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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in San Diego, CA for 2024

With 12.6% of San Diego residents being seniors. The coastal location and California climate make San Diego a great choice for older adults looking for assisted living. The average cost of assisted living in San Diego is $5,475 per month. This is slightly above average for assisted living in California as a whole, with the state average being $5,250 per month.

San Diego assisted living communities provide support for seniors who struggle with the activities of daily living but are otherwise healthy. They offer an option for older adults who don’t require nursing home levels of care but could benefit from help with household chores or tasks such as bathing or dressing. 

This guide contains costs, reviews, photos, & more of assisted living and other types of senior care in San Diego. It also discusses the benefits and downsides of living in the city as a senior and lists some free support and resources available to local older adults.

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Assisted Living Facilities in San Diego, California

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What To Consider About Assisted Living in San Diego

Assisted living facilities in San Diego are regulated by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. This division oversees senior care services and sets out the rules and regulations facilities must abide by. These rules cover staffing, health and safety, medication administration and other issues to ensure the well-being of all residents.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in San Diego

  • The cost of living in San Diego is much higher than in other parts of California, which is itself more expensive than the U.S. average. However, many seniors feel the convenience of living in a scenic coastal area with a wealth of amenities makes the extra cost worthwhile.
  • The air quality in San Diego is rated as good. This may be important to seniors who have chronic respiratory conditions and want to retire somewhere that has lower pollution levels than many U.S. cities.
  • San Diego’s tap water is soft, and the safety of the drinking water is monitored regularly to ensure it meets EPA standards. Seniors who have skin conditions irritated by hard water may find the tap water in San Diego gentle on their skin when bathing or showering.
  • Both violent and property crime rates in the city are lower than the national average. Assisted living communities are usually monitored and staffed 24 hours a day for added peace of mind, and the low crime rates in the city mean seniors can feel safe and confident when out socializing or running errands.
  • The coastal location of the city means residents can take advantage of a generally pleasant climate and a variety of outdoor activities. San Diego attracts a lot of tourists, so entertainment options are abundant.
  • Social Security retirement benefits in California are untaxed, but other forms of retirement income are subject to taxation, and the state has some of the country’s highest sales tax rates. This mixed tax policy means seniors need to plan their finances carefully if they’re considering retiring to San Diego.

Paying for Assisted Living in San Diego, CA

When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of more than 75,000 senior living providers to provide insight into the average cost of assisted living in San Diego and 200 other cities in California.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in San Diego, CA

Assisted living costs in San Diego have seen a steady increase, largely as a result of inflation. A difference of roughly 9% can be seen from 2022 to 2023 ($4,088 to $4,479), with costs projected to rise even further to $4,824 by 2024. However, rates in San Diego have remained quite consistent with the U.S. national average ($4,070 to $4,459). San Diego remains an affordable option for southern Californians in need of senior care. Rates are nearly $1,000 lower than those in Bakersfield and over $1,600 less expensive than costs in Los Angeles.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
San Diego$4,088$4,479$4,824
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459 $4,802
California$4,625$4,946$5,221
Los Angeles$5,621$6,158$6,632
Riverside$4,814$5,274$5,680
Bakersfield$4,968$5,443$5,862

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

San Diego’s assisted living communities charge fees that are slightly higher than the state average of $5,250, but they’re far from the most expensive. In nearby Los Angeles, assisted living costs are in line with the average. Further north, fees are much more expensive, with seniors in Salinas paying $6,000 per month and those in Napa paying $6,300. Redding, being located further inland, is one of the cheapest cities in the state, with average fees of just $4,450.

San Diego

$5,475

California

$5,250

The United States

$4,500

Los Angeles

$5,250

Salinas

$6,000

Napa

$6,300

Redding

$4,450

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior living in San Diego can vary greatly depending on the type of care. Independent living typically sees the lowest costs at $3,679, as it caters to individuals who are largely self-sufficient. Compared to assisted living ($4,479), memory care costs are approximately 43% higher, averaging $6,951 per month. These differences are largely the result of memory care communities providing a wider scope of care and specialized programming.

Assisted Living

$4,479

Memory Care

$6,951

Independent Living

$3,679

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in San Diego

Eligible seniors may receive help paying for assisted living through California’s Assisted Living Waiver Program. Financial aid is also available to those with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through California’s Optional State Supplement (OSS) program. 

Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in California page.

Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in California

More Ways to Pay for Assisted Living

While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:

  • Veterans Benefits
  • Life Insurance Policy
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgage

For more information about different ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in California page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in San Diego,CA

There are many resources in San Diego,CA that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.

For information about statewide resources and those in nearby cities, go to Caring’s California state page.

