About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2026 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Independent Living Facilities in Sacramento, CA

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The average starting cost of independent living in Sacramento, California, is $3,884 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. Based on our ranking methodology, the top-rated independent living communities in Sacramento are Ivy Park at Sacramento, Carefree North Natomas and Sierra Loma Assisted Living.

Independent living in Sacramento offers a maintenance-free way to enjoy California’s capital city, with apartment-style homes, dining options, social activities, transportation, and convenient amenities. The city’s hyperlocal dining scene, riverside trails, parks, museums, and mild weather give you many ways to stay active. This guide covers local costs, reviews, amenities, payment options, resources, and the senior-friendly lifestyle Sacramento can offer older adults.

Sacramento Independent Living Facilities | 4918 Reviews

Showing 229 communities
Last Updated: 9/30/26
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Photo of Arbor Place
77 Photos available
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I've been really happy with them. They've done a great job. They're really friendly. And they worked with me during a really hard time. They went out of their way to help me and my family with my...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Welcome to Arbor Place. Enjoy home-cooked meals. Relax outside your patio. Enjoy group activities and outings, all with the reassurance of having a compassionate staffon hand 24 hours a day.As an assisted living center for the senior community, Arbor Place is committed to providing the highest...
Photo of The Villa
1111 Photos available
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The people who work there have been there for a very long time, they are very consistent with their care and their communication. It feels like a home, it does not feel institutional at all. The community is...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Acadia Elder Care, The Villa is a brand new custom home built in 2012 with a capacity of 14 residents, and the ability to accommodate 8 hospice residents. We offer 10 foot ceilings, crown molding throughout and an open floor plan to engage residents as many times through the day as possible. ...
Photo of Brookdale Lodi
2929 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
6.8
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32 reviews
6.8
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32 reviews
5 star
41%
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Overall Brookdale is a wonderful facility. The staff are all very friendly and genuinely care about the residents. My mother needed complete care for all of her needs. They did a good job and I think this is...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Fewer Worries, More LifeWhen it comes to our assisted living residents in Lodi, California, life has never been better. Each resident of our community experiences a full and rich life. Without the hassle and stress of household chores, you are free to do more of the things you love. Whether you...
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Photo of Balance Assisted Living and Memory Care
2020 Photos available
5 star
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I recently went to visit my grandmother at balance and noticed how wonderful all the staff is and how great they decorated for Christmas! I would definitely recommend others to check out violence assisted...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Balance Assisted Living & Memory Care is the ideal residence for seniors in Lodi, CA to call their home for personalized and customized care.Balance Assisted Living & Memory Care is open for business while adding a secured Memory Care unit and other enhancements throughout the entire...
Photo of Paradise Valley Estates
1313 Photos available
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I currently live in an independent living apartment. I am very pleased with the condition of my apartment, the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the food. There is a lot to do here. I feel secure...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Paradise Valley Estates is a 76-acre, nonprofit Life Plan Community that welcomes people age 60 and older from all walks of life. Our neighborhood, founded by military officers in 1997 and now open to others as well, is a place to enjoy your next chapter with the greatest peace of mind.The master...
Photo of Gold Country Senior Living
99 Photos available
6.5
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20 reviews
6.5
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20 reviews
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Positive: The campus itself is well maintained and feels relaxing and safe. The staff are very friendly and helpful. They're trying out a pilot program (6 apts only) for $1695 + $150 utility fee. You get no...
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Gold Country Senior Living offers Independent Living accommodations designed for seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle. The community provides a welcoming environment with comfortable, pet-friendly apartments and a range of amenities to support an active and engaging lifestyle. Residents...
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Photo of Crystal Creek Senior Living
1111 Photos available
5 star
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Have you noticed the changes Wagner Heighs made? new paint, furniture and new employees. The place looks amazing, smells amazing and feels amazing. I love calling it home! I recently moved in and I am so...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Wagner Heights Residential Wagner Heights Residential is an assisted living community located about an hour outside of San Francisco, in the city of Stockton, California. Located in the dead center of a heavily populated residential section of the city, Wagner Heights Residential is surrounded by...
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Photo of O'Connor Woods
1111 Photos available
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Beautiful facility with excellent staff and buildings. Extremely clean & everyone is very friendly. Just knowing that you can contact someone who has seen and talked to your family member recently gives...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Living at O'Connor Woods Retirement Community is an engaging, enriching experience! Although our campus is beautiful...filled with century old oak trees, gardens and walking paths...living here is about a lifestyle that most say they wish they had embarked on much earlier. Residents enjoy...
Photo of Pacific Heights Villas
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My loved one really likes this apartment complex! The grounds are very well maintained and it feels very safe. The gates around the complex are safe and there are security cameras everywhere. Management is...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Pacific Heights Villas provides a comfortable and serene living complex for seniors. Enjoy Lush greenery, crystal clear pool and a community garden within the complex. We are conveniently located near Weberstown Mall, Grocery Stores, Walgreens Pharmacy, and other shopping centers including a...
