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116 Assisted Living Facilities near San Diego, CA

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DEV | TEST h1 template (view-level fallback) Assisted Living

Last Updated: 6/29/24

A California paradise known for its beaches, warm ocean breezes, and endless entertainment opportunities, San Diego is a wonderful place for seniors to retire. Resort-style San Diego assisted living communities with luxe amenities await future residents who may benefit from this level of care.

This all-inclusive guide to assisted living in San Diego contains helpful information about assisted living communities in A Place for Mom’s network, such as the costs of assisted living in San Diego and over 1,000 community reviews. We also discuss how seniors typically pay, what can be expected at these communities, and the local laws and regulations overseeing San Diego’s assisted living facilities.

San Diego Assisted Living Facilities | 997 Reviews

Showing 116 communities
Last Updated: 6/29/24
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Best Meals and Dining
Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.
Starting price (per month)
Average starting price of Assisted Living in San Diego, CA is $4,552/month. Learn more
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Types of care available in San Diego, CA

Assisted Living

Average starting price $4,552/month
Average starting price $5,533/month
Average starting price $5,540/month
Average starting price $4,440/month
Average starting price $3,469/month
Average starting price $1,898/month
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in San Diego, CA
White Sands, a CCRC in La Jolla, CA
5.0

White Sands facility has everything from independent living to skilled nursing. They have a lot of activities to offer, it is in a really beautiful location. We could not be happier with our decision, we know our mother is safe there. The food is excellent with a wide range of choices. The rooms are very nice and adequate, they have many options to choose from. Our loved one has a beautiful view.

La Costa Golf Care in Carlsbad, CA
4.5

There are not a ton of activities at La Costa but my aunt does participate in a few. She has a patio and enjoys going outside. The staff are very nice and helpful. I have not tried the food but my aunt seems to like it and it seems to have a lot of nutrients.

Lilac Chateau I in Santee, CA
5.0

It was the best! I was treated with love ans respect, great food, if I ever run away from home this is where I will come! Thank for taking great care of me!

Silvergate Rancho Bernardo

16061 Avenida Venusto, San Diego, CA 92128

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
Photo of Silvergate Rancho Bernardo
17
17 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care
See all Americare Health and Retirement, Inc. communities

Newly constructed, the separate Memory Care Suites building on Silvergate’s beautiful retirement campus provides seniors with a higher level of award-winning care in a secure, nurturing environment. Our “Neighborhood Design” eliminates long hallways for a more familiar home-like setting. Drawing...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.8(22 reviews)

After researching many facilities in San Diego, we easily made the decision to place our mom at Silvergate Rancho Bernardo. No doubt, it was the best of the facilities we toured. The well-thought-out design...

Atria Collwood

5308 Monroe Avenue, San Diego, CA 92115

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Atria communities

Atria Collwood is a senior residence located in the famous city of San Diego, California. Residents here enjoy access to highly qualified doctors, specialists, hospitals and medical centers. This active city features beautiful coastal views, great fishing, sailing, and many ways to stay active....

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.3(98 reviews)

The friendliness of the staff gets a 5+. (There have been 2 or 3 cooks since my mom has been there and the current one is not the best). It's a very personal choice but Atria has been a great fit for my mom....

Stellar Care

4518 54th Street, San Diego, CA 92115

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
14
14 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care

Located in the heart of San Diego, the 123-apartment community offers studio & one bedroom apartments each with a private bathroom and individual climate control to ensure your comfort. We encourage you to bring your own furnishings and decoration to make you apartment your own. Residents feel...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.6(38 reviews)

The staff is very attentive to the residents and notice things that might become problems. I would and have recommended Stellar Care to others I know.

Pacifica Senior Living Rancho Penasquitos

12979 Rancho Penasquitos Blvd, San Diego, CA 92129

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
19
19 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Pacifica Senior Living communities

Set among the canyons and nature preserves of northern San Diego County, with a central location off Interstate 15, Pacifica Senior Living Rancho Peñasquitos is a vibrant senior living community designed to help older adults find greater well-being.This independent and assisted living community...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.1(80 reviews)

I would recommend to others, gladly. Place for Mom helped me so much in our family's difficult journey. My Place for Mom advisor has been helping a good friend of mine with her mother's issues. Thank you...

