About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in San Diego, CA

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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 | 1125 Reviews
Showing 122 communities
Last Updated: 3/27/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

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.

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Providers
Types of care available in San Diego, CA
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in San Diego, CA
2.9 / 5.0

Very good services for safe assisted living, with perks not always available elsewhere, for seniors who are ambulatory. We picked this community, because of the proximity to home + 7/24 caregiver & nurse support.

5 / 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...

4.5 / 5.0

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.

Photo of Casa De Manana
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This community is great for me as it is close to the ocean and within walking distance to La Jolla Village. The staff are friendly and helpful. The food is good and they offer a good variety. The community...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Casa de Manana is luxury for less than you might think…..A no entrance fee policy allows you to invest or enjoy your savings. Casa de Manana’s reasonable monthly fee covers meals, housekeeping, linens, home maintenance and all utilities (except telephone and cable TV). There is an on-site health...
Photo of Lilac Chateau II
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
See details
Photo of Lilac Chateau I
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My mother has been in 4 different facilities over the years, she was unhappy in some and kicked out of others. At a couple of places we had to hire a person to look after her on top of paying for her...
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
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Explore Assisted Living in San Diego
Photo of Monterey Trellis
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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: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Monterey Trellis
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Trust and Care Home for Seniors
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Trust and Care Home for Seniors is located in beautiful El Cajon, CA. We are well known and trusted for providing exceptional assisted living care for our residents. We know first hand that leaving your home can sometimes be difficult and we make the transition easy. Our staff is very well...
Photo of Mount Helix Care Home
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Come See How Small is Beautiful FACILITY. STAFF. PROGRAM. Measure us on any one of these criteria and we are confident we will exceed your highest expectations. As professional owner-administrators, we care for physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Our established grounds are perfect for...
Photo of Island Grove Guest Home II
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Photo of New Dawn Senior Care Home
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
New Dawn Senior Care Home is centrally located in a family friendly residential neighborhood in El Cajon, of San Diego County, CA. With only a 14.4sq mile city, the opportunities for shopping, dining out and entertainment are close and plentiful for the seniors. These opportunities include...
Photo of Easy Living @Torrey Del Mar
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Easy Living attorney Del Mar Easy Living at Torrey Del Mar is a residential care home located in San Diego, CA in San Diego County. The metropolitan area offers beautiful coastal beaches and easy access to limitless entertainment and recreation options. These amenities combine to make Easy Living...
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Photo of Poway Residential Care, LLC
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Photo of Autumn Senior Living-SOLD
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Coronado Royale is located across from Tidelands Park and the Colorado Bridge. The facility offers beautiful views of both the San Diego Bay and the lights of downtown San Diego. The Coronado Royale is also located right next door to the Coronado Hospital and Medical Centers. The Coronado...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
See details
Photo of BayView Senior Assisted Living
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We have been very pleased with this community since my father moved in. We were initially drawn in by the fact that it does not feel like a normal institution or senior living community. It is almost like a...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Bay View Senior Accommodations is located in the sunny San Diego, California. As an assisted living facility, each and every resident is our top priority. Whether it's you, your spouse, or a parent, our facility is oriented by two things that we believe the quality of life is determined by; the...
Photo of Racquels Rose Garden
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
When it comes to the golden years and making plans for senior living, there can be a few challenges to deal with. We may not always have access to the resources we need to provide the best for our loved ones. As we look at the choices available to us, we need to be certain that our parents have...
Photo of Fleetridge Estates
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
When special care is needed, the elegance and comfort of a private home, and yes, even the fun and companionship of charming friends can be retained, When the home is in Point Loma and there are only six residents, the best of both worlds can be achieved. The focus is on each resident enjoying...
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Gate Manor offers resort-like homes in a country setting, with lush green landscapes and scenic mountains. We are located in the heart of Poway, near Scripps Ranch. Gate Manor ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and affordable home-like environment for our clients. Built for privacy and the...
Photo of Gate Manor Poway
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Photo of Archangel's Residential Care
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Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Archangel's Residential Care is a residential care home located in beautiful San Diego, California, in San Diego County. Our charming community is located a short drive from the stunning San Diego Bay, local parks, shopping, and more. Our residents and their guests are never short on options of...
See details
Photo of Glen At Scripps Ranch Ccrc
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Ohana Home Care
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Carecenter at Home for Elderly
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We are pretty happy with them so far. It's neat and clean, and the staff are very attentive. I like that it's small with only about a half a dozen residents total, and I like the location as well, it makes...
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
The Carecenter at Home for Elderly is an assisted living home for those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease. This professional facility in San Diego, CA offers residents a safe home setting which can make them more at ease than in a hospital or traditional nursing home. Carecenter strives to make...

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

Average monthly costs

San Diego, CA

$4,556

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:

Caregiver Resources
Can You Use Your HSA for Long-Term Care Costs?
By Celia Searles
Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
VA benefits for assisted living in San Diego
0

Approximate number of veterans aged 65+ living in San Diego as of 2021

Percentage of veterans in San Diego who are over the age of 65

Senior veterans in San Diego have access to a variety of resources that can help cover the costs of assisted living. California’s veteran services program, called CalVet, offers a Veterans Benefit Enhancement Program (VBE). Through this program, seniors are guided through the process of switching from Medi-Cal — California’s Medicaid program — to VA health care. VBE offers some benefits that Medi-Cal doesn’t. This includes mailed prescriptions, specialized care, and coverage outside of California.