Photo of Cherry Blossom Assisted Living
66 Photos available
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Great place - They take wonderful care of my mom. We love everyone there - and appreciate their care and attention - so many activities to keep everyone busy!!
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Cherry Blossom Assisted Living is the sister facility of 5-Star rated Livermore Valley Senior Living in Livermore, CA. We trace our success as a company to the simple and enduring philosophy that aging is a gift. It is a gift of immense wisdom and character that is priceless to that individual,...
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Photo of Joy Senior Center
1616 Photos available
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What a blessing, I am so happy to consider The Joy Family Center as extended family, the staff consistently demonstrates outstanding care, patience , kindnesses and professionalism to all of the residents....
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of The Country Inn Retirement Home
11 Photo available
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My uncle has made the move into this community and everything has been going great for him. The staff have been attentive to his needs and I am comfortable with the care he has been receiving. He has had no...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Located on a 10-acre orchard and farm, The Country Inn Retirement Home is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly in the Napa Valley. Opening their doors in 1983, Country Inn has been in business for 33 years. Due to ever changing needs of the elderly, the staff at Country Inn creates unique...
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Photo of Golden Memories
88 Photos available
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Golden Memories Assisted Living is a licensed, Assisted-Living community offering a warm home environment for seniors looking for companionship, added security, activities, assistance with dressing and bathing, medication reminders, housekeeping, laundry, transportation and other personal care...
Photo of Acacia Glen Senior Apartments
8.5
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This is not a assistant living facility, but it is 55 and older. The only thing bad about this place is that they raise the rent every year of 7% which causes some people to have to move. They keep it up. I...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Acacia Glen is a recently built forty-one unit apartment complex for active, independent seniors.  Acacia Glen is designed for discerning senior citizens who desire high quality living with enhanced interior design features. For medical and dental care you couldn't ask for a more convenient...
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8.0
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The place is beautiful and the service is excellent. My mom loves the food! She participates in some activities and has made a lot of friends.
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
See details
Photo of Sunshine Manor
8.0
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9 reviews
8.0
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9 reviews
5 star
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Staff works very well with family. Have no rules with family on visits or bringing in patients favorite food to share meals with family. If allowed ,may also check patient out for short visits. There are...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Sunshine Manor is a charming assisted living residence located in the heart of El Dorado County.  Our 14-bed country home  has recently undergone numerous upgrades and improvements.  We graciously provide services for both ambulatory and non-ambulatory residents in either...
Photo of Jackson Hills Assisted Living
8.0
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The staff were very kind. My father-in-law can be grumpy and they all treated him with kindness. The general atmosphere was inviting, clean and upbeat. Overall we had a great experience there even though it...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details
Photo of Chateau On Capitol Avenue
5 star
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It is being sold, so they are going to have a different owner and things might change. I think the meals were superior though. I looked around the place and my brother seems very happy there, he thinks it is...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Elegant independent and assisted living is offered in exciting, culturally rich midtown Sacramento. The community is located kitty-corner to Trinity Cathedral, near Biba’s restaurant and close to boutiques and art galleries. It also is just around the corner from Sutter General Hospital, five...
Photo of St Francis Manor
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Ivy Ridge Retirement Home
5 star
67%
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The staff here are all very good, and they are taking really good care of my loved one. They have a lot of things to do here, too! Recently, they had a singer/guitarist come in and perform. The price...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
IvyRidge Assisted Living is conveniently located at 23rd and U Street in Midtown Sacramento. IvyRidge is licensed for 36 residents in quiet and spacious rooms. We typically have a maximum of 30-32 residents. IvyRidge has been a healthcare facility for over fifty years. It was remodeled and...
Photo of Mercy McMahon Terrace
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
MERCY MCMAHON TERRACE IS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF BEAUTIFUL EAST SACRAMENTO.WE OFFER INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING WITH A WIDE ASSORTMENT OF ACTIVITIES FOR OUR RESIDENTS.WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU STOP BY FOR A TOUR AND MORE INFORMATION.
Photo of Park Place
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Park PlacePark Place is a 62+ community located in Sacramento, Sacramento County, CA. Sacramento is known for its rich history, major museums and dynamic arts and culture scene. Old Sacramento, the oldest part of the city, showcases quaint cobbled streets and numerous historic buildings, many...
Photo of The Riverview
5 star
17%
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17%
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I have nothing but nice things to say. They've been a very good fit. The only reason that I didn't give them a 5 is because my mother complains about the food sometimes. My father will eat the napkin if you...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Pioneer House offers our residents a continuum of care under one roof. Our residents can choose between retirement apartments, assisted living apartments, and skilled nursing care. That flexibility allows our residents to rest assured that whatever their needs are today or tomorrow, they do not...
Photo of Ping Yuen Apartments
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Margaret Mc Dowell Manor
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.

