A Place for Mom
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Independent Living
Senior Living
Sign in
33 Independent Living Facilities near El Cajon, CA

Who are you searching for?

Parent
Spouse
Someone else
Myself
A Place for Mom
Who are you searching for?

10 Best Independent Living Communities in El Cajon, CA

Last Updated: 9/30/24

If you’re looking for independent living in the El Cajon area, our local senior living advisors can help you each step of the way. From affordable independent living for seniors to luxury options, we’ll work with you to understand the cost of independent living in El Cajon. From there, we’ll show you the best independent living communities for your lifestyle, interests, and budget.

Discover unique independent living amenities, social activities, dining, and more independent living benefits. With 33 independent living facilities in El Cajon, A Place for Mom makes it easier to find your new, maintenance-free home.

We are also serving Independent Living facilities in surrounding neighborhoods like Rancho San Diego.
You may also consider nearby communities such as San Diego, Chula Vista or Bostonia.

El Cajon Independent Living Facilities | 697 Reviews

Showing 33 communities
Last Updated: 9/30/24
Sort by
Filter by
Awards
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 Independent Living in El Cajon, CA is $4,582/month. Learn more
Review Score
Distance
See communities with
Amenities
Providers
View all providers

Types of care available in El Cajon, CA

Independent Living

Average starting price $4,582/month
Average starting price $4,535/month
Average starting price $5,747/month
Average starting price $5,765/month
Average starting price $3,211/month
Average starting price $1,686/month
Recent reviews of Independent Living in El Cajon, 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.

Novellus Clairemont in San Diego, CA
4.0

My loved one has recently made the move into this community and so far I have no complaints of how things had been going for him. He has had a few health problems but other than that the experience has been pleasant for him. The staff have done a great job at staying organized in his care plan and are always attentive to his needs. I would defiantly recommend this place to anyone interested.

Paradise Village in National City, CA
4.8

The staff at Paradise Village are very responsive and helpful when needed. I would highly recommend this facility to others looking.

Solstice Senior Living at El Cajon

444 Prescott Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
Photo of Solstice Senior Living at El Cajon
9
9 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available
9.8
Review Score
93 reviews

My mom had to move because she needed more active people - there were more residents who had more needs than my mom who is still active. The staff was terrific, they seem to genuinely care. Also, the food...

Provides: Independent Living
See all Integral Senior Living Management Group communities

Solstice Senior Living at El Cajon is a warm, welcoming, vibrant, engaging independent Senior Living Community in the heart of the city. Enjoy adventure, entertainment and the beautiful outdoors. Family and friends find comfort with our on-site personal care professionals. We are close to...

... Read more

Monte Vista Village

2211 Massachusetts Avenue, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
24
24 Photos available
8
8 Floor plans available
9.9
Review Score
81 reviews

[name removed] and [name removed]are fabulous and consistently maintain the facilities and mom's house. [name removed] is always available for maintenance and repairs and is super helpful with any request we...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted 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

Atria Collwood

5308 Monroe Avenue, San Diego, CA 92115

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
5
5 Floor plans available
9.7
Review Score
102 reviews

Our family is so happy we found this very special place for Mama in the heart of San Diego at Atria, Collwood. We would have to say the greatest treasure at Atria is their loving and supportive staff, from...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted 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

The Montera

5740 Lake Murray Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
19
19 Photos available
9
9 Floor plans available
9.6
Review Score
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...

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

Grossmont Gardens

5480 Marengo Ave, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
18
18 Photos available
9.3
Review Score
140 reviews

The quality of food is very poor. It's on older facility so sometimes the residents don't have hot water (this has happened twice since February- one time it lasted 10 days). The grounds are nice...lots of...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted 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

Sungarden Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care

2045 Skyline Drive, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
8
8 Photos available
9.0
Review Score
38 reviews

This place is well kept and has the friendliest staff! My husband’s grandma has lived here for over a decade and she’s well cared for and participates in the community. We enjoy the events and the food with...

Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
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

Westmont at San Miguel Ranch

2325 Proctor Valley Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91914

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
6
6 Floor plans available
9.0
Review Score
28 reviews

I can't say enough great things about this facility, from all the staff, activities and the facility itself. I have a peace of mind knowing my friend is being taken care of and is comfortable and well cared...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Westmont Living communities

Westmont at San Miguel Ranch is a beautiful, scenic assisted living center located in beautiful Chula Vista, San Diego County, California. Nestled along the coast of Southern California, seniors can enjoy picturesque views of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean. Offering a small-town feel in a large...

... Read more

Waterford Terrace Retirement Community

5580 Aztec Drive, La Mesa, CA 91942

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
18
18 Photos available
1
1 Floor plans available
8.8
Review Score
31 reviews

When it comes to the cleanliness, the laundry rooms need a lot of help but everything else is very clean). For the activities they could do more arts and crafts or activities besides bingo and going to the...

Provides: Independent Living
See all Sunshine Retirement Living LLC communities

We believe that Waterford Terrace is so much more than walls and windows - it's a place to enjoy home-cooked meals, game night, or a quiet evening with family and friends. It's where you always feel comfortable, safe, and secure. At Waterford Terrace, our management teams live on-site, and are...

... Read more

Lantern Crest Senior Living

800 Lantern Crest Way, Santee, CA 92071

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
8.7
Review Score
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...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

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

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
8.7
Review Score
15 reviews

A few months ago I asked a friend when she decided the time was right to enter into Senior Living. Her response gave me food for thought. She said whatever you do have a plan. If tomorrow you can not care...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Westmont Living communities

Our free advisors can help

    • Compare local facilities
    • Determine care type
    • Schedule tours
    • Evaluate pricing

Lo Har Senior Living

768 Dorothy Dr, El Cajon, CA 92019

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
11 reviews

Lo Har Senior Living has been good so far with their services and staff. My mother has been engaging in a couple of the activities that they offer. The community and her room seem to be getting good...

Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Pinnacle Senior Living communities

We are licensed as an Assisted Living facility for seniors with Alzheimer's or a related dementia. We are Private pay only.

La Vida Real

11588 Via Rancho San Diego, El Cajon, CA 92019

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
7.0
Review Score
8 reviews

It is great but it is expensive! What I like, and I believe my Mom likes too, is the events they plan, particularly the exercise classes. She has definitely found community within the area of exercise. They...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Senior Resource Group communities

At La Vida Real, we surround our residents with an engaging blend of comfort, style, fine dining, endless social opportunities, and an impressive array of recreational and wellness programs. Here, you’ll discover a service-enriched retirement lifestyle specially designed to meet your unique needs...

... Read more

Cloisters of the Valley

4171 Camino Del Rio S, San Diego, CA 92108

5
5 Photos available
14 reviews

I had good stay. They took good care of me while I healed up. The facility is beautiful and well maintained. Staff is courteous and responsive. Now I am able to return to work.

Provides: Assisted Living
See all Bayshire, LLC communities

Cloisters of the Valley offers complete residential senior care in a private, caring environment. If you are looking into an assisted living facility for your loved one, you will want to make sure you are getting the best medical care in the most home-like environment possible. Please stop by to...

... Read more

Lexington Senior Apt

250 E Lexington Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020

Provides: Senior Apartments

Lexington Senior Apt

250 E Lexington Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020

Provides: Senior Apartments

Casa El Cajon

306 Shady Ln, El Cajon, CA 92021

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Judy Jones Assisted Living

743 Hacienda Dr, El Cajon, CA 92020

Provides: Assisted Living

Peppertree Guest Home

8950 Johnson Dr, La Mesa, CA 91941

1 review

I am overly pleased with the care my mother has been receiving at this home. I knew I loved it as soon as I walked into the kitchen and there was an overwhelming smell of a delicious home cooked meal. I also...

Provides: Assisted Living

San Carlos Village Apartments

7717 Tommy Dr, San Diego, CA 92119

Provides: Independent Living

Good Samaritan

1515 Jamacha Way, El Cajon, CA 92019

1 review

My father in law has been well cared for. The staff, including the nuns seem very friendly. His room is more than adequate size and is completely furnished.