Veterans may be eligible for other benefits. The most generous is the Aid and Attendance benefit, which can be added to an existing VA pension. Seniors who qualify can use these funds to pay for anything that increases their quality of life, which includes the cost of assisted living.

In many cases, seniors and their families may not realize that they’re eligible for benefits. The application process can be confusing and lengthy, so it’s best to work with a benefits counselor. They can provide advocacy, resources, and help with an appeal if necessary. Veterans services organizations (VSOs) are a wonderful resource since they’ve been vetted by the Department of Veterans Affairs. San Diego veterans can work with the VA Regional Benefit Office or the San Diego County Office of Military and Veterans Affairs. Local VSOs include the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the American Legion.

Resources for San Diego veterans

State veterans services

San Diego VA Regional Benefit Office

8810 Rio San Diego Drive
San Diego, CA 92108

Phone: 800-827-1000

San Diego County Office of Military and Veterans Affairs (OMVA) Headquarters

5055 Ruffin Road
San Diego, CA 92123

Phone: 1-866-726-8831

Veterans Resource Center

San Diego Central Library, Room 316
330 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: 619-236-5800

Nonprofit VSOs

VFW San Diego Regional Office

8810 Rio San Diego Drive, #1122
San Diego, CA 92108

Phone: 619-400-5322

Email: scott.Mckee1@va.gov

Disabled American Veterans

2123 Fenton Pkwy
San Diego, CA 91977

Phone: 619-337-9258

Meetings: First Monday at 6 p.m.

American Legion Post 460

7815 Armour St.
San Diego, CA 92111

Phone: 858-277-1052

Email: post460@sbcglobal.net

Meetings: Fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m.

San Diego Medi-Cal for assisted living

California’s Medicaid program is called Medi-Cal, and it serves people of low-income status by paying for health care services such as medical appointments, rehabilitation, and hospital stays.

Medi-Cal eligible seniors in San Diego may use the Assisted Living Waiver — a waiver designed to help seniors access care in an assisted living facility instead of in institutions such as nursing facilities or hospitals. However, Medi-Cal only covers the cost of care services and doesn’t cover the costs of room and board in assisted living.

Covered California is the health care portal specifically for California residents that offers Medi-Cal as well as affordable full coverage health care plans to low-income residents. The Covered California application is the same as the Medi-Cal application, so when you apply through their web portal you will also see if you qualify for Medi-Cal. Covered California and Medi-Cal work in tandem to give low-income residents access to full essential health care benefits through one easy-to-use web portal.

San Diego resident Medicaid resources

Find a Medicaid office in San Diego

Apply for Medi-Cal through San Diego County

Health and Human Services Agency
1600 Pacific Highway, Room 206
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: 619-515-6555

Apply through Covered California

1879 Logan Ave., Suite J
San Diego, CA 92113

Phone: 800-300-1506

San Diego Aging and Independence Services

County Operations Center
5560 Overland Avenue, Third floor
San Diego, CA 92123

Phone: 800-339-4661

San Diego Long-Term Care Ombudsman

5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193

Phone: 800-640-4661

San Diego Medicare for assisted living

Medicare is a federal program for seniors at least 65 years old that helps cover medical expenses. While Medicare doesn’t cover room and board in assisted living, it may cover some related medical care costs. Seniors already enrolled in Medicare may be eligible for Medicare Savings Programs that may cover part of a senior’s Medicare premium. Low-income requirements must be met in order to be eligible for Medicare Savings Programs in California.

There are four different Medicare Savings Programs in California, each of which may cover some of Medicare Part A, B, C, or a combination of parts. Seniors can apply for Medicare Savings Programs online and see which program best fits their needs.

For benefits assistance, seniors can find Medicare Counseling (HICAP) at San Diego’s Aging and Independence Services office. The long-term care ombudsman can also provide Medicare counseling and resources. Seniors can also reach out to San Diego’s Social Security office.

California offers a pharmaceutical savings program for low-income seniors with Medicare who are HIV positive or have AIDS. This program is offered by the California Department of Public Health Office of AIDS. It helps eligible seniors with Medicare Part D premiums.

San Diego resident Medicare resources

Social Security Administration (SSA)

Social Security Administration

1333 Front St.
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: 800-772-1213

Senior Medicare Advocacy

San Diego Aging and Independence Services

Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193

Phone: 800-434-0222

San Diego Long-Term Care Ombudsman

5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193

Phone: 800-640-4661

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:[03]

  • 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:[03]

  • 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.[03]

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.

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

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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

26Number 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.

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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+

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.[01]

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.[07]

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53

Walk Score

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37

Transit Score

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43

Bike Score

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 Rancho Bernardo and Cypress Court 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 4555.7 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  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. State of California Health and Human Services Agency. Department of Social Services. (2008). Manual of Policies and Procedures Community Care Licensing Division: Residential care facilities for the elderly (RCFE), Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8.

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

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

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

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

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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.
4.

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

5.

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

6.

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

7.

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