Best Independent Living in Albuquerque, NM

Average Cost of Independent Living in Albuquerque

Although the pricing data on independent living specifically isn't well documented in Albuquerque, according to the Genworth Cost of Care survey, the average monthly cost of...

Average Cost of Independent Living in Albuquerque

Although the pricing data on independent living specifically isn't well documented in Albuquerque, according to the Genworth Cost of Care survey, the average monthly cost of assisted living for Albuquerque is $4,750. Independent living is usually about the same price but slightly less.

Top Independent Living Facilities in Albuquerque

The top memory care agencies in Albuquerque include:

Sandia Vista Senior Living
The Watermark at Cherry Hills
The Montebello on Academy

What to Expect in Independent Living (And How Does it Compare to Assisted Living)

Independent living communities are designed for seniors who are capable of living on their own but prefer the convenience of assistance with some tasks and the social aspect of community living.

Assisted living facilities on the other hand offer a higher level of service, assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management for those who cannot live independently.

Is Financial Assistance Available for Independent Living?

While Medicare generally does not cover long-term care, such as independent living, memory care, and assisted living, various options, such as long-term care insurance, veterans' benefits, or Medicaid, may help cover costs.

Holiday Bear Canyon Estates

4440 Morris St NE, New Mexico 87111

Independent Living

Holiday Bear Canyon Estates is a senior living community focused on independent living, not assisted living, so residents live in their own apartments and set their own routines. The building is in the Northeast Heights, right by the Sandia Mountains, so a lot of apartments have nice views and there’s plenty of outdoor space for walking or relaxing.

Estimated Pricing

$3,750–$6,063 / mth

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The Montebello on Academy

10500 Academy Rd NE, New Mexico 87111

Independent Living

Nursing Home

The Montebello on Academy is one of those places that feels less like an institution and more like a lively apartment complex for older adults. They offer both independent and assisted living, plus skilled nursing and rehab if someone’s needs change. The staff includes in-house nurses 24/7, and there’s an on-site therapy clinic (run by FOX Rehabilitation) for physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

Estimated Pricing

$3,750–$9,582 / mth

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The Rio Grande Gracious Retirement Living

4.0

2331 Westside Blvd SE, New Mexico 87124

Independent Living

The Rio Grande Gracious Retirement Living stands out for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the practical support it offers to seniors who want to keep their independence but appreciate a little backup. Residents get their own apartment—studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom—with emergency pull cords for safety. Meals are a highlight here: three chef-prepared meals daily, served in a communal dining room, so no one has to worry about cooking or eating alone unless they want to.

Estimated Pricing

$3,710–$5,428 / mth

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Westwind House Assisted Living

6600 Los Volcanes Rd NW, New Mexico 87121

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Westwind House feels more like a small neighborhood than a big, impersonal facility. When you walk in, you notice right away that it’s clean and the atmosphere is relaxed. The staff here are often described as patient and genuinely attentive, and they seem to go out of their way to make residents feel heard—if someone wants a bologna sandwich or has a special diet, the kitchen tries to make it happen.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$6,063 / mth

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Brookdale Valencia

300 Valencia Dr SE, New Mexico 87108

Independent Living

Assisted Living

Brookdale Valencia stands out for feeling less like a big corporation and more like a real community—especially if your parent wants both independence and support. The staff gets a lot of praise for being friendly, patient, and genuinely helpful, not just checking boxes. Several families mention how the director and team really listen and adapt care to each resident, which is rare in larger places.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$6,063 / mth

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Coronado Villa Retirement Resort

6900 San Vicente Ave NE, New Mexico 87109

Independent Living

Coronado Villa Retirement Resort stands out in Albuquerque for its cruise-ship-like atmosphere and vibrant social life. Residents often mention the open, airy design—imagine a bright central lobby with all the apartments looking inward, which makes for easy connections but isn't everyone's taste. The staff gets high marks for friendliness and responsiveness, and people rave about the sheer number of activities—there’s more to do than most folks have time for.