Our methodology

How we rank order the Sacramento community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Sacramento community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

How much does independent living cost in Sacramento, CA?

Independent living in Sacramento costs an average of $3,884 per month, based on A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount reflects average starting base rent and may not include care services, premium amenities, upgraded floor plans, dining packages, third-party services, or other extras.

Your actual monthly cost may vary based on the community’s location, apartment size, floor plan, included amenities, transportation options, and add-on fees. Some communities may also charge separately for pets, housekeeping, parking, salon services, guest meals, or upgraded in-unit amenities.

Sacramento’s average independent living cost is lower than the California average of $4,174 but slightly higher than the national average of $3,520. According to the Economic Research Institute, Sacramento’s overall cost of living is 24% higher than the national average but 10% lower than the average California city.[02] This can make the city appealing if you want access to California’s cultural amenities and health care systems without the higher costs found in some of the state’s other large cities.

Compared with other senior living options in Sacramento, independent living costs slightly more than assisted living, which averages $4,295 per month, and less than memory care, which averages $5,337 per month.[01] This pricing pattern can happen because independent living starting costs may be more bundled, while assisted living may start with a lower base rate and add separate fees for personal care. Memory care generally costs more because it includes dementia-focused support and secure facilities and programming.

Read more: Assisted Living vs. Independent Living: What’s the Difference?

The charts below are also based on average starting costs and do not include fees for care services, certain amenities, and any other extras.

Independent living costs in Sacramento, CA, vs. state and national averages

Sacramento, CA
$3,884/mo
U.S. national average
$3,520/mo

Independent living costs in Sacramento, CA, vs. other senior living options

$7,059/mo
Independent Living
$3,884/mo

Independent living costs in Sacramento, CA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$3,638/mo
Studio
$4,055/mo
1 Bedroom
$4,854/mo
2 Bedroom
$6,286/mo

Senior living costs in Sacramento vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Sacramento, CA
Column state: California
Column national: U.S.
Community typeSacramento, CACaliforniaU.S.
Independent Living$3,884/mo$4,174/mo$3,520/mo
Assisted Living$6,098/mo$6,206/mo$5,830/mo
Memory Care$7,059/mo$7,329/mo$6,999/mo
Independent Living
Sacramento, CA:$3,884/mo
California:$4,174/mo
U.S.:$3,520/mo
Assisted Living
Sacramento, CA:$6,098/mo
California:$6,206/mo
U.S.:$5,830/mo
Memory Care
Sacramento, CA:$7,059/mo
California:$7,329/mo
U.S.:$6,999/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Independent living costs in Sacramento, CA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly independent living costs have shifted over the past five years in Sacramento and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Sacramento, CACA stateNational

Independent living cost trends in Sacramento, CA

The table below shows how monthly independent living costs in Sacramento have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 average costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Sacramento, CA$3,766/mo$3,494/mo+7.8%
California$3,916/mo$3,864/mo+1.4%
National$3,416/mo$3,319/mo+2.9%
Sacramento, CA
2024 average cost:$3,766/mo
2023 average cost:$3,494/mo
Percent change:+7.8%
California
2024 average cost:$3,916/mo
2023 average cost:$3,864/mo
Percent change:+1.4%
National
2024 average cost:$3,416/mo
2023 average cost:$3,319/mo
Percent change:+2.9%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for independent living in Sacramento

Independent living is usually a private-pay senior living option in Sacramento. Monthly rates generally cover housing, shared amenities, meals or dining options, activities, and services that make day-to-day life easier. Because these communities are built around lifestyle and convenience rather than hands-on care, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most health insurance plans don’t pay for standard rent or basic community fees.