Lantern Crest Senior Living

800 Lantern Crest Way, Santee, CA 92071

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

At Lantern Crest Senior Living, we offer a variety of community features. Residents can enjoy regular off-site adventures and excursions. Cats and dogs are allowed in private quarters. Our property is conveniently located near accessible public transportation. We offer free wi-fi and high speed...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.3(35 reviews)

The staff is really friendly and know most everyone by name. They get along well with the residents and each other. Some even sing going around the halls and into the rooms. Housekeeping is weekly and done...

Novellus Clairemont

5219 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92117

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Novellus Living communities

Redefine your independence with more time for what you want to do.Here at our assisted living community, you get to redefine your independence, pursue your favorite hobbies and live your life your way. Whether that’s connecting with new friends or trying something new like yoga, you have choices...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
3.9(78 reviews)

We moved my sister in in February. I received notice today that her both her rent and her Level of Care monthly charges are going up by almost [amount removed] on 7/1! I'm in shock! This is an older...

Ivy Park at Sabre Springs

12515 Springhurst Dr, San Diego, CA 92128

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
6
6 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Oakmont Management Group communities

Sunrise of Sabre Springs is an assisted living and memory care community. Residents can live in Assisted Living without care and age in place, adding in care as needed. Every resident receives a customized care plan that addresses their individual needs by a designated care manager who get to...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.5(39 reviews)

Very friendly and helpful staff. The facility is very homey with a lot of enriching activities. The room sizes are nice and we really like the layout which makes it very comfortable for my mom.

Oakmont of Pacific Beach

955 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Photos available
12
12 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
See all Oakmont Management Group communities
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.8(10 reviews)

My dad was previously a resident at Oakmont of Pacific Beach for a short time. I can't say enough how good the experience was. I am an emergency room physician and I have a lot of experience with Assisted...

Belmont Village Sabre Springs

13075 Evening Creek Dr S, San Diego, CA 92128

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
12
12 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
See all Belmont Village communities

The Belmont Village facility at Sabre Springs is located in the attractive residential community of Poway. Situated in northeast San Diego County, Poway is known as 'The City in the Country' and prides itself on the fact that much of the area is preserved as dedicated open space. With great views...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.4(61 reviews)

Much better than I expected. Staff are very friendly and responsive to individual needs. Restaurant menu and serving staff We are in one of the smaller one bedroom apartments and it is perfect for us....

Cozy Cove-A Home for the Elderly

9431 Reagan Road, San Diego, CA 92126

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
8
8 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care, Care Homes

Cozy Cove - a home of the elderly, is a labor of love, knowledge and skills. Its proud owners are both healthcare workers and confident in rendering care and training its staff. They take this business seriously without any shortcuts in following the state protocols.We are centrally located and...

... Read more
4.7(3 reviews)

We had been to Cozy Cove-A Home for the Elderly, a memory care facility in San Diego, CA, when we were seeking for a similar facility for mother, who is currently residing at [removed]. The Cozy Cove-A Home...

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ActivCare at 4S Ranch

10603 Rancho Bernardo Road, San Diego, CA 92127

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care
See all ActivCare Living, Inc communities

ActivCare 4S Ranch is a full-service memory care community that provides specialized assisted living for those with Alzheimer's or related dementias.As pioneers in memory care, ActivCare has been enhancing life for those with memory loss for more than 30 years. It's our sole focus.Purpose-built...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
5.0(5 reviews)

My husband who has Alzheimer's, has been a resident at ActivCare at 4S Ranch for [time frame removed]. Before I placed my husband in their care, I researched and visited at least 15 facilities in my area. ...

Torrey Pines Senior Living

13101 Hartfield Ave, San Diego, CA 92130

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
17
17 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
See all Stellar Senior Living communities

Do more of what you love every day.At our continuing care retirement community (CCRC), you’ll have the lifestyle you want, plus care if you need it with assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing all on one campus.With several floorplans to choose from, including studio, one-bedroom and...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.8(47 reviews)

We were so impressed with the nurses & caregivers at Torrey Pines ~ clearly overworked, but doing their best to get to all residents, and always kind & cheerful to my father and family. The front office...

ActivCare at Mission Bay

2440 Grand Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care
See all ActivCare Living, Inc communities

Located in Pacific Beach just minutes away from Mission Bay Park, ActivCare Mission Bay is a specialized memory care community for those with memory loss that opened in 2014. ActivCare Mission Bay is home to a vibrant community of residents who enjoy a daily schedule of activities designed for...

