56 independent living communities in Santa Cruz, CA have costs between $2,222 to $12,195, have input from 2,596 reviews, and 91% have photos. Seniors in an independent living community would appreciate Santa Cruz, California for its vibrant atmosphere and plethora of resources tailored to their needs. The city boasts the Santa Cruz Senior Center, which offers various programs focused on health, wellness, and social engagement, helping seniors stay active and connected. Nearby, the scenic Natural Bridges State Beach provides a serene environment for leisurely walks, while the local Farmers' Market offers fresh produce, encouraging healthy eating habits among older adults. Additionally, the accessibility of public transportation makes it easy for seniors to explore local attractions like the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and various cultural events throughout the year.
#1 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,600 to $4,050 per month
Dominican Oaks in Santa Cruz offers inviting independent living apartments with beautiful decor, high-quality diverse dining options, engaging activities, and a supportive community atmosphere, all contributing to an enjoyable and fulfilling lifestyle for residents.
Friendly Staff
Sunshine Villa, A Merrill Gardens Community
4.3 from 30 reviews
#2 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Sunshine Villa is a highly regarded independent living community featuring beautiful Victorian architecture, spacious accommodations with essential amenities, quality dining experiences, engaging daily activities, and attentive staff dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for seniors.
La Posada
3.1 from 8 reviews
#3 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,550 per month
La Posada, located in Santa Cruz, CA, offers convenient access to amenities like cafes, parks, and restaurants but may lack a broader range of healthcare facilities beyond the available pharmacies and hospitals.
Garfield Park Village
3.8 from 4 reviews
#4 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Garfield Park Village, located in Santa Cruz, California, offers easy access to numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, and hospitals; however, potential downsides may include the limited options for specialized healthcare and potential noise from the vibrant surrounding city life.
Arbor Cove Senior Commons
3.5 from 4 reviews
#5 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Arbor Cove Senior Commons offers a vibrant community in Santa Cruz, CA, but may feel isolated for those seeking more diverse recreational activities beyond cafes and parks, as well as limited options for exclusive dining and shopping experiences.
Great Staff
Brookdale Scotts Valley
4.2 from 113 reviews
#6 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,755 to $6,165 per month
Brookdale Scotts Valley offers a secure and vibrant community with varied experiences, including praised meals and appealing facilities, but potential residents should be mindful of financial concerns and variable service quality based on reviews.
Terraces of Los Gatos
4.5 from 89 reviews
#7 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,578 to $5,382 per month
The Terraces of Los Gatos is a highly praised independent living community known for its friendly staff, modern amenities, engaging social activities, and welcoming atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community among residents.
Tailored Transitions
5.0 from 22 reviews
#8 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Tailored Transitions in San Jose, CA offers residents proximity to numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, a place of worship, and a hospital for convenient access to essential amenities and services.
Friendly Staff
The Watermark At Almaden
4.9 from 104 reviews
#9 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
This new independent living facility offers a clean and modern design, friendly staff, engaging daily activities, delicious meals, and abundant amenities like a gym, pool, and spacious rooms, creating a vibrant community atmosphere for residents.
Independence Square
3.9 from 13 reviews
#10 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Independence Square in Watsonville, CA offers a vibrant environment for seniors with convenient access to pharmacies, physicians, and restaurants, but may lack certain independence due to the availability of around-the-clock caregiver support.
Paloma Del Mar Senior Apt
3.5 from 10 reviews
#11 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Paloma Del Mar Senior Apt, located in Freedom, CA, offers a convenient lifestyle for seniors with close access to medical care and dining options, though it lacks specific details on social engagement activities and amenities.
Friendly Staff
Merrill Gardens At Campbell
4.6 from 84 reviews
#12 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$5,395 to $9,295 per month
Merrill Gardens at Campbell offers a stylish and well-maintained environment with friendly staff and convenient access to local amenities, but improvements are needed in organized activities and maintenance responsiveness for a fulfilling independent living experience.
Affordable
Valley Heights
3.9 from 9 reviews
#13 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$2,650 to $3,450 per month
Valley Heights is an affordable independent living community that offers well-equipped studios with kitchens, elegant dining options, and covered parking, making it an appealing choice for seniors seeking comfort and convenience.
