Best Senior Communities near me in San Diego, California

San Diego, CA, is located in southern California, near the Mexican border. The city is known for its excellent weather, stunning beaches, and a variety of attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. As part of San Diego County, which itself has nearly 3.3 million people, the city enjoys a delightful Mediterranean climate year-round. But San Diego is much more than just beaches and sunshine. Its long association with the US Navy has earned it the nickname "America's Finest City," and the historic USS Midway Museum, an aircraft carrier turned museum, is a must-see for any history buff. San Diego has also emerged as a hub for healthcare and biotechnology, attracting top talent and businesses from around the world. So, whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a taste of history, or a glimpse into the future of medicine, San Diego has something to offer everyone.

Costs of Senior Communities in San Diego, CA

The average cost of senior communities in San Diego, CA is about $5,983 per month. The costs can vary based on factors such as amenities, services, and location. Generally, the city offers a range of options from affordable to more upscale communities, providing seniors with choices that suit their preferences and budgets. It's advisable for individuals and families to explore the specific offerings of each community to determine the best fit for their needs.

Average Income in San Diego, CA

The average income in San Diego, is around $69,504 which is similar to the state average in California of about $69,504. However, San Diego offers a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in the country.

Ranking of San Diego among Top Cities in California

San Diego is ranked as one of the top cities in California. According to various sources, it has been ranked as the 22nd best place to live in the U.S. San Diego enjoys a strong reputation as a top California city, especially for its outdoor lifestyle, tourism appeal, and overall quality of life.

Top Senior Communities in San Diego, CA

Some of the top senior communities in San Diego, CA, include:

These facilities prioritize the well-being and comfort of their residents, offering various amenities, personalized care services, and engaging activities.

ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch

4.1

850 Duncan Ranch Rd, California 91914

Memory Care

ActivCare at Rolling Hills Ranch is focused almost entirely on memory care for seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The staff includes licensed nurses on site every day of the week, and caregivers are trained specifically for dementia support.

Estimated Pricing

$3,050–$14,286 / mth

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Congregational Tower

4.1

288 F St, California 91910

Independent Living

Congregational Tower is a community that offers both assisted and independent living options for seniors in Chula Vista, CA. They have a range of accommodations, including studio and one-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and safety features like emergency call systems. The community is well-equipped with amenities like a community kitchen, laundry room, arts and crafts room, and an outdoor patio with BBQ facilities.

Estimated Pricing

$3,050–$6,212 / mth

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Kiku Gardens

4.1

1260 3rd Ave, California 91911

Independent Living

Kiku Gardens is a spot that a lot of local families turn to when their parents need a little extra help but still want to keep some independence. The building itself isn’t fancy, but it’s clean and feels safe. Most people here have their own apartments—either studios or one-bedrooms—so it doesn’t feel institutional. Staff help with things like meals, laundry, and medication reminders, but they don’t hover.

Estimated Pricing

$3,050–$6,212 / mth

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Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill

4.1

2567 2nd Ave, California 92103

Assisted Living

If you’re looking at Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill for your parent, here’s what stood out to me after digging around. First, it’s not just another senior community—it’s got a real neighborhood vibe, right in the heart of Bankers Hill, with easy walks to shops, Balboa Park, and even harbor views from the rooftop deck[2][3]. The building itself mixes modern touches with cozy, traditional design, so it feels more like a home than an institution[2].

Estimated Pricing

$3,318–$8,365 / mth

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Nazareth House

4.1

6333 Rancho Mission Rd, California 92108

Assisted Living

Nazareth House in San Diego is run by the Sisters of Nazareth, a Catholic organization with a long history in elder care, but they welcome residents of all backgrounds. What stands out here is their focus on both independence and support. Residents can choose between assisted living and independent living, with care plans adjusted as needs change. Licensed nurses are available around the clock, which isn’t always the case at similar communities.

Estimated Pricing

$3,318–$5,298 / mth

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Plaza Village Senior Living

4.1

950 L Ave, California 91950

Memory Care

Independent Living

Plaza Village Senior Living is a community where residents can get more than just basic care—they can keep a sense of home and independence, even if they need extra support. The setup is different from most places: instead of long hallways and big dining rooms, residents live in smaller 'neighborhoods' with just a few bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a shared living space. This makes it feel more like a real home and less like an institution.