... Read more
4.3(4 reviews)

I first visited this facility shortly before it opened over 10 years ago. Revisiting it for a family member, I found it to be a very pleasant & safe environment, & very convenient to many outings. The staff...

Golden Living of Pt. Loma

3223 Duke St, San Diego, CA 92110

1
1 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

Golden Living is located in the Loma Portal area of San Diego, just west of Mission Bay. Golden Living is conveniently located near several large shopping areas and numerous doctor's offices. Golden Living strives to make all of their residents feel at home by urging residents to decorate their...

... Read more
2.7(10 reviews)

The staff provides quality care in a professional manner. The staff is outstanding. I am grateful to this facility for their continued consistent respectful care for the patients and inclusion of the family.

Monarch Cottage

7630 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
14
14 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care

Welcome to Monarch Cottage La Jolla!About Us:Monarch Cottage La Jolla is a premier, senior living community focused on providing exceptional services to residents with memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s, dementia or other cognitive impairment, or who need assisted living services, respite...

... Read more
Enclosed Courtyard
Special Dining Programs
3.9(7 reviews)

Deciding to entrust your family member to strangers is a big leap of faith, regardless of situation or cost. I visit Monarch regularly and see how our mom is treated. I've seen my mom open up and re-engage...

Rancho Santa Fe Villa

8292 Run of the Knolls, San Diego, CA 92127

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
9
9 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care

If your loved one is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you will discover that our Rancho Santa Fe Villa Assisted Living Facility offers an unprecedented level of personalized attention and care. You will also appreciate the value of knowing that the world around the person you...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.6(9 reviews)

The beautiful home at Rancho Santa Fe Villa was always kept spotless and clean. Located in an exclusive residential community, it was a very clean facility at all times. The staff was very caring and...

Monte Vista Village

2211 Massachusetts Avenue, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
24
24 Photos available
8
8 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Pacifica Senior Living communities

Monte Vista Village is a charming senior community in Lemon Grove, CA, in San Diego County. We offer excellent assisted living and independent living options. Located amongst 7.5 acres of land (including a stunning tiered waterfall), Monte Vista Village is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.5(78 reviews)

Lovely grounds. Kind and caring staff. Good food. Nice amenities and fun activities . I would highly recommend Monte Vista Village to others looking.

The Montera

5740 Lake Murray Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
19
19 Photos available
9
9 Floor plans available
Best Meals and Dining
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all MBK Senior Living communities

Tucked away on a gorgeous property in La Mesa, CA, just minutes from downtown San Diego, The Montera defines care-focused senior living. From well-appointed studio and one bedroom apartments, to personalized care plans designed for each Assisted Living resident, to rejuvenating short-term stays,...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.1(89 reviews)

It is a great place, My father really likes it. The food is really good and he likes the entertainment. Convenient parking is very limited? It has been good. They have some very strict rules about...

Grossmont Gardens

5480 Marengo Ave, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
18
18 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Vista La Mesa Senior Living Inc communities

Lease by October 29 and get $1,000 off your rent for the first three months. THAT’S A SAVINGS OF $3,000!*We are continuing to admit new Residents, where possible and appropriate, to help residents and families in need. We will do all we can to help those who are in need of our services now and...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.0(135 reviews)

I don't require medical care. I'm home-bound in my apt so I don't see the grounds or activities. Everyone I do see are very nice. Still having problems getting 1 meal a day delivered to me. ( after 18...

Grossmont Gardens Memory Care

4960 Mills St, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
24
24 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care
See all Vista La Mesa Senior Living Inc communities

Lease by October 29 and get $1,000 off your rent for the first three months. THAT’S A SAVINGS OF $3,000!*We are continuing to admit new Residents, where possible and appropriate, to help residents and families in need. We will do all we can to help those who are in need of our services now and...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.7(54 reviews)

Wonderful people and care at Memory Care. They were very understanding when [name removed] would block the public restroom (his "office"). He kept climbing out of bed and trying to sleep on floor, so they...

Westmont of La Mesa

9000 Murray Drive, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
21
21 Photos available
7
7 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
See all Westmont Living communities
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.8(14 reviews)

The Westmont of La Mesa is a beautiful community that is kept clean and has friendly staff working there. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would recommend this community to other families who...

Sungarden Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care

2045 Skyline Drive, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
13
13 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
See all Sungarden Terrace communities

Sungarden Terrace is family owned for over 19 years and takes great pride in providing excellent care in a warm, nuturing environment. Some of our staff have been with us since our doors opened. Our reviews are all 4 and 5 star reviews focusing on great care, a family-like atmosphere, excellent...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.3(34 reviews)

We were enthralled by the welcoming atmosphere of Sungarden Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care from the minute we entered. The building has been meticulously maintained and is constructed to make...