Friendly Staff
Brookdale San Jose
4.4 from 135 reviews
#14 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$4,625 to $11,140 per month
Brookdale San Jose is praised for its homey atmosphere, engaged residents, diverse activities, and dedicated staff, making it a strong option for families seeking an independent living community for seniors.
Friendly Staff
Atria Willow Glen
4.5 from 150 reviews
#15 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,595 to $6,295 per month
Atria Willow Glen offers a vibrant independent living community with engaging activities, attentive staff, beautiful surroundings, and opportunities for social connections that ensure residents thrive and feel at home.
Cleanliness
Villa Fontana
4.3 from 39 reviews
#16 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$5,690 to $7,490 per month
Villa Fontana Retirement Community is a family-owned facility known for its friendly staff, engaging activities, and clean environment, though potential residents should consider the availability of room types and financial implications before making a decision.
Village Green Apartments
3.5 from 11 reviews
#17 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Village Green Apartments in San Jose, CA, offers a vibrant community with nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, places of worship, and theaters, but it may lack sufficient privacy and quietness due to its bustling neighborhood.
Great Food
The Forum At Rancho San Antonio
4.9 from 142 reviews
#18 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$2,222 per month
The Forum at Rancho San Antonio offers a beautiful, spacious environment with friendly, dedicated staff, vibrant social activities, quality meal services, and a strong sense of community that enhances residents' quality of life.
Community
Oakmont Of San Jose
4.3 from 95 reviews
#19 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$5,195 to $11,000 per month
Oakmont of San Jose is praised for its exceptional dining services, compassionate staff, and positive community atmosphere, but potential residents should be mindful of staffing consistency and pricing transparency.
Hilltop Manor
4.6 from 24 reviews
#20 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Hilltop Manor is an independent living community in San Jose, CA, offering residents convenient access to dining, parks, healthcare services, and transportation but may have limited options for those seeking a more secluded or tranquil environment.
Clean
Harvy's Home Care
4.3 from 16 reviews
#21 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,500 to $5,500 per month
Harvy's Home Care is a highly recommended independent living community known for its cleanliness, friendly staff, personalized attention, and pleasant atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for families seeking quality care for their loved ones.
Friendly Staff
Lincoln Glen Assisted Living Center
4.3 from 22 reviews
#22 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$4,175 to $4,655 per month
Lincoln Glen Manor offers a lively atmosphere, friendly staff, spacious rooms, engaging activities, and well-maintained grounds, although some visitors noted its outdated appearance and restrictive garden access.
Santa Teresa Apartments
4.0 from 55 reviews
#23 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Santa Teresa Apartments in San Jose offers seniors a vibrant community with convenient access to cafes, parks, healthcare services, dining options, and spiritual centers but may lack a sense of isolation due to its proximity to urban amenities.
Santana Terrace
4.9 from 63 reviews
#24 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$2,839 to $3,725 per month
Santana Terrace offers well-appointed apartments with amenities like air-conditioning, a full kitchen, and social spaces, but it may fall short for those seeking more independence due to the personalized care and assistance provided by staff.
Cleanliness
Carlton Senior Living San Jose
4.2 from 70 reviews
#25 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,395 to $5,895 per month
Carlton Senior Living offers a welcoming atmosphere, engaging activities, and well-maintained facilities in San Jose, but potential residents should consider the high costs associated with some services and smaller room sizes at Carlton Plaza.
Community
Priya Living Santa Clara
4.9 from 34 reviews
#26 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Priya Living is a highly praised independent senior community offering beautiful, fully furnished apartments, a warm atmosphere, engaging activities, and friendly staff dedicated to creating a supportive environment for residents.
Cleanliness
Campbell Village
4.0 from 36 reviews
#27 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,300 to $5,000 per month
Campbell Village is a clean and affordable independent living community with various amenities and activities, but experiences vary widely due to concerns about care quality and outdated decor.
Clean
Westmont Of Morgan Hill
4.4 from 160 reviews
#28 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,995 to $6,495 per month
Westmont of Morgan Hill is highly regarded for its compassionate staff, welcoming environment, engaging activities, and quality dining experience, making it an appealing choice for those seeking an Independent Living senior community.
