10 Best Nursing Homes in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a popular place for seniors thanks to its temperate weather and diverse, vibrant culture. If you’re looking for nursing homes in the Golden City, it should be noted that the term nursing home is often used as a broad term that encompasses skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care facilities.
Nursing homes provide round-the-clock medical care for residents, while assisted living is where residents are helped with daily activities, such as using the bathroom or getting dressed. Memory care is where seniors with dementia and other memory-related ailments are cared for in a safe and supportive environment.
Nursing homes are also referred to as skilled nursing facilities. A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with standalone nursing homes; instead, we partner with 30 assisted living and memory care communities that might be right for your loved one’s needs. Each facility can be found within a 10-mile radius of downtown San Francisco, which includes areas such as Sausalito and the Marina District. In this guide, we’ll discuss payment methods, regulations, demographics, senior-specific resources, and the best city entertainment for seniors.
Nursing Homes Facilities near San Francisco, CA
I have known many residents of Buena Vista Manor House as a volunteer. The care is excellent and the atmosphere is warm. As a bonus, the food is delicious. I highly recommend Buena Vista Manor House to...
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...
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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 nursing homes in the San Francisco area
- What families are saying about nursing homes in San Francisco
- How people pay for a nursing home in San Francisco
- Understand California laws and regulations for nursing homes
- What to expect from nursing homes in San Francisco
- San Francisco nursing homes services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with San Francisco? Highlights for seniors
Costs of nursing homes in the San Francisco area
The monthly median cost of a nursing home in San Francisco runs about $11,566 for a semi-private unit and $14,068 for a private room.[01] For assisted living, A Place for Mom’s proprietary data places the average actual costs at $8,104 and $8,192 for a memory care facility.[02] This proprietary data includes all extra associated fees and service fee add-ons at A Place for Mom partner facilities. Such services could include in-house care, medication management, a variety of floor plans, security, healthy meals, wheelchair-accessible amenities, and more.
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in San Francisco, CA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in San Francisco, CA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in San Francisco vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Nursing Homes in San Francisco, CA by room type
Average cost of Nursing Homes in San Francisco over time
What families are saying about nursing homes in San Francisco
Recent reviews for nursing homes in San Francisco
Rosemont Gardens in San Leandro, CA
Sunrise of San Mateo
AlmaVia of San Rafael
How people pay for a nursing home in San Francisco
Whether you’re looking for skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care, there are several ways to fund your (or a loved one’s) accommodations and expenses. In the next section, we’ll discuss options like private payment methods, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare resources for seniors and how they’ll help with each type of arrangement.
Private pay sources can include pensions and Social Security benefits, but also personal lifetime savings assets like investment returns, savings accounts, and retirement accounts such as 401(k)s. You can also explore the options below:
Number of veterans who live in San Francisco
About 34% of San Francisco veterans are 75+
Seniors who have served in the armed forces could be entitled to veterans benefits. Some of these benefits can help offset the costs of living at an assisted living or memory care facility. We will discuss two of the most notable options, providing you with the resources to apply for both.
Veterans who are disabled or 65+ may be eligible for the VA Pension, a flexible resource that can be used for any expenses, including rent, medicine, or personal purchases. Another monthly payout is the Aid and Attendance benefit. To qualify, a veteran or their spouse must need help with daily tasks. This makes Aid and Attendance a valuable resource for residents of assisted living or memory care communities.
The application process for veteran benefits is complex. However, you can avoid frustration by teaming up with your local veterans services officers. These VA-vetted and -recognized experts can assist with checking eligibility, uncovering more benefits that you might qualify for, and assisting with any problems. San Francisco residents can make the most of veterans services officers’ expertise through CalVet, veterans services organizations (VSOs), and the VA office.
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.
In California, Medicaid is known as Medi-Cal. This health program doesn’t pay for custodial care (such as room and board) in assisted living or memory care facilities; it does, however, cover custodial costs in nursing homes.
Residents in assisted living and memory care communities can still benefit from Medi-Cal. Through Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, or 1915(c) waivers, states can utilize Medi-Cal funds to provide aspects of senior care to qualifying individuals within the community — rather than in a nursing home.