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging & Independence Services800-339-4661California's network of Area Agencies on Aging work under the umbrella of the California Department of Aging. These agencies promote healthy living for older residents through a variety of federal and state-funded programs. Some of these programs include supportive services, senior nutrition programs, care management programs, caregiving services and Medicare and insurance counseling. Low-income seniors can become productive community members through volunteer programs, such as the Senior Companion Program and the Senior Community Service Employment Program.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

San Diego seniors wishing to remain in their own homes can find financial assistance from several local resources. These programs and organizations help retirees cover the cost of services such as home care, property modifications and utilities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Casa Pacifica ADHC Center619-424-8181Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
Loving Care ADHC619-718-9777Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
San Diego Family Circle ADHC858-244-4555Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
Neighborhood House ADHC Center619-233-6691Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
In-Home Supportive Services Program (IHSS) - San Diego800-339-4661The In-Home Supportive Services Program covers the cost of home-based services that can help eligible participants avoid having to move out of their homes. Covered services include meal preparation, house cleaning, personal care and grocery shopping.

Cash Assistance Programs

Cash assistance programs in San Diego provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
General Relief - San Diego866-262-9881San Diego's General Relief Cash Assistance Program is funded by the county and provides emergency cash loans to eligible seniors. Although primarily targeted toward seniors up to the age of 64, older seniors burdened by no or low incomes and few material resources may also be considered. Applicants can apply online at BenefitsCal or in person at San Diego Family Resource Centers in multiple convenient locations. Qualification requires proof of local residency and lack of access to funds or support.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help San Diego seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Chollas View United Methodist Church Food Distribution619-264-0169Chollas View United Methodist Church, located in San Diego, CA, operates a food distribution program every Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon. In-need community members of all ages can get a range of ingredients to prepare meals at home to alleviate hardship and hunger. Devout seniors can also attend worship each Sunday at 11 a.m.
Ocean Beach Emergency Food, Inc.Ocean Beach Emergency Food, Inc., also known as Loaves & Fishes, is an emergency food bank serving Ocean Beach and the Peninsula area. To qualify, seniors must reside in the 92106, 92107 or 92110 areas and be in need of food. The emergency food bags provided contain peanut butter, beans, canned fruits and vegetables, bread, rice and pasta, soup and other shelf-stable items. The organization can also assist with toiletries and hygiene products as needed based on available supplies.
Meals on Wheels - San Diego County619-260-6110Meals on Wheels combats hunger and isolation by delivering nutritious meals to seniors throughout California. Local branches of the organization decide how many and at what times meals will be delivered each week.
San Diego Hunger Coalition858-452-3663The San Diego Hunger Coalition coordinates hunger-relief efforts across San Diego County and helps direct residents to the food banks and distribution centers that serve their areas. The SDHC helps direct seniors to congregate meal sites or set them up with a home-delivered meal program. The organization also assists low-income families and individuals in signing up for CalFresh grocery assistance and the federal WIC program.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to San Diego seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program - San Diego858-640-4661San Diego's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides direct support for seniors living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and similar shared communities. Ombudsmen help ensure seniors are aware of their legal rights. They may advocate on behalf of such seniors when they inquire about quality of care or billing and benefits issues. The program also assists with transferring into or out of communities, financial or physical abuse by caregivers, and proper nutrition along with similar elder concerns.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in San Diego help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging & Independence Services Volunteer Programs858-505-6399Aging & Independence Services Volunteer Programs offers two volunteer programs for seniors. Older adults aged 55 and up can join The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program run by AmeriCorps, while seniors aged 50 and older can join The Senior Volunteers in Action. Seniors will get a chance to work in museums, law enforcement and senior centers.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in San Diego help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
San Diego Social Security Offices800-772-1213Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. San Diego retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - San Diego866-675-6623The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps eligible households balance their utility bills, while the LIHEAP Energy Crisis Prevention Program provides financial assistance to low-income households facing energy-related crises. For example, the ECPP may offer assistance to a homeowner who's in danger of having their power shut off.

Veteran's Services

San Diego retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center858-552-8585The Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides primary and specialty health services for veterans in San Diego. Mental health care, pain management, women's health services, rehabilitation and integrative health are some of the center's many health care offerings. The center employs a philosophy of whole health and patient-centered care that ensures each veteran has comprehensive support.
San Diego Vet Center858-642-1500The San Diego Vet Center, located in San Diego, California, is a valuable resource for veterans seeking mental health support and assistance. The center specializes in mental health counseling, providing individual and group therapy to help address issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and grief. With a focus on improving veterans' well-being, San Diego Vet Center is a pillar of support for those who have bravely served their country.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in San Diego

San Diego Assisted Living Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Assisted Living Facilities in California are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in California page for more information about these laws.


Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in California

Reviews of Communities Nearby

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Aj7654

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill

The most important factor to me in finding a place for my elderly friend was the staff. I don’t care how beautiful a place is or how great a view the apartments have if the staff are not caring...

Provider response

Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a review! We greatly appreciate your feedback. We are grateful for your comments for our team members and have made sure to share them with the...

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Assisted Living

Robin

I visited this facility

Review of Gold Canyon Care Home

What I liked best about Gold Canyon Care Home was that it seemed like a very cozy home. It had great gym equipment, especially the recumbent stair stepper, which would be ideal for my mother. That...

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Assisted Living

Diana

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of The Remington Club

My mom was at The Remington Club. I think she needed way too much care for what they offered. They couldn't take care of you if you needed oxygen, and she needed oxygen. So, that was the problem....

Provider response

Diana, I am the new Executive Director and want to thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. When she was here it was nice to see that your mom liked her apartment, loved having her...

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Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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