Provides: Assisted Living

MesaView Senior Assisted Living

7971 Culowee St, La Mesa, CA 91942

9 reviews

Two relatives have lived there for a length of time (at different times). They were both happy there. One played the piano for residents. The main building is an older home, kept up well. Residents can feel...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Our speciality is providing quality care at resonable rates. Villa La Mesa offers modest, homelike accommodations nestled in a very quiet residential area of 'Old' La Mesa. With a total licensed capacity of twenty-nine (29) residents, Villa La Mesa is small enough to offers a warm, homelike...

... Read more

Sunshine Care Home

11812 Lakeside Ave, Lakeside, CA 92040

Provides: Assisted Living

Monterey Trellis

8914 Troy St, Spring Valley, CA 91977

1 review

This is a nice looking, smaller community. We had no complaints about this place in general, it was clean, and everyone was friendly. However, the area it is located in wasn't very good for my Uncle. He...

Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Monterey Trellis

8914 Troy Street, Spring Valley, CA 91977

Provides: Assisted Living

Monterey Trellis

8914 Troy Street, Spring Valley, CA 91977

Provides: Assisted Living
Viewing 1-25 out of 33 communities

Cost of independent living in El Cajon, CA

The average cost of senior living in El Cajon is 4,582 per month. Cheaper nearby regions include Temecula, CA with an average of 3,306 per month.

Monthly average independent living cost comparisons
Care type:
Your actual costs may be higher or lower than the average.
Get advice from a local expert:

Discover the many ways to pay for senior living

Planning ahead can better position you to make good choices for your loved one’s care in the future. But if your aging family member needs care now, there are ways to finance the cost of long-term care through a combination of approaches.

Related senior services in El Cajon, California

Financial assistance

Transportation

Health care

Senior activities

In El Cajon, California, seniors have access to local offices and organizations that may help them obtain financial assistance for senior care, including:

Financial assistance

In El Cajon, California, seniors have access to local offices and organizations that may help them obtain financial assistance for senior care, including:

Transportation

El Cajon is somewhat car dependent. Seniors can expect to need a car for most errands. Transit options in El Cajon include bus routes, light rail service, senior transportation, and a public paratransit service. Seniors may receive fare discounts. El Cajon has a limited biking infrastructure and is somewhat walkable.

Health care

El Cajon offers several health care providers for seniors wanting to be proactive about their health or for seniors seeking treatment for chronic conditions. The area has a few hospitals, including Grossmont Hospital and Alvarado Hospital Medical Center.

Senior activities

El Cajon, which means “the box,” got its name from the box-shaped valley surrounding this California city. Nature-loving seniors will enjoy visiting The Water Conservation Garden, which displays a variety of gardens across their six acres and also features a butterfly pavilion. Summers Past Farms offers another outdoor oasis where seniors can visit and hosts antique fairs during the year. The City of El Cajon Parks and Rec Department offers senior specific classes year round including water aerobics and dance.

What is independent living?

Independent living offers a stress-free lifestyle for older adults. Independent living communities don’t provide personal care or supervision, but do offer generally healthy adults opportunities for socialization and hassle-free living. Independent living services often include:

  • Nutritious meals and snacks
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Home maintenance and repairs
  • Social activities and outings
Complete guide to independent living

El Cajon, California

Independent Living

If you would benefit from the peace of mind of having your chores managed by professionalls while living life at your own pace, you might consider the option of an Independent Living Community. Frequent needs such as meal planning and the scheduling of social activities are taken care of, which provides seniors more opportunities to live life as they wish. Along with their daily needs being met, residents can enjoy the opportunity to live among peers, surrounded by others of similar age groups and interests. Within the individual units, residents have access to a private living space and a full kitchen, and can even live with a partner if they choose. While policies vary between communities, a number of residences allow pets as well. If medical or nursing care is desired, residents may always enlist the services of independent care providers. There are an assortment of advantages and expenditures to keep in mind while selecting an independent living community. It is important to learn if these services are included in your care plan: housekeeping, internet access, move-in fee, Waiting list deposit, private phone, meals, wellness program, and transportation. The benefits associated with independent living include community activities, laundry service, transportation, game/TV room, healthcare center, security guards, beauty salon & barber shop, and private rental hall.