Not covered yet? You can easily view the program’s eligibility requirements and apply for Medi-Cal online. Don’t hesitate to contact your local Medicaid office, the Agency on Aging, or the local ombudsman for answers to any questions that may not be covered by these resources.
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 is a federal health insurance program for seniors who are eligible — that includes seniors who are 65 or older and have Social Security benefits. It doesn’t cover long-term custodial care in assisted living or memory care communities. While it will cover the costs of being in a nursing home, it will only pay for that in the short term and not as a long-term care solution.
However, seniors are encouraged to consider Medicare benefits as they can assist with medically necessary in-home care provided at an assisted living or memory care facility. The following resources can help reduce your medical expenses even further:
- California’s Medicare Savings Programs can defray the costs of Medicare copayments or premiums for qualified individuals. In some cases, the costs will be reduced, and in other cases, they’ll be covered completely.
- The state’s Prescription Drug Discount Program can help reduce medication costs for seniors.
- The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in San Francisco can aid eligible seniors in accessing social services and health care while they’re in assisted living or memory care. This is for seniors who would otherwise qualify for a nursing home level of care.
- The San Francisco Health Plan is designed for-low income seniors in the San Francisco area.
To access Medicare coverage, you can visit your local Social Security office or apply for Medicare online. If you have questions or need help navigating the Medicare application process, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free one-on-one assistance for seniors and their families. Additionally, the long-term care ombudsman is another resource families can turn to for help.
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 nursing homes
In this section, we cover important points about how long-term care facilities are regulated in California. Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care facilities must all start by obtaining a license to operate.
Nursing homes
Skilled nursing facilities are licensed by the California Department of Public Health’s Center for Healthcare Quality’s Licensing and Certification Program.
Nursing home regulations call for adequate staff at nursing homes and outline that residents must receive 3.2 hours of nursing care per day. Individual care plans must be created for each resident that outlines the care they will receive and exactly how it will be delivered. Infection control, medications, food service, and accident prevention are just a few more of the key items the laws and regulations for nursing homes cover.
In addition to state laws and regulations, the federal government also regulates nursing homes. Quality surveys are performed in accordance with federal requirements to ensure that these facilities remain compliant. These surveys are done alongside the California state inspections. To see the results of inspections, use the Cal Health Find Database and choose skilled nursing facility from the facility type drop-down menu.
Assisted living and memory care facilities
Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) are what California calls assisted living facilities.
They have to be licensed by the Department of Social Services’ California Senior Care Licensing Program. This also goes for memory care facilities, which are simply a subtype of assisted living.
Both assisted living and memory care facilities have to help residents with activities of daily living, provide housing and three daily meals, and help residents take their medications. Other laws and regulations stipulate that staff members must pass criminal background checks and have a prescribed amount of training. There must be enough staff members on hand to take care of resident needs at all times, and someone must always be awake during the night.
Additional standards apply to RCFEs providing memory care. Primarily that staff must have specialized training in how to handle the behaviors of those with dementia or Alzheimer’s and be able to provide appropriate care. Facilities must also have safety measures in place to keep residents safe and secure from wandering and exit-seeking behaviors.
To ensure facilities are following the rules and regulations, annual inspections are conducted. The California Department of Social Services provides a facility search webpage so you can view the results of inspection reports for assisted living and memory care facilities.
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 nursing homes
The San Francisco Department of Public Health provides the following guidelines for all long-term care facilities: People must be screened and monitored for symptoms, including staff, visitors, vendors, residents returning from an outing, and anyone else who enters the facility.
Some communities are likely to have their own guidelines in place. If you have a specific facility in mind, don’t hesitate to contact its staff for more information.
Vaccinations.
Staff must have an initial series of COVID-19 vaccines and at least one booster.
Masking.
Specific to San Francisco, staff must wear a mask when working with residents; this is more strict than California’s guidelines.
Facility cleanliness.
Facilities are required to disinfect surfaces per CDC guidance and in accordance with Cal/OSHA standards.
Staff safety.
Staff are asked to wear personal protective equipment as needed.
Quarantining.
Quarantines are not mandated. However, staff and residents are encouraged to isolate themselves for five days after the start of symptoms; they should wear a mask for a minimum of 10 days after.
What to expect from nursing homes in San Francisco
Moving to a senior care facility can be tough, but once you know more — especially about the perks and amenities — the choice might feel less stressful. In this section, we provide an overview of what to expect from these communities in San Francisco.
