, and there’s always a nurse on staff, along with 24-hour awake caregivers, so help is available whenever it’s needed.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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Martinelli House

4.1

1327 Lincoln Ave, California 94901

Independent Living

Martinelli House is an affordable senior apartment community focused on independent living for people 62 and older. It's not an assisted living or nursing home—residents live in their own rental apartments and handle daily tasks on their own. The building has 66 units (mostly studios and one-bedrooms), all designed with seniors in mind. Mercy Housing, a well-known nonprofit, owns and manages the property.

Estimated Pricing

$5,440–$8,005 / mth

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Grace Homes Residential Care

4.1

423 McLaughlin St, California 94805

Memory Care

Independent Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$4,000–$12,106 / mth

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Mira Flores Senior Apartments

4.1

150 S 45th St, California 94804

Independent Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$5,732–$7,141 / mth

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