Cost of Living

Cost of living can be a major factor when deciding which care choice is the best fit for you or your loved one. The rent burden for El Cajon is around 22.7% of the average person’s monthly income. Monthly, the median price of rent in El Cajon is $1,565 per month and the median home value in El Cajon costs around $389,263.

Demographics and Values

Out of the total city population, 49.3% are female and 50.7% are male. The median age of El Cajon is 34 years old. In El Cajon, 11.4% do not have health insurance, 23.0% live in poverty, 63.2% participate in the labor force, and 6.0% are widowed. The current population of El Cajon consists of 103,894 people. El Cajon has a population density of 2,769 people per square mile. Racially, the population of El Cajon is 9.9% other or not specified, 5.7% black, 0.8% Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 6.9% mixed race, 72.8% white, 29.2% Hispanic, 0.5% Native American, and 3.4% Asian. Of the population of El Cajon 19.1% have a college degree, 28.9% have a high-school diploma, and 5.7% have a graduate degree. In El Cajon, 9.1% of the citizens are veterans of the United States armed forces.

State Information

An overview of California

The natural beauty of California is ranked 5th in the nation. Out of a national average of 100, California has a cost of living index rating of 139, a grocery index rating of 121, and a housing index rating of 227. The quality of life enjoyed by the average California citizen is ranked 19th nation-wide. Additionally, California is ranked 7th by standards of healthcare. There are 391 general hospitals and 1,108 health centers that provide care for 39,715,372 California residents. The three highest ranked hospitals in California are Mills-peninsula Medical Center, Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, and And Santa Monica’s UCLA Medical Center and Orthopedic Hospital.

Social demographics of the state

During the latest presidential election, 32% voted for the Republican candidate while 62% voted for the Democratic candidate. In California, 26% of the population is over the age of 55. The median age in the state is 37. The state of California ranks 1st in the country for diversity and the state is considered very LGBTQ friendly. In terms of religious values, 31% of California’s population regularly attend some form of service and there are in total 23,558 different congregations. The top three Christian denominations in the state are Evangelical Protestant-20%, Mainline Protestant-10%, and Historically Black Protestant-2%. The top three non-Christian denominations in the state are Jewish-2%, Buddhist-2%, and Hindu-2%. In California there are 395 masonic lodges.

State-wide weather information

During the summer, the average temperature in California is around 71F. The average high summer temperature is around 116F in the month of July. The average low summer temperature is around 34F in the month of June. The average temperature in the winter falls to around 47F. The average high winter temperature is around 76F in the month of February. In the winter months, the average low temperature falls to around 8F during the month of January. The average humidity across the state is 61%. The highest monthly average humidity rating is 81% in the month of July. The average air quality index rating in California is 57.1 AQI. The highest seasonal air quality index rating occurs in the month of August with a rating of 83.0 AQI. The average amount of precipitation peaks during the month of December at around 16.26 inches. The average monthly precipitation for the state of California is around 2.04 inches. While residents of California mostly enjoy pleasant conditions, it’s important to be aware of inclement weather as well, which in California can include earthquakes (high), floods, and and tornadoes.

Wildlife to be found in California

The state of California has a diverse array of plant and animal life. Local plant life can consist of jojoba, redwood, California fan palm, and California poppy. While venturing throughout the state, you might see animals such as the black bears, the cougars, the coyotes, or the whales. The state animal of California is the California grizzly bear.

Frequently asked questions

Silvergate Retirement Residence - Fallbrook, Paradise Village and Cypress Court are the top-rated independent living facilities near El Cajon, California. See full list of communities.

There are 33 independent living facilities near El Cajon, California. See the full list.

The best independent living facilities near you in El Cajon, California are Solstice Senior Living at El Cajon, Monte Vista Village, and The Montera. These independent living communities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews.

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.