Private pay options

Many older adults use a mix of income, savings, and assets to pay for independent living. Common private pay sources include:

Planning ahead can help you compare monthly rent with the costs you may already pay for home maintenance, utilities, groceries, transportation, property taxes, and social activities.

Read more: How to Pay for Independent Living: 5 Methods

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers benefits that may indirectly help eligible veterans and surviving spouses manage retirement and senior living costs. These may include:

VA benefits usually do not pay independent living rent directly. However, if you eventually need assistance while living in your apartment, VA health care benefits may help cover certain services provided by third-party care professionals. Aid and Attendance may also help fund care if you qualify.

Before applying, consider working with a VA-accredited benefits counselor or veterans service officer. They can help you understand eligibility, gather paperwork, and avoid denials, delays, or a pension penalty period.

Read more: VA Aid and Attendance Benefit: Eligibility, Application Process, and Approval Tips

Resources for veterans in Sacramento

Sacramento is home to almost 17,000 veterans — about 4% of the city’s population.[04] These local and state resources can help with VA benefits, health care access, counseling, and other support.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps eligible people pay for health care and long-term support. In California, Medicaid is called Medi-Cal.

Medi-Cal does not pay for independent living room and board, rent, meals, or lifestyle amenities. However, if your needs change, Medi-Cal may help pay for some medically necessary services provided in your apartment by third-party providers.

Key Medi-Cal programs that may support independent living-related needs include: {{citations:4,5}}

  • Enhanced Care Management (ECM)
  • Community Supports
  • California’s standard Medicaid plan for aged, blind, and disabled residents

Some programs, such as the standard plan and ECM, are entitlements, meaning eligible individuals can receive services without waiting for an available slot. Other support programs may have limited availability depending on local funding and provider participation.

Depending on the program, Medi-Cal may help cover:

  • Home health services
  • Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
  • Meal assistance
  • Support with activities of daily living (ADLs)
  • Housekeeping or in-home support services

Eligibility is determined by income and asset limits, along with documented medical need.

Read more: Medicaid Long-Term Care: What Is It and What’s Covered?

Medicaid resources in Sacramento, California

To apply for Medi-Cal program, elderly residents in Sacramento can:

If you have questions about California’s Medicaid program, or if you need help completing, updating, or checking the status of an application, contact one of the organizations below:

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for adults 65 and older and certain younger people with disabilities or qualifying conditions.[06] Medicare does not pay for independent living rent, meals, housing, or lifestyle amenities.

You can still use Medicare while living in an independent living community. If you qualify, Medicare may cover medically necessary services provided by outside health care professionals, such as doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, durable medical equipment, therapy, or short-term home health care.

Medicare resources in Sacramento

Sacramento residents can contact the following resources for Medicare information and benefits counseling.

  • Agency on Aging Area 4
    1401 El Camino Ave., 4th Floor
    Sacramento, CA 95815
    Phone: 916-486-1876
    Email: contactus@agencyonaging4.org

What families are saying about independent living in Sacramento

Recent reviews for independent living in Sacramento

WellQuest of Granite Bay

4.2
The newness of the facility really stood out to us along with the variety of unit sizes they had available and the meal service.

Chateau On Capitol Avenue in Sacramento, CA

5.0
My 91 year old mother has been at Chateau on Capitol Ave. for about six months and has adapted well. She has made many new friends and is enjoying life there. The staff are very attentive and I'm impressed that every staff member calls her by name. It is a personal touch that I find endearing. ...
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Vintage Square at Westpark in Roseville, CA

4.0
My community is nice and quiet and I have met a lot of nice people. I am on my own and my apartment is approximately 600 sq feet with a good kitchen and dishwasher. They have an elevator available. They have a monthly calendar with activities and outings listed. There is going to be a luau this ...
Read more

What is independent living like in Sacramento?