Casa De Vida Senior Living

4633 Denwood Road, La Mesa, CA 91942

6
6 Photos available
Provides: Memory Care, Care Homes

Casa De Vida Senior LivingCasa De Vida Senior Living is a world-class residential care home that is situated in the sparkling city of Los Angeles, CA in the sprawling County of Los Angeles. Our responsive community overlooks the iconic Hollywood sign. Three mountains reaching up to 3000m surround...

... Read more
5.0(1 review)

All around they are a benchmark for other places. I viewed and interviewed a lot of places and this one was great.

Coronado Retirement Village

299 Prospect Place, Coronado, CA 92118

8
8 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

Welcome to Coronado's Luxurious Senior Living! Thank you for your interest in Coronado Retirement Village. We are a family owned & operated licensed community that offers high Secure (Memory) Care. With beautiful views of San Diego Bay and the historic Coronado Bridge, our residents enjoy the...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.6(16 reviews)

Hello! My family highly recommends Coronado Retirement Village as a wonderful place for our 89-year-old mother to live. She has her own private room with a large window, private bathroom and shower, and...

Ivy Park at La Jolla

810 Turquoise Street, San Diego, CA 92109

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
16
16 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Oakmont Management Group communities

About Sunrise of La JollaCommunity & Location Highlights:Conveniently located in San Diego, CAClose to Scripps Memorial Hospital La JollaGorgeous views of the Pacific oceanNear La Jolla Country Club and La Jolla's downtownSunrise of Pacific Beach in San Diego, California, provides exclusive...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Special Dining Programs
4.2(30 reviews)

I highly recommend this facility to others. The food is really good. The décor is very nice and perfectly suited to the tastes of my mother's generation. The high ceiling in her room is nice. The staff are...

Viewing 1-25 out of 116 communities

Costs of assisted living in the San Diego area

According to A Place for Mom’s 2023-2024 proprietary data, the average price families pay for San Diego assisted living communities is $5,100 per month.[01] This includes room and board, care fees, and add-ons that families paid to our partner communities.

Costs in assisted living vary depending on location, floor plan, care services, and specific amenities. For example, pet rent or choosing a larger floor plan may lead to additional monthly costs.

The following cost figures represent average monthly starting costs for assisted living in the area. Starting costs don’t always include additional fees and full care costs.

Average cost comparisons near San Diego, CA

45.77 miles from you

Temecula, CA

$3,321

per month on average

See communities

Your zip code

San Diego, CA

$4,553

per month on average

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15.39 miles from you

Chula Vista, CA

$4,099

per month on average

See communities

How people pay for assisted living in San Diego

Paying for assisted living in San Diego, California, can be done in a variety of ways. Seniors can use personal finances, public resources, or a combination of both to cover the costs related to assisted living. You can browse our guide to payment methods below.

Private pay methods for assisted living in San Diego

Seniors and their families have a variety of ways to finance the costs of assisted living in San Diego using their personal assets. The following resources explain some common ways seniors and their families cover the costs associated with assisted living:

San Diego laws and regulations for assisted living facilities

Assisted living facilities in San Diego must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, also known as the CDSS. The CDSS is responsible for regulating and monitoring assisted living facilities and all other senior care facilities, often referred to in California as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE). The CDSS also licenses any Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) — facilities that offer a spectrum of senior care services, from independent living and assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing care.

In a few cases, a community can operate as an RCFE without a license. These exceptions include:

  • Health facilities or clinics
  • Facilities that substitute prayer or spiritual means for medical or nursing services
  • Recovery houses for those with addiction

All licensed assisted living facilities in California must assess a senior via interviews and by reviewing their health records before welcoming them as a resident. Once a senior moves in, these facilities must comply with the following regulations:

  • House a maximum of only two residents per bedroom
  • Provide individual privacy in each bathroom
  • Ensure bedrooms have enough room to accommodate equipment, such as wheelchairs and walkers
  • Provide clean and accessible common rooms for residents
  • Provide activities involving social, leisure, and daily living skills

The CDSS inspects facilities once a year. To renew a license, an assisted living facility must provide continuing education for community administrators. In addition, the CDSS must inspect a facility within 10 days of receiving a complaint.