A wide range of living arrangements
Although A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with any standalone nursing homes in San Francisco, we do have 30 partners under the assisted living and memory care umbrella. There’s one standalone memory care facility, as well as two standalone assisted living facilities. The rest are various combinations of independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
A strong focus on health
Seniors who retire to San Francisco long-term care communities can expect a comprehensive approach to physical and mental health services. The facilities are designed to be safe and calming, often resembling a home-like environment with gardens. Health care services can include a variety of therapies, medication administration assistance, special diets, on-site nursing care, emergency preparedness, and more. More than half have a visiting podiatrist, while others have visiting physical, occupational, and speech therapists.
Entertainment outlets for a variety of personalities
Seniors who love spending time on their own, perhaps in the company of a good tale, can enjoy facilities like in-house libraries and Wi-Fi for movies. Residents can also socialize, exercise, learn new hobbies, go on trips in the sunny City by the Bay, and participate in game nights, BBQs, picnics, and a whole lot more. Overall, San Francisco’s assisted living and memory care facilities have a strong focus on stimulating and fun activities to ensure that seniors remain physically active, mentally engaged, and happy.
San Francisco nursing homes services and amenities
Availability of select care services in San Francisco nursing homes
Availability of select dementia care services in San Francisco nursing homes
Availability of select dietary accommodations in San Francisco nursing homes
Availability of select dining options in San Francisco nursing homes
Availability of select programs and activities in San Francisco nursing homes
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
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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
Transportation for seniors in San Francisco
While many assisted living or memory care community residents may still be somewhat physically active, it’s best not to use transit without the presence of a caregiver. The first place to look for transportation is with the communities themselves. Indeed, 73% of A Place for Mom’s partner communities offer complimentary transportation services to their seniors; 40% offer at-cost transportation.
However, since 67% of these facilities are located close to public transportation, it’s easy to make use of San Francisco Muni’s public transportation system — especially with a loved one along for the ride.
In addition to the discounted rates, seniors with disabilities can travel via special taxis, the Van Gogh Shuttle, and ADA-regulated van travel options. Caregivers can also expect some assistance; Group ParaVan gives reduced rates to one companion, and Shop-a-Round is a useful, ADA-compliant shuttle that not only takes seniors shopping but can also help them navigate the store and pack groceries away. All paratransit drivers are also trained to handle medical emergencies.
Senior activities in San Francisco
San Francisco is known for its vibrant, ever-changing landscape, with lots to see and do. Because it’s best for residents of assisted living and memory care to enjoy trips with caregivers, family, and friends, this provides the perfect opportunity for them to socialize and reconnect with loved ones while having a day out and about.
Get a taste of natural medicine
According to scientists, older adults who interact with nature experience better sleep, cognitive function, psychological health, and more happiness. They also experience a reduction in anxiety. San Francisco is brimming with green parks, but a great place to take your senior is Golden Gate Park. This huge reserve is perfect for a picnic, but you can also stroll through the park’s magnificent gardens or grab a snack at one of the many restaurants. If your loved one loves the ocean, stars, and history, the California Academy of Sciences is a must. This destination has an aquarium, massive rainforest, planetarium, and natural history museum.
Grab a show, a meal, or a spin at the table
Another popular option for seniors — especially those who are energetic and interested in a show — is the city’s live entertainment scene. There’s plenty to do at the California Grand Casino, while San Francisco also hosts several outdoor festivals, concerts, and theater pieces.
There’s also no shortage of places —or menus — to explore for a bite to eat. San Francisco is one of the top food cities in the world, filled with everything from fish-and-chip shops to 3-star Michelin restaurants. You can truly experience the best of local and international flavors while catching up over a good meal and even better conversation.
Cheer on your favorite team
San Francisco is a sports aficionado’s dream. For a collegiate atmosphere, seniors and their loved ones can attend sporting events at the University of San Francisco. For those more interested in professional sports, the city has the NFL’s 49ers, the MLB’s Giants, and the NBA’s Golden State Warriors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coterie Cathedral Hill, Sunrise of San Mateo and Oakmont of Cardinal Point, a CCRC are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near San Francisco, CA. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in San Francisco is $6,056 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
Genworth Financial. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.
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.
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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