10 Best Independent Living Communities in San Francisco, CA
With its warm climate and iconic landmarks, San Francisco offers a wonderful environment for seniors. The city is highly favored by seniors exploring their independent living options in California as it offers the perfect lifestyle for those who are still self-reliant but also want convenience and, sometimes, a little luxury.
If you’re considering putting down roots in the Golden City, this guide is for you. A Place For Mom partners with eight independent living communities in a 10-mile radius of downtown San Francisco, including areas such as Sausalito and the Marina District. We showcase the best listings, payment options and benefits, regulations, available medical facilities, demographics, the top activities the city has to offer, and more.
San Francisco Independent Living Facilities | 439 Reviews
My mother went to adult day care there 5 days a week. Everyday was different. They had exercises in chairs, people come in and sing. They had a lot of activities like groups that came from Japan, girl scouts...
Unique assisted living center where 90% of the residents are Japanese or of Japanese descent. Kokoro provides both a Western and Japanese menu for each meal, as well as many Japanese cultural...
They are doing an excellent job. They are treating her very well. It's kept clean. The food is really good, and if they are cooking something she doesn't like they will get her what the alternative is. They...
They have been very accommodating. They are very ethnic oriented, so there's a lot of Chinese, so it works well for my family.
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Unfortunately, while my Father-In-Law was at this facility it was around the time of the fires and because of that a lot of people moved in at once. My loved one is blind and he required a lot more attention...
My father has been living at Westborough for about a month now, and I feel he is enjoying his time there. The staff are very caring people who live up to what they say. This is very important to me, because...
Joyful Chapter is working out just fine. My mom enjoys it there and that's what counts. I have no complaints. It has been a good experience.
Our methodology
How we rank order the San Francisco community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders San Francisco 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
- Costs of independent living in the San Francisco area
- What families are saying about independent living in San Francisco
- How people pay for independent living in San Francisco
- Understand California laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in San Francisco
- San Francisco independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with San Francisco? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the San Francisco area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average actual cost of independent living in San Francisco is about $9,496 per month.{{citation: 1}} This includes all associated fees and service fee add-ons for in-house care, medication management, meals, and wheelchair-accessible facilities at A Place for Mom partner facilities.
You can also view the graphic below to see the average baseline costs without any add-on fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in San Francisco, CA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in San Francisco, CA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in San Francisco vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in San Francisco, CA by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in San Francisco over time
What families are saying about independent living in San Francisco
Recent reviews for independent living in San Francisco
Sycamore Hills By the Bay in Hercules, CA
Rosemont Gardens in San Leandro, CA
Sunrise of San Mateo
How people pay for independent living in San Francisco
Independent living in San Francisco can be funded in several ways. Seniors must choose carefully and stay aware of the limitations of some of these sources. For example, independent living communities aren’t senior care facilities, so the rent cannot be covered by Medicaid or Medicare — although seniors in independent living can still glean medically necessary in-home care services from these programs.
In this section, we’ll provide an overview of options such as private payment methods, VA benefits and resources, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Many retirees lean on private funds to support their independent lifestyles. Because these are not considered senior care facilities, certain options like long-term care insurance cannot cover the rent of independent living. Useful funding sources include personal savings, Social Security benefits, investment returns, pensions, and any of the following:
Number of veterans who live in San Francisco
About 57 percent of San Francisco veterans are 65+
If you are a veteran or your spouse has served in the armed forces, it’s essential to know that there are benefits available that can help with rent and medical expenses. In this section, we’ll look at some of the resources available that can help you determine your eligibility and apply for those benefits.
There are two programs that might prove very useful for veterans who want to settle down in San Francisco. First, the VA Pension is a flexible option that can go toward anything you need, be it rent payments or medical bills. Aid and Attendance is a monthly benefit that can cover the rent for independent living or in-home health care if it improves a veteran’s quality of life; to qualify, California veterans or their surviving spouses must need assistance with daily activities.