Sacramento offers a relaxed but active setting for retirement, with state government, farm-to-fork dining, tree-lined neighborhoods, and riverfront recreation all close by. The city has a population of more than 535,000 people, and adults 65 and older make up 14% of its residents.[03]

Apartment-style living with California convenience

Independent living communities in Sacramento range from stand-alone senior living communities to larger combined-care campuses. Many communities offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartment layouts, with features such as patios, balconies, kitchenettes, walk-in showers, and shared outdoor spaces.

This style of living can be a good fit if you want fewer home maintenance tasks without giving up privacy or control over your schedule. In Sacramento, that may mean having more time for farmers markets, park visits, art events, volunteer work, or dinner with friends in Midtown or downtown.

Future flexibility without a care-first setting

Independent living is not typically a care setting, but some Sacramento communities are part of larger senior living campuses. Some of A Place for Mom partner independent living communities in Sacramento also offer assisted living or memory care on the same campus or in a connected care setting.[01]

This can be helpful if you want a maintenance-free lifestyle now and more flexibility for the future. Some residents may also coordinate support from third-party care providers if their needs change while they remain in their apartment.

Social calendars, dining, and pet-friendly amenities

Sacramento independent living communities often focus on dining, social connection, and everyday ease. A Place for Mom’s local partner data shows that many communities offer restaurant-style dining, professional chefs, outdoor dining spaces, fitness classes, devotional activities, and outings.[01]

The city’s food culture can also show up inside communities through seasonal menus, fresh ingredients, and private dining rooms for visiting family. Many communities are pet-friendly, and some offer courtyards, walking paths, or dog parks that make daily routines easier for residents with pets.

Sacramento independent living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Sacramento independent living communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Sacramento, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Sacramento independent living

Independent living communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Sacramento partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Sacramento, CANational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
24.9%
21.2%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
48.5%
35.7%
No sugar
No sugar
43.2%
32%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
52.4%
34.8%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
24%
11.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Sacramento independent living

Our independent living communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Sacramento communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Sacramento, CANational
Professional chef
Professional chef
45.9%
37.6%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
49.8%
44.8%
Room service
Room service
48.9%
38.2%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
31%
17.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Sacramento independent living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered independent living communities in Sacramento offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Sacramento, CANational
Activity director
Activity director
51.5%
46.5%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
34.1%
29.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
39.3%
34.2%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
55%
48.3%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
58.1%
50.1%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
61.6%
54.9%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
51.5%
44.2%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
47.6%
39.7%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
46.7%
43%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
55.5%
48.3%
Live performances
Live performances
55.5%
48.1%
Dances
Dances
34.5%
34.3%
Fitness center
Fitness center
32.3%
40.8%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
55.5%
47.6%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Sacramento? Highlights for seniors

Sacramento combines the benefits of a state capital with the feel of a smaller, tree-filled city. Older adults can enjoy museums, gardens, professional sports, farmers markets, riverfront trails, and easy day trips to nearby wine country, the Sierra foothills, and the Bay Area. These highlights can help you get a sense of daily life as you compare independent living options.

Top hospitals for seniors in Sacramento

Sacramento residents have access to several medical centers and health systems that support older adults managing chronic conditions, recovery needs, and specialty care.

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UC Davis Medical Center offers academic medical care in Sacramento, with services that include geriatrics, neurology, cancer care, cardiology, emergency care, and specialty treatment for complex health needs.

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Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento provides hospital care near Midtown and downtown Sacramento, including heart and vascular care, stroke care, emergency services, surgery, and other specialty services.

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Mercy General Hospital serves the East Sacramento area with emergency services, heart and vascular care, neurology, orthopedics, cancer care, and other services that may matter to older adults.

Transportation for seniors in Sacramento

Many Sacramento independent living communities help residents get around without relying on a personal vehicle every day. All of A Place for Mom partner independent living communities in Sacramento offer complimentary transportation, while around 58% provide transportation for a small fee.[01] Depending on the community, scheduled rides may help you reach appointments, errands, shopping, dining, and group outings.

