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

Terra Linda Christian Homes

4.1

598 Kernberry Dr, California 94903

Memory Care

Independent Living

Terra Linda Christian Homes is one of those smaller, family-style care homes that you don’t always find in Marin. They’ve been around since 1976, which is rare for this industry, and they run several six-bed homes across the area—including the one at 598 Kernberry Dr. This is not a big, impersonal facility. Instead, residents get a lot of hands-on attention and the place feels more like a house than an institution.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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Deer Park Retirement Community

4.1

646 Canyon Rd, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Deer Park Retirement Community on Canyon Road is well-known among Novato locals for offering a blend of independent and assisted living, as well as memory care and respite options. Residents can choose from studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedroom apartments—some with patios or kitchenettes. The monthly rent covers utilities (except phone), cable, internet, and Wi-Fi, which is a relief for families watching the bottom line.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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Heritage on the Marina

4.1

3400 Laguna St, California 94123

Independent Living

Nursing Home

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.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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RN3 Loving Care Homes - Assisted Living for Senior

4.1

8320 Buckingham Dr, California 94530

Independent Living

Nursing Home

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.

Estimated Pricing

$3,381–$13,000 / mth

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Goldenaires Senior Citizens

4.1

618 B St, California 94901

Independent Living

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.

Estimated Pricing

$5,440–$8,005 / mth

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Greenwood Assisted Living

4.1

233 West End Ave, California 94901

Memory Care

Independent Living

Greenwood Assisted Living in San Rafael is a smaller, home-like place that feels more personal than a lot of the bigger senior communities. Families say the staff, including Mark (who seems to be the main contact and possibly the administrator), really know the residents and pay attention to the little things—like making sure meals are enjoyable and everyone feels included at the table.

Estimated Pricing

$5,334–$13,300 / mth

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Gericare of Richmond

4.0

804 Johnson Dr, California 94806

Memory Care

Independent Living

Gericare of Richmond is a small, six-bed assisted living home tucked into a residential neighborhood. It's not a big facility—think more like a family setting where your parent will get to know everyone, including the staff. They offer help with daily routines like bathing, dressing, and getting around, and they can adjust meals for special diets, which is a relief if your loved one has health needs like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Estimated Pricing

$4,000–$12,106 / mth

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San Francisco Towers

4.0

1661 Pine St, California 94109

Memory Care

Independent Living

San Francisco Towers is the kind of place where longtime San Franciscans and newcomers alike seem to find a sense of community. It's not flashy, but it does have a certain old-school charm—think polished interiors, a well-kept building, and a location that's genuinely walkable to the city's arts scene. Residents often mention the wide range of activities, from book groups to fitness classes and art workshops.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$10,017 / mth

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Eden Housing Community Heritage

4.0

1555 Fred Jackson Way, California 94801

Independent Living

Nursing Home

Eden Housing Community Heritage on Fred Jackson Way is more than just a place to live—it's a community designed for folks who want stability and support, especially seniors and families with lower incomes. Instead of a traditional assisted living or nursing home setup, what you’ll find here is affordable housing with a strong focus on helping residents stay independent and connected. Staff are on-site to help with things like healthcare access, transportation, and even managing utility bills.

Estimated Pricing

$4,319–$12,106 / mth

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Anton Pointe

4.0

1470 S Novato Blvd, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Anton Pointe stands out because it’s a small, 10-bed home where residents aren’t just another number. The staff here know each person’s routines and preferences, and families often mention how personal the care feels—one reviewer even said they wish they could give more stars because their husband was always well groomed and looked after. The team is there around the clock, helping with everything from bathing and dressing to medication reminders and memory support for those with dementia.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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Bel Marin Gardens

4.0

119 Montego Key, California 94949

Memory Care

Independent Living

Bel Marin Gardens stands out in Novato for its blend of attentive, hands-on care and a cozy, small-community feel. Instead of a sprawling facility, it’s a more intimate setting where staff know residents by name and keep a close eye on their well-being. The team provides 24-hour supervision and helps with everything from bathing and dressing to medication management.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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Novato Village Senior Apartments

4.0

801 State Access Rd, California 94949

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Novato Village Senior Apartments is a 55+ rental community, not a medical facility or traditional assisted living. Residents live independently in studio, one, or two-bedroom apartments, each with their own kitchen, washer and dryer, and accessible features like wide doorways and wheelchair access. The complex offers practical amenities—a gym, business center, and a clubhouse for social gatherings. Pets are allowed, with some restrictions.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$7,259 / mth

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Oakmont of Novato

4.0

1465 S Novato Blvd, California 94947

Memory Care

Independent Living

Oakmont of Novato stands out in town for how hands-on their approach is. Instead of a one-size-fits-all routine, they work with each resident—and their families—to figure out what kind of help actually makes daily life easier. That can mean help with bathing, getting dressed, managing medications, or even just making sure someone’s there to check in throughout the day.

Estimated Pricing

$3,149–$15,410 / mth

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Kokoro Assisted Living Inc

3.9

1881 Bush St, California 94109

Memory Care

Independent Living

Kokoro Assisted Living sits right in the heart of Japantown, and you can feel that influence as soon as you walk in. They’re known for blending Japanese and American traditions—think origami workshops, calligraphy, and even the food (though, honestly, reviews are mixed on the meals and they’ve been working to improve). The building itself is clean and feels more like a community than an institution.

Estimated Pricing

$5,088–$14,180 / mth

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