Veterans service officers can make the application process easier. Indeed, the first step should be to contact these VA-vetted and -recognized experts. Applying for veteran benefits is notoriously complex. However, your local veterans services officers can check for other benefits you might qualify for, assess your eligibility, and assist with any problems that might crop up during the application process. Assistance for San Francisco residents can be found at local veterans service organizations, the County Veterans Service Office, or through CalVet.
Resources for San Francisco veterans
County Veterans Service Office
2 Gough St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-934-4200
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – noon; 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
California Department of Veterans Services (CalVet)
1227 O St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 800-952-5626
Email
DAV California
13733 Rosecrans Ave.
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
Phone: 562-404-1266
American Legion CA Posts
401 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 559-875-8387
South San Francisco VFW | VFW Post 4103
920 Stonegate Drive
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Phone: 650-589-4030
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Also called Medi-Cal in California, this program provides health services to low-income older adults, among others. While Medicaid cannot cover your rent at an independent living facility, it can apply toward medically necessary in-home care services. These services can take place in your independent living community, thanks to the Home and Community-Based Services waiver program. Also called 1915(c) waivers, they allow all states to use Medicaid funds to conveniently offer those services at your place of residence for those eligible.
If you don’t already have Medi-Cal, first check your eligibility. You can also apply for Medi-Cal online. Both resources are very informative, but should you have any further issues, you can contact the local Medicaid office, the local Area Agency on Aging, or the ombudsman. Ombudsman services are free and confidential; they are provided locally by the Felton Institute, a San Francisco Human Services Agency community partner.
San Francisco resident Medicaid resources
Medicaid Office | San Francisco Human Services Agency
2 Gough St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-558-4700
Email: SFMedi-Cal@sfgov.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Area Agency on Aging
1650 Mission St., Fifth Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-355-3555
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
6221 Geary Blvd., Second Floor
San Francisco, CA 94121
Phone: 415-751-9788
Email: ombudsman@felton.org
Medicare cannot pay for the cost of living in an independent living community, but it can cover medical costs, like short-term medically necessary in-home care. You can also opt for these additional Medicare and adjacent resources to carry the costs of medical expenses:
- California’s Medicare Savings Programs can help reduce the cost of Medicare premiums or cover them altogether, as well as help with copayments.
- California’s Prescription Drug Discount Program provides savings on medications.
- The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) coordinates a variety of care and social services to help keep seniors independent as long as possible. You can check eligibility requirements online.
- The San Francisco Health Plan is a local Medicare Advantage plan option.
To be eligible for Medicare, you must be 65+ or have a disability. If you qualify, the next step is to apply online or visit the nearest Social Security Administration office. To help you with this process, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free counseling.
If you run into issues or have additional questions, you can also contact the local long-term care ombudsman, provided locally by the Felton Institute, a San Francisco Human Services Agency community partner.
San Francisco resident Medicare resources
Medicare Savings Programs
Phone: 800-541-5555
Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE)
Gee Center
1333 Bush St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: 415-292-8888
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
601 Jackson St., Second Floor
San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: 415-677-7520
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
San Francisco Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
6221 Geary Blvd., Third Floor
San Francisco, CA 94121
Phone: 415-751-9788
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Francisco Health Plan
7 Spring St.
San Francisco, CA
94105
Phone: 415-547-7800
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Social Security Administration Offices
90 Seventh St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
1098 Valencia St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
560 Kearny St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Understand California laws and regulations for independent living communities
In California, because independent living communities aren’t considered senior care facilities, they do not have to be licensed. However, they are still subject to rental, safety, and other laws.
One important requirement that independent living communities must comply with is the Fair Housing Act. According to this law, no landlord may refuse you as a tenant, or evict you, based on your appearance, gender, ethnicity, beliefs, health status, sexual orientation, or status as a recipient of a housing subsidy such as a Housing Choice Voucher (formerly known as Section 8). If you are the victim of such discrimination, please contact the San Francisco Human Rights Commission.
Independent living communities must also be ADA-compliant and ensure that people with disabilities can move freely around the property; those with support animals, as stated by the Fair Housing Act, may also not be discriminated against or refused a rental in a community where pets aren’t allowed.