Licensed assisted living facilities and their inspection reports are available to the public via the CDSS Care Facility Search. Scroll down to “Search By Facility Group” and select “Elderly Assisted Living.” Next, you can select the “Facility Type” and San Diego County, then click on the search button. You can also search by facility name or address.

California Department of Public Health contact information

California Department of Public Health
1616 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95899

Phone: 916-558-1784

Website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/

COVID-19 regulations for San Diego assisted living facilities

San Diego County still has COVID-19 guidelines in place to help protect its residents. The most current recommendations for individuals include staying current with COVID-19 vaccines and getting tested if symptoms are suspected. For the most part, mask-wearing is not required. However, if you have COVID-19 symptoms, had a recent positive test, or have been exposed to the virus, San Diego County asks that you wear a mask in public. Masks are also required in at-risk settings such as long-term care, senior care, and health care centers.

Read the most recent San Diego County COVID-19 guidelines here.

Vaccinations. San Diego County encourages all citizens to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations.

Masking. Masks aren’t required in public unless you have COVID-19, have been exposed to COVID-19, or are visiting an at-risk setting.

Fast facts about assisted living in San Diego

26

Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market

4.2/5.0 average in-network rating
69% of partner assisted living facilities offer pet-friendly accommodations
30% of partner assisted living communities offer Hoyer lifts — mobility assistance devices
46% of partner assisted living communities have an on-site physician
44% of partner assisted living facilities have on-site skilled nursing services

5

Number of people we referred to our partner assisted living facilities in 2022-2023

81

Average age of residents we referred in San Diego
Percentage of referred residents who are female

What assisted living is like in San Diego

Assisted living in San Diego offers the supportive care seniors need, while giving them access to luxe amenities, an ever-interesting coastal lifestyle, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Read on to learn more about what you can expect from assisted living communities in San Diego.

Variety of senior care options on one campus

Many of San Diego’s assisted living facilities offer multiple senior care services in a single location. Some facilities offer on-site memory care, some exist within an independent living community, and others offer a full range of services. Many assisted living communities even offer on-site therapies, like physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Facilities with all care types on one campus are sometimes called Continuing Care Retirement Communities (or CCRCs). It’s worth noting that assisted living facilities licensed as CCRCs usually have an initial buy-in fee in addition to the monthly cost of room, board, and care services.

Whether licensed as a CCRC or not, assisted living communities that offer multiple levels of care on one campus enable seniors to age in place worry-free. Seniors who choose these facilities can rest assured their evolving needs will be met, and they likely won’t have to move again if their care needs change.

Senior-specific activities and resort-style amenities

Seniors who choose assisted living facilities in San Diego are set up to enjoy beautiful weather and a variety of perks. Activities offered by the community, such as fitness classes, volunteer programs, and live on-site entertainment, make for enriching social experiences. Visits to local museums, outings to sunny beaches, and lively tours of SeaWorld San Diego also await residents who want to maximize each moment.

Luxe amenities are also found in many of San Diego’s assisted living communities. Residents can enjoy on-site fine dining experiences, including full table service in community restaurants with meals crafted by professional culinary chefs.

Many communities also offer the following amenities:

  • Full service on-site salons
  • Therapy spas
  • Fitness centers designed for seniors
  • Heated swimming pools
  • Pristine walking trails
  • Cozy movie theaters
  • Convenient concierge services

Ocean views and beachfront access

Perhaps the most iconic feature of San Diego are its many beaches. Seniors will find several assisted living communities that take advantage of this idyllic landscape by providing ocean views, pools, and short walking paths to the nearest sandy beaches. Some even offer exclusive, private beach access and rooftop decks overlooking the ocean. These unique features of the San Diego assisted living lifestyle allow residents to soak up the California sunshine and relax to the sound of the crashing waves, all while receiving care in the community of their choice.

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.

Seniors guide to the city of San Diego

489122

Number of residents in San Diego who are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
14%

Percentage of the San Diego population that is 65+[04]

77

Average high temperature (Fahrenheit) in August — San Diego’s warmest month, according to Weather Spark

Health care for seniors in San Diego

Senior residents in San Diego have access to several nationally ranked hospitals and senior health care centers, several of which are located near San Diego’s assisted living facilities.