Estimated Pricing

$3,750–$6,063 / mth

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Palmilla Senior Living

10301 Golf Course Rd NW, New Mexico 87114

Memory Care

Independent Living

Palmilla Senior Living feels more like a lively neighborhood than a facility. Residents talk about how easy it is to get to know people—staff and neighbors greet you by name, and there’s a real sense of belonging. The community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so your parent can stay in familiar surroundings even if their needs change. People mention the staff often—folks like Marcy Reames get called out by name for being helpful and responsive.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$9,582 / mth

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Retreat Gardens

4.1

4100 Jackie Rd SE, New Mexico 87124

Memory Care

Independent Living

Retreat Gardens on Jackie Rd SE is known in Rio Rancho for its hands-on approach to senior care, especially for folks living with early dementia or memory loss. The staff here isn’t just present—they’re visible, always around, and trained to handle the ups and downs that come with cognitive changes. Families mention the place feels welcoming, not clinical, and that the caregivers really get to know residents as individuals.

Estimated Pricing

$3,129–$9,010 / mth

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Albuquerque Uptown Assisted Living

7611 Indian School Rd NE, New Mexico 87110

Memory Care

Independent Living

Albuquerque Uptown Assisted Living stands out for its genuinely home-like feel and the way staff and residents become like extended family. You’ll notice right away that the team here isn’t just clocking in—they take time to really get to know each person, from their favorite foods to their daily routines. Staff are described as attentive, warm, and willing to sit and chat, not just provide care. The owners are hands-on and have built a culture where both residents and employees feel valued.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$9,582 / mth

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BeeHive Assisted Living Homes of Rio Rancho NM #1 - Dementia Care & Memory Care

4.2

204 Silent Spring Rd NE, New Mexico 87124

Memory Care

Independent Living

BeeHive Assisted Living Homes of Rio Rancho #1 feels more like a regular house than a facility, which is a big deal for families who want something less institutional. With only 12 rooms, it's a much smaller setup than most places, and that gives it a quieter, more personal vibe. The staff-to-resident ratio is good, and people often mention Meghan, the administrator, by name—she's known for being open, helpful, and willing to answer every question, even the tough ones.

Estimated Pricing

$3,129–$9,010 / mth

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Casita Senior Living

3.7

5141 Georgia Pl NE, New Mexico 87144

Memory Care

Independent Living

Casita Senior Living on Georgia Place in Rio Rancho feels more like a home than a facility. The place is small and quiet, with private bedrooms and a big dining area that opens onto a covered patio—residents and families often mention enjoying cookouts or just relaxing outside. The care team is there around the clock, and they work closely with families to make sure each resident’s care plan fits their needs, whether it’s help with daily routines, medication, or more hands-on support.

Estimated Pricing

$3,129–$9,010 / mth

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Kushland

1331 Cuesta Abajo Ct NE, New Mexico 87113

Independent Living

Nursing Home

Kushland at 1331 Cuesta Abajo Ct NE stands out for its straightforward approach to senior care. They offer both assisted and independent living, plus some nursing support for residents who need more hands-on help. Families mention that Kushland is upfront about their pricing and availability, which makes the decision process a bit less stressful. The environment is described as welcoming, with staff who seem to genuinely care about the residents’ day-to-day needs.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$9,582 / mth

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Willow Wood Assisted Living

1008 Chiricahua Ct SE, New Mexico 87123

Memory Care

Independent Living

Willow Wood Assisted Living is a small, home-like community where residents get a lot of personal attention—there are only about eight people living there at a time, so it never feels overwhelming or impersonal. The staff-to-resident ratio is higher than what the state requires, which means folks get help quickly when they need it, whether it's with bathing, medication, or just having someone to talk to.

Estimated Pricing

$2,130–$6,279 / mth

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Retreat Villas

4.1

4060 Jackie Rd SE, New Mexico 87124

Memory Care

Independent Living

Retreat Villas in Rio Rancho isn’t one of those big, impersonal senior communities. It’s a smaller, locally owned place where the staff actually knows the residents by name—and not just their medical charts. Families mention that the team is especially strong when it comes to memory care, with staff who seem genuinely invested in helping residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia feel safe and understood.

Estimated Pricing

$3,129–$9,010 / mth

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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