Arbor Apartnments
2.5 from 6 reviews
#29 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Arbor Apartments in San Jose, CA, while offering a wealth of nearby amenities, may result in potential noise and activity levels that could detract from a peaceful living experience for residents.
Family Involvement
Sunny View Retirement Community
4.3 from 37 reviews
#30 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Sunny View Retirement Community offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere with spacious independent living villas, diverse amenities, and a dedicated staff that fosters an engaging and supportive environment for residents.
Great Staff
Villa Serena Retirement LLC
4.6 from 58 reviews
#31 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,000 to $5,200 per month
Villa Serena is an independently run community praised for its attentive and friendly staff, cleanliness, and engaging activities, though opinions vary on its older charm, unit sizes, and meal options.
Friendly Staff
Villa Serena
4.6 from 60 reviews
#32 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Villa Serena Retirement is a welcoming, affordable independent living community praised for its beautiful grounds, spacious accommodations, diverse dining options, and dedicated staff that fosters a strong sense of community among residents.
Chateau Cupertino Retirement Residence
4.0 from 87 reviews
#33 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Chateau Cupertino offers a friendly community atmosphere with quality dining and well-maintained facilities, although room sizes may be small and engagement activities could be enhanced.
Friendly Staff
Atria Sunnyvale
4.5 from 112 reviews
#34 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,895 to $12,195 per month
Atria Sunnyvale is highly praised for its welcoming atmosphere, attentive staff, engaging activities that foster community among residents, and quality dining experiences, making it an ideal choice for families seeking an Independent Living senior community.
Friendly Staff
Merrill Gardens At Willow Glen
4.1 from 80 reviews
#35 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$4,500 to $7,400 per month
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen is a clean, welcoming independent living community where friendly staff foster personal connections with residents, though experiences with food quality and communication may vary.
Craig Gardens Senior Housing
3.4 from 5 reviews
#36 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Craig Gardens Senior Housing in Campbell, CA, offers a vibrant community with numerous nearby amenities for socialization and convenience, though potential residents might find limited cultural options and fewer outdoor activities.
Great Staff
Merrill Gardens At Gilroy
4.3 from 106 reviews
#37 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,250 to $5,600 per month
Merrill Gardens at Gilroy offers a vibrant, well-maintained environment with friendly staff and various activities for residents, but concerns about inconsistent care and staffing levels warrant careful consideration from prospective residents or their families.
Friendly Staff
Atria Evergreen Valley
4.5 from 129 reviews
#38 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,195 to $7,995 per month
Atria Evergreen Valley Senior Living is praised for its beautiful environment, attentive and friendly staff, strong community atmosphere, clean facilities, and generally favorable dining experiences, making it an appealing choice for independent living for seniors.
Villa Verde Apartments
3.0 from 22 reviews
#39 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Villa Verde Apartments in San Jose, CA, while offering numerous nearby amenities and services, may lack some independence for residents due to the proximity of healthcare facilities and transportation options.
Valley Village
4.2 from 39 reviews
#40 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Valley Village is an affordable senior living facility that offers a charming atmosphere, quality meals, and engaging activities to foster socialization among residents while addressing their comfort needs.
Moreland Apartments
3.8 from 5 reviews
#41 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Moreland Apartments in San Jose, CA offers a vibrant community with convenient access to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation, places of worship, and hospitals for an independent lifestyle.
Villa San Pedro Apartments
3.7 from 20 reviews
#42 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Villa San Pedro Apartments lacks extensive dining options and may have limited spiritual facilities, with only one place of worship nearby.
Princess Care Homes
1.0 from 1 review
#43 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Princess Care Homes in San Jose, CA, while offering a comfortable garden setting and various amenities, may lack the independence that some seniors desire due to required assistance with daily activities and structured scheduled events.
Friendly Staff
Holiday Warburton Place
4.0 from 101 reviews
#44 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,219 to $3,659 per month
Holiday Warburton Place offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff, comfortable studio apartments, nutritious dining options, and engaging activities, though it faces some challenges with management practices and facility updates.
Miramar Plaza Apartments
3.5 from 59 reviews
#45 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Miramar Plaza Apartments, located in Sunnyvale, CA, offers ample amenities and services but may feel overwhelming for residents due to its proximity to many cafes, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.
