Best Independent Living near me in Lakewood, New Jersey

Lakewood is a vibrant township located in Ocean County, New Jersey. Known for its rich history and rapidly growing community, it blends a suburban atmosphere with a diverse range of...

Lakewood is a vibrant township located in Ocean County, New Jersey. Known for its rich history and rapidly growing community, it blends a suburban atmosphere with a diverse range of services. With a significant population, Lakewood serves as a central hub for families, retirees, and businesses. Its proximity to the Jersey Shore, along with various parks and cultural spots, makes it a desirable place for independent living.

Costs of Independent Living in Lakewood, NJ

The average cost for independent living in Lakewood, NJ, can range between $2,500 and $4,500 per month, depending on the amenities, services, and location of the facility. Factors such as apartment size, location, and the level of care offered also influence the pricing.

Average Income in Lakewood, NJ

The average household income in Lakewood, NJ, is approximately $60,000 to $65,000 per year. This income level reflects the town’s diverse economy, which includes retail, healthcare, and service industries.

Ranking of Lakewood among Top Cities in New Jersey

Lakewood is considered one of the top cities in New Jersey for families and retirees, ranking high for its quality of life and access to healthcare and education. While it may not be the highest in terms of wealth or prestige compared to cities like Hoboken or Princeton, it holds a unique position as a growing community with a significant senior population.

Top Independent Living Providers/Facilities in Lakewood, NJ:

The Lakewood Courtyard
The Willows at Lakewood
The Arbors
Leisure Park
Bella Terra Assisted Living

Holiday City At Berkeley

3.8

631 Jamaica Blvd, New Jersey 08757

Independent Living

Holiday City At Berkeley is more like a small town than a typical senior living community. Instead of a single building, it's a sprawling 55+ neighborhood where folks live in their own homes but have access to a huge range of activities and amenities. Think clubhouses (there are several!), outdoor pools, a woodworking shop, and even a ceramics studio. People here stay busy with everything from yoga and Zumba to fishing and bowling clubs.

Estimated Pricing

$4,813–$7,394 / mth

Go to provider page

Cornerstone at Toms River 55+

3.7

2121 Massachusetts Ave, New Jersey 08755

Independent Living

Cornerstone at Toms River 55+ is a bit different from the usual senior living options you’ll find in Ocean County. It’s not an assisted living facility or a sprawling campus with medical care on site—instead, it’s an affordable, independent living apartment community for folks 55 and older who want their own space but also want to stay social and active. The management is on-site 24/7, which is a comfort for families who worry about maintenance issues or building security.

Estimated Pricing

$4,813–$7,394 / mth

Go to provider page

The Willows at Toms River

3.7

1000 Axl Dr, New Jersey 08755

Independent Living

The Willows at Toms River isn’t your typical senior care provider—it’s actually an affordable apartment community designed for families, including seniors who want more independence but still value some support. What stands out is that every apartment comes with its own washer and dryer, spacious closets, and a kitchen with quartz countertops and modern appliances.

Estimated Pricing

$4,813–$7,394 / mth

Go to provider page

Mattison Crossing

3.6

93 Manalapan Ave, New Jersey 07728

Memory Care

Independent Living

Mattison Crossing is one of those places that feels less like an institution and more like a busy, lived-in community. They offer independent living, assisted living, and a memory care program called Reflections, which is designed for folks with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Estimated Pricing

$3,651–$12,000 / mth

Go to provider page

Surrey Downs Clubhouse

3.6

1 Queen Anne Blvd, New Jersey 07728

Independent Living

Surrey Downs Clubhouse is the heart of a lively 55+ community in Freehold, where neighbors seem to genuinely know each other. It’s not a traditional assisted living facility—what you’ll find here is more of an independent, active adult neighborhood with a clubhouse that acts as a social and recreational hub.

Estimated Pricing

$3,651–$6,977 / mth

Go to provider page

Sunnyside Manor

3.6

2500 Ridgewood Rd, New Jersey 07719

Memory Care

Independent Living

Sunnyside Manor stands out in Wall for being family owned and operated, which isn’t something you see every day in this area. The Keane family runs the place and is known for being hands-on—families mention them by name in reviews, saying they go above and beyond to make residents and visitors feel welcome. The staff gets a lot of praise for being genuinely caring and attentive, and several families say it feels more like a home than an institution.