Estimated Pricing

$3,819–$11,716 / mth

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Ridgeview Health Center

4.1

9825 Glen Center Dr, California 92131

Nursing Home

Ridgeview Health Center is one of the newer senior care communities in San Diego, offering assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing all on one campus. What stands out is their focus on personalized care—residents get individual care plans, and families mention that staff actually take time to get to know each person. The nursing team includes licensed nurses and trained caregivers, and while the website highlights their compassion, reviews suggest the care is solid but not flashy.

Estimated Pricing

$7,753–$10,891 / mth

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Sunrise of La Jolla

4.1

810 Turquoise St, California 92109

Memory Care

Assisted Living

Sunrise of La Jolla feels more like a community than an institution. Residents get help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders, but there's also a strong focus on keeping people active and engaged. The staff includes personal care assistants who help with walking and mobility, and there are nurses on site for health needs. Families mention that the team is friendly and attentive, and the place itself is kept clean and welcoming.

Estimated Pricing

$3,318–$8,365 / mth

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The Montera

4.1

5740 Lake Murray Blvd, California 91942

Memory Care

Assisted Living

The Montera feels more like a lively neighborhood than a traditional senior facility. Residents talk about the koi pond and the outdoor patio lights—little touches that make the place feel welcoming and relaxed. The staff gets a lot of praise for being friendly and attentive, and several families mention that management is easy to reach and genuinely supportive.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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University Care Center

4.1

5602 University Ave, California 92105

Nursing Home

If you're looking for a place that feels less like an institution and more like a community, University Care Center stands out for its warm, family-like atmosphere. Staff and residents get to know each other—there’s a sense of teamwork, and people mention that the environment is genuinely friendly, not just polite. Several employees say they learned a lot here, especially new nurses, because the more experienced staff and management are approachable and supportive.

Estimated Pricing

$7,753–$10,891 / mth

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Westmont of La Mesa

4.1

9000 Murray Dr, California 91942

Assisted Living

Westmont of La Mesa is the kind of place that looks impressive when you walk in—lots of natural light, modern spaces, and a real sense of activity. What families usually notice first is how friendly and present the staff are. Residents get help with daily needs like bathing, medication reminders, and meals, but the approach is pretty individualized. There’s a full-time nurse on staff, and therapists come in as needed.

Estimated Pricing

$2,547–$14,078 / mth

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Atria La Jolla

4.0

4025 Pulitzer Pl, California 92122

Independent Living

Atria La Jolla feels more like an upscale condo community than a typical senior residence. The apartments come with full kitchens, private patios or balconies, and even Alexa smart home devices—so residents can adjust the thermostat or call the front desk with just their voice. The community is known for its lively social calendar, with everything from art classes to group outings and happy hours. There’s a heated pool and hot tub, plus a beauty salon on site.

Estimated Pricing

$4,494–$6,738 / mth

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Brookdale Clairemont

4.0

5219 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, California 92117

Assisted Living

Brookdale Clairemont is a mid-sized senior living community that focuses on both assisted and independent living. What stands out here is their approach to tailoring care: staff meet with each new resident and their family to learn about daily routines, preferences, and life history before putting together a personalized service plan. The building itself is two stories with about 100 apartments, and the grounds have a courtyard and tropical landscaping that give it a relaxed, SoCal feel.

Estimated Pricing

$3,318–$6,738 / mth

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Cloisters of the Valley Memory Care

4.0

4171 Camino del Rio S, California 92108

Memory Care

Cloisters of the Valley Memory Care feels more like a small, close-knit home than a big institution. Families mention that the staff—many of whom have been there for years—know residents by name and treat them like individuals, not just patients. There’s a real emphasis on dignity and making residents feel comfortable, especially for those with memory loss. The building itself is peaceful inside, with a secure garden that’s actually used, not just for show.

Estimated Pricing

$5,496–$8,365 / mth

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