Homestead Park Apartments
3.8 from 25 reviews
#46 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Homestead Park Apartments in Sunnyvale, CA, while offering numerous amenities and convenience, lacks extensive entertainment options and may have limited transportation alternatives for residents.
San Jose Apartments
3.9 from 10 reviews
#47 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
San Jose Apartments, while offering a range of nearby amenities and services, may have limited public transportation options and only one available place of worship for residents seeking spiritual support.
Palm Court Senior Homes
2.0 from 4 reviews
#48 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Palm Court Senior Homes, located in a bustling San Jose neighborhood, offers easy access to 14 cafes, 10 parks, 28 pharmacies, and various dining options but may lack solitude due to its vibrant surroundings.
Shires Apartments
5.0 from 1 review
#49 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Shires Apartments in San Jose offers a vibrant community with numerous nearby amenities, but potential residents should be aware that it may not provide sufficient isolation from busy urban traffic and noise.
Blossom Hill Apartments
3.0 from 11 reviews
#50 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Blossom Hill Apartments in San Jose, CA, while offering proximity to various amenities and services, may lack immediate access to a diverse selection of places of worship or specialized healthcare resources nearby.
Civic Plaza Apartments
2.2 from 17 reviews
#51 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
$3,000 to $3,500 per month
Civic Plaza Apartments in Santa Clara, CA, offers a vibrant community with numerous nearby amenities, but the proximity to hospitals and pharmacies may indicate potential health concerns for residents.
Plum Tree West Apartments
2.0 from 7 reviews
#52 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Plum Tree West Apartments in Gilroy, CA, offers a vibrant lifestyle with convenient access to numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, a theater, and hospitals; however, it may lack certain upscale amenities or extensive recreational facilities.
Liberty Tower
5.0 from 2 reviews
#53 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Liberty Tower in Santa Clara, CA, while offering numerous amenities and conveniences nearby, may lack a more extensive selection of cultural or recreational activities compared to larger communities.
Crescent Terrace Apartments
3.7 from 3 reviews
#54 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Crescent Terrace Apartments in Sunnyvale, CA, while offering numerous nearby amenities, may lack a robust sense of community engagement and social activities for independent seniors.
Villa Garcia Apartments
#55 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
Villa Garcia Apartments in San Jose, CA, offers seniors convenient access to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation services, a theater, and a hospital; however, potential downsides include limited nearby entertainment options beyond the theater.
VIA Pacifica Gardens
#56 Best reviewed of independent living in Santa Cruz
VIA Pacifica Gardens is a serene senior community in Aptos, CA, with limited dining and healthcare options, as well as a lack of diverse recreational activities nearby.
Best Pet Friendly Independent Living in Santa Cruz, CA
Dogs & Cats
Brookdale Scotts Valley
4.2 from 113 reviews
$3,755 to $6,165 per month
Brookdale Scotts Valley offers a secure and vibrant community with varied experiences, including praised meals and appealing facilities, but potential residents should be mindful of financial concerns and variable service quality based on reviews.
Dogs & Cats
Merrill Gardens At Campbell
4.6 from 84 reviews
$5,395 to $9,295 per month
Merrill Gardens at Campbell offers a stylish and well-maintained environment with friendly staff and convenient access to local amenities, but improvements are needed in organized activities and maintenance responsiveness for a fulfilling independent living experience.
Dogs & Cats
Brookdale San Jose
4.4 from 135 reviews
$4,625 to $11,140 per month
Brookdale San Jose is praised for its homey atmosphere, engaged residents, diverse activities, and dedicated staff, making it a strong option for families seeking an independent living community for seniors.
Dogs & Cats
Atria Willow Glen
4.5 from 150 reviews
$3,595 to $6,295 per month
Atria Willow Glen offers a vibrant independent living community with engaging activities, attentive staff, beautiful surroundings, and opportunities for social connections that ensure residents thrive and feel at home.
Dogs & Cats
The Forum At Rancho San Antonio
4.9 from 142 reviews
$2,222 per month
The Forum at Rancho San Antonio offers a beautiful, spacious environment with friendly, dedicated staff, vibrant social activities, quality meal services, and a strong sense of community that enhances residents' quality of life.