Public transportation is available through the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), which operates bus and light rail service in the Sacramento area. SacRT offers discounted fares for adults 62 and older, people with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders.[07]

SacRT GO Paratransit Service provides shared-ride paratransit service for eligible riders who cannot use fixed-route buses or light rail because of a disability.[08]

Sacramento is somewhat walkable overall, with stronger walkability in areas such as Midtown, downtown, and parts of East Sacramento. Walk Score gives Sacramento the following transportation ratings out of 100:[09]

Transportation card image
49

Walk Score

Transportation card image
34

Transit Score

Transportation card image
67

Bike Score

Things to do in Sacramento for seniors and their families

Sacramento offers many ways to stay active, explore local history, and enjoy visits with family. The city’s flat terrain, mild weather, parks, and food culture can make outings feel approachable for many independent living residents.

Parks, gardens, and riverfront recreation

Sacramento’s parks and outdoor spaces make it easy for older adults to enjoy fresh air, scenic walks, and relaxing time outdoors throughout the year.

  • William Land Park is one of Sacramento’s major city parks, with green space, gardens, walking areas, and nearby family-friendly attractions.
  • McKinley Park offers a classic East Sacramento setting with paths, lawns, gardens, and places to sit or meet friends.
  • American River Parkway stretches along the American River and supports walking, biking, birding, picnicking, and scenic drives through regional park areas.
  • California State Capitol Park surrounds the State Capitol with gardens, monuments, and shaded paths in the heart of downtown Sacramento.
  • Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park offers guided tours and peaceful outdoor spaces, making it a relaxing option for an afternoon outing.
  • Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park combines Sacramento history with open, accessible grounds that are easy to explore at your own pace.

History, museums, and arts

Sacramento offers a mix of museums, historic landmarks, theaters, and cultural attractions that are easy to enjoy at a comfortable pace.

  • Crocker Art Museum features California art, European works, rotating exhibitions, classes, and events in a historic setting near downtown.
  • The California State Railroad Museum gives visitors a look at rail history, restored locomotives, and exhibits tied to Sacramento’s role in the development of the West.
  • The Old Sacramento Waterfront offers historic buildings, restaurants, shops, river views, and museums in a walkable district.
  • B Street Theatre at The Sofia hosts plays, concerts, comedy, and community performances in Midtown Sacramento.
  • The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a relaxing place to visit, reflect, or attend services.

Food, markets, and local flavor

Known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, Sacramento offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh local food, neighborhood markets, and casual dining experiences.

  • Midtown Farmers Market is a popular way to enjoy Sacramento’s farm-to-fork culture, with produce, flowers, prepared foods, and local vendors.
  • Downtown Commons gives residents and visitors access to restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and events near Golden 1 Center.
  • Visit Sacramento highlights the city’s farm-to-fork dining scene, including restaurants, markets, and seasonal food events.

Sports and recreation

From professional sports to community recreation programs, Sacramento provides a variety of ways for older adults to stay active and socially connected.

  • Sacramento Kings games at Golden 1 Center offer a lively indoor outing for basketball fans and visiting family.
  • Sacramento River Cats baseball games at Sutter Health Park in nearby West Sacramento can be a relaxed option for minor league fans.
  • City of Sacramento Access Leisure offers recreation opportunities designed for people with disabilities, including social, fitness, and community programs.

Independent living laws and regulations in California

Independent living communities aren’t typically licensed or regulated in the same way as assisted living and memory care communities. However, these communities must often meet state and city requirements, including building codes, fire safety regulations, and tenant rights laws that protect residents and renters. Learning about how independent living is regulated can help you make informed senior living decisions.

Read more: Independent living regulations in California

References

  1. A Place for Mom (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Economic Research Institute (2026, May 5). Cost of Living Data in Sacramento, California, United States.

  3. Census Reporter (2024). Sacramento, CA.

  4. California Department of Health Care Services. Enhanced care management and community supports.

  5. California Department of Health Care Services. Essential health benefits.

  6. Medicare.gov. Medicare.

  7. Sacramento Regional Transit District. Fares.

  8. Sacramento Regional Transit District. SacRT GO Paratransit Service.

  9. Walk Score. Living in Sacramento.

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More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Economic Research Institute (2026, May 5). Cost of Living Data in Sacramento, California, United States.

3.

Census Reporter (2024). Sacramento, CA.

4.

California Department of Health Care Services. Enhanced care management and community supports.

5.

California Department of Health Care Services. Essential health benefits.

6.

Medicare.gov. Medicare.

7.

Sacramento Regional Transit District. Fares.

8.

Sacramento Regional Transit District. SacRT GO Paratransit Service.

9.

Walk Score. Living in Sacramento.