Landlords must do things like keeping the plumbing in working order. Owners must also rectify leaking roofs, walls, and windows. Anything that threatens the health or safety of tenants must be fixed without delay. If you want to learn more about tenant laws and rights, the California Tenants Guide is very informative.
Laws and regulations for combined communities
In downtown San Francisco, there are five A Place for Mom partner independent living communities that combine with assisted living facilities. There are also three independent living partners that add assisted living and memory care into the mix. All these facilities must comply with the laws and regulations that apply to those additional types of senior care.
In California, all assisted living and memory care facilities must be licensed as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE). Both are licensed by the Department of Social Services’ California Senior Care Licensing Program. The California Code of Regulations also states that all facilities must have enough trained staff on duty to meet resident needs at all times.
Each facility must provide basic services, care, and supervision. These can include personal assistance with daily tasks, fun activities, providing arrangements for medical and dental care, helping with personal hygiene, offering assistance with medication, and monitoring diets or food intake. Other important services include healthy meals and snacks, housekeeping and laundry, and transportation.
Inspections and reports
In California, independent living communities are inspected by their own city if the rental property consists of four or more living units. The San Francisco Department of Public Health’s Apartment Inspection Program specifics and inspection reports can provide information on individual properties.
Combination independent living facilities that provide assisted living, memory care, or both are inspected on an annual basis by the Adult and Senior Care Regional Office. If you want to view reports from a particular facility, you have to contact your local regional office the Department of Social Services, and make a request to view the facility file or use this online facility search portal.
Requirements for living in an independent living community
Moving into an independent living community requires residents to be at least 55 years old, but this is not a hard-and-fast rule. However, by law, independent living facilities cannot accept residents who need a higher level of care, including 24-hour nursing care; assistance with all daily living activities; patients with communicable diseases; or those who are bedridden.
California Department of Health Contact Information
California Department of Public Health
1616 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-558-1784
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Francisco Department of Public Health Contact Information
San Francisco Department of Public Health
101 Grove St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-554-2500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for San Francisco independent living communities
San Francisco doesn’t currently have any regulations in place for COVID-19, but the city recommends that everyone take certain precautions.[04] Recommendations include avoiding those who are ill, keeping your home well-ventilated, and avoiding contact with others when you suspect you might be infected or have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Independent living communities can impose their own rules to keep residents safe. If you’re interested in a certain complex, don’t hesitate to contact the facility for further information.
Vaccinations.
Stay up-to-date with vaccinations and boosters
Masking.
You can wear a mask if you choose. It’s also a good idea to wear one when your immunity is low or you suspect that you might have contracted COVID-19.
Social distancing.
Avoid people who have tested positive for COVID-19
Quarantining.
Self-isolate when you suspect or have confirmed COVID-19
Types of independent living in San Francisco
Settling down in San Francisco can be a unique and thrilling experience. The city has a rich history and vibrant modern culture, meaning you will always have something to do or see. In this section, we cover just some of the highlights that you can look forward to as a Golden City resident of an independent living community.
A nature lover’s dream
Besides San Francisco’s bustling nature, the city is also famous for its pleasing weather and beautiful natural scenery. The mild climate allows people to enjoy outdoor activities, like visiting the city’s lovely parks and beaches. The temperature typically does not dip below 50 degrees or go above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be appealing to older adults who dislike extreme heat or cold. Most independent living facilities ensure you have plenty of ways to enjoy the outside by offering courtyards, outdoor grills, patios or balconies, or by being located near parks.
Generous room and facility amenities
Depending on the community, some of the best room amenities include wheelchair-accessible showers and doors, high-speed internet, full kitchens, air-conditioning, and cable TV. All of our partner facilities offer features like libraries, beauty salons, and arts and crafts centers; many also offer bonus features like in-house bars, cafés, fitness centers, game or common rooms, and dining rooms.
