Assisted Living in Santa Cruz, CA

Last updated March 01, 2025

Santa Cruz offers a diverse range of 20 Assisted Living communities giving families varied options to choose from. The average cost of assisted living living in the Santa Cruz area is $3,750, and the communities in the Santa Cruz area have a average rating of 9.9 out of 10. Seniorly also uses Seniorly Price Estimate for cost comparisons with nearby cities, and even highlights new construction facilities for those seeking modern amenities. Families can look at 66 photos, 740 ratings and reviews, and 14 prices in the Santa Cruz area to get a sense of assisted living in the area. Not to be confused with nursing homes, which offer medical care, assisted living provides daily help with activities of daily living like dressing or bathing. And with services catering to all care levels, many facilities enable residents to age in place, whether it's a 1 bedroom or 2 bedroom option. For personalized assistance, Seniorly local advisors Lauren Ross are available to help with your search.

The 20 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Santa Cruz, CA

20 communities near Santa Cruz, CA

Verified

Sunshine Villa - A Merrill Gardens Community

80 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assisted Living , Memory Care

Sunshine Villa, A Merrill Gardens Community, stands as a beacon of warmth and care, nestled in a vibrant neighborhood known for its inviting atmosphere and scenic views. The community is ideally positioned within walking distance of the Santa Cruz Wharf, beach, and boardwalk, offering residents the chance to enjoy the coastal beauty and engaging local attractions. The charming building, with its r...

From $4,600/mo

9.9

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Verified

Dominican Oaks

3400 Paul Sweet Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Assisted Living

"I moved to Dominican Oaks six years ago, and I can say with all honesty that it was a great decision. The staff are incredibly caring and welcoming, the other residents are friendly and compasionate, the food is really good and there's always something fun going on. It's got some lovely outdoor areas and I am actually finding it much more social than I originally thought it would be. " - David

From $4,890/mo

9.5

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Verified

Westwind Memory Care

160 Jewell Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assisted Living , Memory Care

Westwind Memory Care stands as a beacon of compassionate senior living, nestled in a vibrant neighborhood that offers a harmonious blend of serene living and accessible amenities. This large community is designed to provide exceptional care and medical services, ensuring that residents receive the attention and support they need to thrive. With a focus on personalized care, Westwind Memory Care of...

From $5,750/mo

9.3

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Verified

Aegis Living Aptos

125 Heather Terrace, Aptos, CA 95003

Assisted Living , Memory Care

"I have been very impressed with Aegis Aptos memory care unit. While my dad has lots of ups and downs, he seems more balanced since he moved there. This diagnosis has been a rough journey for the whole family, but I am seriously grateful for the people who work there - not only do they take great care of my dad but they are such a support for the rest of the family too. " - Louise

From $6,030/mo

9.9

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Wondering if home care might be a better fit?

Sometimes staying at home with personalized care can be the better choice. Compare home care and assisted living options to see what fits your needs.

Verified

Brookdale Scotts Valley

100 Lockewood Lane , Scotts Valley, CA 95066

Assisted Living

Brookdale Scotts Valley is a vibrant senior living community that offers a comprehensive range of care and medical services. Residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the dedicated staff is available 24/7 to address emergencies and provide assistance with activities of daily living. The community offers personalized care, including medication management and coordination with healthcare provid...

From $4,015/mo

9.8

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New Development

Westmont of Santa Cruz

5630 Soquel Drive, Soquel, CA 95073

Assisted Living , Memory Care , Independent Living

Westmont® of Santa Cruz offers a welcoming environment where residents can feel supported, connected, and truly at home. Through thoughtfully curated services, enriching programs, and personalized care, residents are encouraged to maintain their independence while enjoying a vibrant lifestyle. Families often praise the community’s warm atmosphere and dedicated team, noting the exceptional comfo...

From $5,500/mo

8.9

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Paradise Assisted Care Corp

2177 17Th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living

Nestled along the picturesque Santa Cruz coastline, Paradise Villa offers a welcoming environment for seniors seeking a vibrant and fulfilling community life. With a strong emphasis on care and medical services, this senior living community ensures that residents receive the support and attention they deserve. The dedicated team at Paradise Villa provides a comprehensive range of health care servi...

From $3,800/mo

8.4

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Valley Haven III

2266 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living , Memory Care

Valley Haven III offers a welcoming and supportive environment for seniors, focusing on exceptional care and medical services. Located at 2266 Chanticleer Avenue, this medium-sized community provides an array of health care services, including a 24-hour call system, supervision, assistance with bathing, dressing, and transfers, as well as medication management. Additionally, the community is well-...

From $3,500/mo

8.6

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Understand your care options

With a personalized Care Plan, you’ll get clear guidance on care options and resources so you can find the right support.

Maple House Ii

2000 Brommer Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living

Nestled in the heart of California, Maple House II stands as a beacon of comfort and care for its residents. This medium-sized senior living community is thoughtfully designed to provide a nurturing environment with a focus on comprehensive care and medical services. Residents benefit from a robust array of healthcare services, including a 24-hour call system, supervision, and assistance with dail...

From $3,850/mo

7.3

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Twin Lakes Manor

777 Volz Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home

Twin Lakes Manor, a small and welcoming community located in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California, offers a variety of care and medical services to cater to the diverse needs of its residents. The property's services include assisted living and board and care home, making it an ideal choice for seniors who require additional support in their daily lives. With an average pricing of $4,250, ...