UC San Diego Health – La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals

UC San Diego Health – La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals are teaching hospitals that provide general and surgical care. They’re nationally ranked for several areas of adult care, including cancer surgeries, cardiology, and their geriatric clinic.[06]

Hospital locations

Find a doctor

Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla

Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla provides general and surgical care. They’re nationally ranked for care including cardiology and orthopedics.[06]

Hospital locations

Find a doctor

Sharp Memorial Hospital

Sharp Memorial Hospital is nationally ranked for lung surgery and urology. This hospital also provides general medical and surgical care, in addition to having geriatric specialists and several senior resource centers.[06]

Hospital locations

Find a doctor

Transportation for seniors in San Diego

Many of San Diego’s assisted living communities offer scheduled transportation to residents and their visitors for exploring, running errands, and traveling to appointments. Across A Place for Mom’s partner communities, 84% offer complimentary transportation and 48% offer transportation at cost.

San Diego Public Transportation also has a program called PRONTO that enables riders to buy their tickets online through an app. Their trolleys, trains, and buses are wheelchair accessible via ramps and lifts. In addition, public transportation options in San Diego have discounted fares for seniors 65+.

Browse these other transportation options for San Diego citizens:

  • The San Diego Trolley allows people to travel as far north as the VA medical center, as far south as the Mexico border, and everywhere in between.
  • The COASTER train is a great option for people who want to spend a day at the beach, as the train has routes to several popular beach communities, such as Carlsbad and Solana Beach.
  • There are several local buses with a variety of routes.
  • The SPRINTER is the city’s light rail, which offers convenient routes for a small fare.
  • Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner is a popular train for touring around southern California.

San Diego also has transportation options designed with seniors in mind.

  • Happy2Help Transportation helps seniors travel to and from medical and nonmedical appointments for a fee with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
  • Ride FACT is another senior-specific option with low prices. Seniors at least 60 years of age are eligible and must schedule their transportation in advance.

San Diego is a moderately walkable city, although car transportation is still necessary to access most of the city. The scores below are based on San Diego’s accessibility of different transportation methods. The highest and best possible score is 100, meaning that higher numbers indicate a popular and easy-to-use method of getting around San Diego.

53

37

43

Things to do in San Diego for seniors and their families

Endless entertainment awaits seniors in San Diego, California. From lounging on sandy beaches to finding new favorite restaurants and museums, seniors can find something to make each outing a memorable experience.

Live entertainment

Live entertainment, whether via a sporting event or theatrical performance, is a wonderful way to enjoy retirement in San Diego. The San Diego Padres games in Petco Park are just one part of the city’s lively sports scene. View the latest professional football or soccer games at Balboa Stadium, or catch a rugby or lacrosse game at Snapdragon Stadium. San Diego is also home to several performing arts centers — such as The Old Globe or the Civic Theater — where seniors and their families can view shows from local musicians or catch world premiere theatrical productions.

Stunning beaches

Of course, San Diego offers an abundance of popular beaches to choose from, including La Jolla Shores and Cove, located near unique shops and restaurants. Natural beauty, stunning views from the rocky cliffs, and marine life sightings await. Day trips to Coronado Island are also full of possibilities and unique experiences, from lounging on the breathtaking Coronado Beach to sipping coffee in coastal cafés.

Historical attractions

Seniors have many options for exploring local history, many of which have accessibility options for people with disabilities. For example, Balboa Park — San Diego’s 1,200-acre backyard with dozens of museums — offers scooter and wheelchair rentals, though availability is limited. The Comic-Con Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, breathtaking gardens, tropical trails, cafés, and much more are all located in the park. San Diego’s AgeWell Services even hosts a senior lounge and senior lunch at Balboa Park for seniors to socialize and relax.

Many other museums are also accessible, like the USS Midway Museum, which offers wheelchair rentals, tour scripts, and guides. The San Diego History Center is another popular museum about local history and doesn’t have an admission fee. San Diego also has its own Natural History Museum, where seniors can find ever-changing exhibits, weekly events, and a discounted admission fee. Or, seniors can stroll through Old Town San Diego, which is a popular downtown area full of historic landmarks and unique shops.

Frequently asked questions

Monte Vista Village, Silvergate Retirement Residence - Fallbrook and Silvergate Rancho Bernardo are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near San Diego, CA. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in San Diego is 4,552 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

  1. A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): San Diego city [Data set]American Community Survey.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  4. Weather Spark. (2022). Average temperature in San Diego.

  5. U.S. World and News Report. (2022). Best hospitals in San Diego, California.

  6. Walk Score. (2022). Living in San Diego.

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