A variety of care options
San Francisco’s independent living communities provide multiple levels of care. This is a useful arrangement for couples where one person is self-reliant, but their spouse needs assistance, or for families who want to ensure their loved ones receive care in place across multiple life stages. In the downtown area, you can choose among five facilities that provide both assisted living and independent living and three communities that additionally offer memory care.
San Francisco independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in San Francisco independent living
Availability of select dining options in San Francisco independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in San Francisco independent living
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with San Francisco? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in San Francisco
Median annual income for San Francisco seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in San Francisco
UCSF Helen Diller Medical Center at Parnassus Heights
Rated as the fourth-best hospital in California, UCSF is a Level 1 Trauma Center, and nationally, it also ranks highly in geriatric specialty treatment and diabetes/endocrinology. The hospital is well-known for excellence in 14 surgical procedures, with strong expertise in cancer-related surgeries.
Kaiser Permanente San Francisco
Kaiser Permanente is another Level 1 Trauma Center, but this facility is better known for high performance in cardiac treatment, including heart failure, heart attack, and bypass surgery. KPSF is also famous for its excellent stroke response treatment.
San Francisco VA Medical Center
This hospital offers general primary care to veterans. The center also provides educational classes to caregivers of veterans. Specializing in cardiac surgery and epilepsy care, the center is additionally recognized for its expertise in combat-related brain and spinal cord injuries.
Transportation for seniors in San Francisco
San Francisco is regarded as one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the U.S. According to Walk Score, which grades cities on a scale with 100 as the best score, the Golden City has a rating of 89. This means that you can walk around comfortably and run errands on foot.
When transportation is needed, San Francisco has you covered. Walk Score gives the city a healthy transit score of 77 out of 100. San Francisco Muni’s public transportation system offers various modes of transport. You can choose between the city’s famous cable cars, public buses, historic streetcars, light rails, and trolleys, or join the city’s bike-friendly culture. To make sure seniors feel safe and comfortable getting around, the Muni offers group and one-on-one travel training.
Seniors can also rely on special taxis that accommodate disabilities. Paratransit’s Van Gogh shuttle is another popular service among older adults with physical and mental challenges. The Shop-a-Round shuttle takes eligible seniors and people with disabilities to the grocery store or to farmer’s markets.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in San Francisco
The Golden City is a top tourist and retirement destination, and it’s not hard to see why. Everywhere you look, there are historical sites, stunning nature scenes, and a lively culture that offers something for everyone.
First stop? For many, it’s the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island. But don’t forget to visit the Palace of Fine Arts, a prime events venue where entertainment never stops, and the California Academy of Sciences, a brilliant blend of rainforest, aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum.
When it comes to a multidimensional experience for nature lovers, there’s nothing quite like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Spread across 1,017 acres, you can enjoy a panorama of natural wilderness and also visit the area’s gardens, activity sites, annual events, and restaurants. Take a peek at the sea lions at Pier 39. If you prefer the indoors, there’s lots of excitement to be had at the California Grand Casino.
Sporty seniors can also tee off on six public golf courses, each a stunning creation of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, or enjoy the popular sport of pickleball on indoor and outdoor courts. For those who would rather be a spectator, San Francisco is home to numerous professional sports teams including the NFL’s 49ers, the MLB’s Giants, and the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. If you like collegiate sports, root for the teams that play for the University of San Francisco.
You can also visit the Golden Gate Park Senior Center for great activities. Open to any adult who is 55 and over, seniors can partake in programs that support social, physical, and mental health. The Sequoia Senior Center is another great hub for seniors. Members include adults with disabilities or those who are 60 and over. The site offers a creative space where you enjoy social opportunities, hot meals, a gym, and hobby-oriented classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Heritage Downtown, Coterie Cathedral Hill and Sunrise of San Mateo are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near San Francisco, CA. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in San Francisco is $5,430 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place For Mom. (2023). A Place For Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
San Francisco Department of Health. (March 2023). Coronavirus (COVID-19). Sf.gov.
U.S. News & World Report. (2022). UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center.
U.S. News & World Report. (2022). Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center.
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