Resources for seniors in Santa Cruz, CA
The Alzheimer’s Association Northern California and Northern Nevada, located in Santa Cruz, CA, is dedicated to providing essential support for seniors and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. They offer a 24/7 helpline at (831) 647-9890, ensuring that individuals can access reassurance and guidance at any time following a diagnosis. In addition to this invaluable resource, the chapter organizes both virtual and in-person support groups, fostering community connections and shared experiences. To further assist those impacted by dementia, they maintain a lending library equipped with a diverse range of materials covering various dementia-related topics. This comprehensive approach underscores their commitment to supporting families through every step of the journey.
The Seniors Council of Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties, located in Santa Cruz, CA, serves as the Area Agency on Aging for the region. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to assisting seniors and their families by providing expert referrals to local financial and legal advisors, as well as resources such as medical equipment loan programs and prescription drug assistance. In addition, the Seniors Council facilitates connections to support groups and dementia services, ensuring that older adults receive the comprehensive care and support they need. For assistance or more information, individuals can reach out to them at (831) 688-0400.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of Santa Cruz & San Benito Counties, located in Santa Cruz, CA, plays a vital role in supporting residents of dementia care facilities across the region. By conducting regular visits, the program ensures that these facilities comply with state and federal guidelines while also assisting them in addressing any unmet care needs. Beyond oversight, the ombudsman serves as an advocate for seniors, offering guidance and support during family disputes related to long-term care or facing issues such as involuntary discharges. For assistance or more information, individuals can reach out at (831) 429-1913.
Senior Legal Services, located in Santa Cruz, CA, offers invaluable support to older adults and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease. They provide free legal advocacy and information, assisting clients with a range of important issues including applications for public benefits, strategies for utilizing assets to fund dementia care, and guidance on assigning guardianship and powers of attorney. Additionally, their knowledgeable staff can help individuals navigate and understand memory care contracts, ensuring that families are well-informed during challenging times. For more information or assistance, Senior Legal Services can be reached at (831) 426-8824.
The Santa Cruz County Veterans Services Office, located in Santa Cruz, CA, offers vital support for veterans and their families through a team of knowledgeable advisors and specialists. They assist individuals in screening for eligibility for various benefits, including Aid and Attendance, disability compensation, and veterans’ and survivors’ pensions—financial resources that can be utilized for memory care services. Additionally, the office can assess qualifications for veterans’ home placement, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the assistance and care they need. For more information, you can reach them at (831) 454-7276.
The Downtown Senior Center, located in Santa Cruz, CA, is a vital resource for seniors seeking assistance and support. With a team of knowledgeable information specialists and dedicated volunteers, the center offers valuable recommendations and referrals to dementia resources in the community, including access to support groups and informational workshops. In addition to these services, the center provides essential health services like blood pressure screenings and free income tax filing assistance, making it a comprehensive hub for senior care and community engagement. For more information or to inquire about services, you can reach the center at (831) 420-6180.
Considerations for seniors living in Santa Cruz, CA
Moderate Climate: Santa Cruz has an ideal temperate climate that is cool but not outright cold during winter months, and warm but not too hot during the summer months.
Access to High-Quality Healthcare: Santa Cruz has one of the best medical centers in California. Seniors can access some of the best healthcare services in the country here.
Plenty of Recreational Activities: There are many outdoor recreational activities available for seniors in Santa Cruz, including hiking, fishing, swimming at numerous beaches and parks.
World-Class Entertainment and Cultural Venues: Santa Cruz hosts many events throughout the year from cultural festivals to concerts; seniors will never be short of entertainment options.
Retirement Communities: There are many retirement communities and homes for seniors all around Santa Cruz. These communities offer various amenities like heated pools, fitness centers, libraries, game rooms, and craft studios,
Active Social Scene: Seniors can easily engage in meeting new people or making friends since Santa Cruz has an active social scene with various groups that have common interests that they can join.
Great Food Scene: Santa Cruz offers a wide range of cuisine from around the world, which gives seniors an opportunity to explore different tastes without leaving town.
Accessible Transportation System: Public transportation is available throughout Santa Cruz county; this makes it easy for seniors who don't drive or prefer taking public transport to access different parts of town easily.
Beautiful Scenery: Being close to nature's beauty with scenic views of mountain ranges and seaside offers a perfect retreat for seniors who love nature's calming environment.
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