Estimated Pricing

$2,926–$15,839 / mth

Go to provider page

Crossroads

3.3

720 US-9, New Jersey 07728

Independent Living

Crossroads at Howell is a senior apartment community that’s pretty practical if your parent is looking for affordable, independent living in Freehold. This isn’t an assisted living facility with medical care on site, but rather an apartment building for folks 62 and up who qualify for HUD housing. Rent is based on income—about 30% of what your loved one brings in each month—which can be a real relief for families watching their budget.

Estimated Pricing

$3,651–$6,977 / mth

Go to provider page

Renaissance At Manalapan

3.3

24 Derry Meeting Dr, New Jersey 07726

Independent Living

Renaissance At Manalapan is a gated 55+ community focused on independent living for active adults. Residents here live in single-family homes—most have two or three bedrooms, two or three bathrooms, and attached garages. Some homes offer extras like basements or lofts. The community is on the smaller side, with about 127 homes, which makes it easier for neighbors to get to know each other.

Estimated Pricing

$4,046–$12,228 / mth

Go to provider page

Harrogate Retirement Community

3.0

400 Locust St, New Jersey 08701

Independent Living

Harrogate Retirement Community at 400 Locust Street has a reputation in Lakewood for being more than just a place to live—it’s a lively hub for older adults who want options. Residents can choose between independent living apartments, assisted living suites, and more advanced care, all under one roof. The staff includes licensed nurses and caregivers available around the clock, and the community is managed by Life Care Services, a national operator known for training its teams well.

Estimated Pricing

$2,950–$11,597 / mth

Go to provider page

Crestwood Village 6

2.9

6 Congasia Rd, New Jersey 08759

Independent Living

Crestwood Village 6 stands out in Manchester for its genuine sense of community and the sheer variety of ways residents can stay active and engaged. Unlike many senior living options that focus strictly on care, this place feels more like a neighborhood where folks look out for each other. Residents talk about the abundance of clubs—everything from quilting to bocce—and the freedom to join in or keep to themselves.

Estimated Pricing

$3,672–$7,106 / mth

Go to provider page

Crestwood Village Co-Op IV

2.9

15E Moccasin Dr, New Jersey 08759

Independent Living

Crestwood Village Co-Op IV is a 55+ community that feels more like a real neighborhood than a facility. Residents live in single-story homes—think two bedrooms, two baths, a garage, and a kitchen where you can still cook your own meals if you want. It's not flashy, but it's clean and surprisingly affordable for the area. People mention the place is quiet, with lots of trees and space between homes, so it doesn't feel cramped.

Estimated Pricing

$3,672–$7,106 / mth

Go to provider page

Monarch Bella Terra

2.9

2 Kathleen Dr, New Jersey 08527

Memory Care

Independent Living

Monarch Bella Terra feels more like a lively neighborhood than a facility. Residents talk about the friendly, attentive aides and how easy it is to settle in, especially with ongoing renovations giving the place a fresh look. The apartments are roomy and well-kept, and people often mention how comfortable they feel having their own space. Activities are a big part of daily life here—there’s always something going on, from Friday night entertainment to painting classes and even knitting groups.

Estimated Pricing

$2,615–$11,874 / mth

Go to provider page

The Lakewood Residence

2.9

68 Madison Ave, New Jersey 08701

Independent Living

If you ask around Lakewood about The Lakewood Residence at 68 Madison Ave, you’ll hear it described as a bit of a hidden gem for independent seniors. This place isn’t a sprawling campus—think more intimate, almost boutique, with a real focus on comfort and community. The building is new and feels more like upscale condos than an old-fashioned facility. Residents can choose from beautifully decorated apartments, each with its own kitchenette, so folks who still like to cook a little can do that.

Estimated Pricing

$3,423–$11,597 / mth

Go to provider page

Whiting Station Retirement

2.9

323 Gardenia Dr, New Jersey 08759

Independent Living

Whiting Station Retirement isn’t your typical senior care facility—it’s more like a close-knit neighborhood for folks 55 and up who want to stay independent but still have a sense of security and support. The community is made up of single-family homes, not apartments or rooms, so residents really get to feel like they’re in their own place.

Estimated Pricing

$3,672–$7,106 / mth

Go to provider page

Talk to an advisor

Need help caring for an elder loved one? We've got you covered.

Free consultation with a Senior Advisor
Compare pricing for senior services
Comprehensive planning for you loved one

or call us directly at 1-800-22-OLERA

Important things to know about Independent Living

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

Learn more