From $4,250/mo

7.3

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Alexandria Victoria

226 Morrissey Boulevard, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home , Memory Care

Alexandria Victoria is a charming senior living community nestled at 226 Morrissey Boulevard, offering residents a serene and supportive environment. With a focus on providing exceptional care and medical services, Alexandria Victoria ensures that residents receive the attention and assistance they need. The community offers 24-hour supervision, assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dr...

From $5,850/mo

5.5

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Flor's Guest Home 1

1106 Darlene Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home

Flor's Guest Home 1 offers a warm and inviting senior living community, nestled in a serene neighborhood on Darlene Drive. This small, close-knit community prioritizes exceptional care and medical services, ensuring residents receive the support they need around the clock. With 24-hour supervision, assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers, and meticulous medication...

From $4,600/mo

5.5

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Nona's Cottage

161 Archer Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home

Nona's Cottage, nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz at 161 Archer Drive, offers a warm and inviting environment for seniors seeking a supportive and vibrant community. This small, close-knit community is dedicated to providing exceptional care and medical services to its residents. With 24-hour supervision, assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, Nona'...

From $4,600/mo

5.5

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Rachelle's Home Iii

4101 Fairway Drive, Soquel, CA 95073

Assisted Living

Nestled in the heart of California, Rachelle's Home III offers a welcoming and nurturing environment for its residents. This medium-sized senior living community is dedicated to providing exceptional care and medical services, ensuring peace of mind for both residents and their families. The community is equipped with a comprehensive range of health care services, including a 24-hour call system, ...

From $3,800/mo

7.3

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Alexandria Victoria 2

228 Morrissey Boulevard, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living

Alexandria Victoria Assisted Living is a warm and welcoming community that has been dedicated to providing exceptional care since 1974. Nestled in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood, this family-run establishment is renowned for its personalized approach to assisted living. With a focus on the well-being of each resident, Alexandria Victoria ensures a nurturing environment where everyone is treat...

From $5,850/mo

3.8

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Live In Serenity

1340 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living

Welcome to Live In Serenity, an intimate board and care home in Santa Cruz, CA. Live In Serenity is located at 1340 17th Ave, and offers assisted living to older adults. We know that price is an important factor in

From $4,600/mo

3.6

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Hanover Guest Home

813 Hanover Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home

Hanover Guest Home, nestled on 813 Hanover Street, offers an inviting atmosphere for seniors looking for a peaceful and supportive community. With a focus on comprehensive care and medical services, residents benefit from 24-hour supervision, assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, ensuring they receive the attention and care they need. The community ...

From $2,750/mo

3.6

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The Maple House

410 Pennsylvania Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Assisted Living

From $4,600/mo

3.6

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Seaview Guest Home

7321 Mesa Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home , Memory Care

Seaview Guest Home offers a welcoming and supportive environment for seniors, emphasizing comprehensive care and medical services. Nestled in a serene neighborhood, this small community provides personalized attention and a range of health care services, ensuring residents receive 24-hour supervision and assistance with daily activities. The dedicated staff is skilled in managing medication and co...

From $4,800/mo

7.3

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Willowbrook Residential Care 2

174 Willowbrook Drive, Ben Lomond, CA 95005

Assisted Living , Board and Care Home , Memory Care

Wrc-2 is a charming senior living community nestled in the serene surroundings of Ben Lomond, California. This small community offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those seeking personalized care and attention. Residents can enjoy the tranquility of the beautifully maintained garden and walking paths, perfect for leisurely strolls and moments of reflection. The com...

From $3,600/mo

3.6

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1 - 20 of 20 results

Top rated assisted living in Santa Cruz, CA

In Santa Cruz, California, there are 20 assisted living communities, with eight rated above 8. Top-rated facilities include Oakmont of Fullerton, Brookdale Brea, Sunrise Of Orange, Oakmont of Chino Hills, and Sunrise Of Yorba Linda. The area comprises six large, six medium, and eight small communities. Recent activities facilitated by Seniorly include four moves and 13 tours. Local advisory services are provided by Lauren Ross.

20+

Assisted living communities analyzed

740+

Comprehensive reviews

70+

Community photographs

10+

Detailed pricing sources

Verified

Best of 2025

Oakmont of Fullerton

433 West Bastanchury Road, Fullerton, CA 92835

Assisted Living , Memory Care , Independent Living

"I took my grandmother to Oakmont Fullerton yesterday for a tour and was extremely impressed. The staff were incredibly responsive and caring, answering all of our questions before we arrived. The facility itself is absolutely stunning, in a secluded location right next to hiking trails. My grandmother put down a deposit yesterday and we are looking forward to moving in next week. I would highly re..." - Dick

From $5,295/mo

9.9

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Verified

Brookdale Brea

285 West Central Avenue , Brea, CA 92821

Assisted Living

"All i can say is Donuts in the Bistro Day" -

From $4,900/mo

9.9

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Verified

Sunrise Of Orange

1301 East Lincoln Avenue, Orange, CA 92865

Assisted Living , Memory Care

Sunrise of Orange is a distinguished senior living community nestled in the serene heart of Orange County, California. This community is ideally located near major routes, providing easy access for family visits and excursions to the rich cultural attractions of the area and the picturesque California coast. With its close proximity to a variety of shops, restaurants, and parks along Lincoln Avenu...

From $7,722/mo

9.9

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Verified

Oakmont of Chino Hills

14837 Peyton Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709

Assisted Living , Memory Care , Independent Living

Oakmont of Chino Hills stands as a beacon of exceptional senior living, offering a harmonious blend of luxury, care, and community in a picturesque setting. Residents are welcomed into a vibrant community where their well-being is the priority, supported by comprehensive wellness and medical services. The dedicated team at Oakmont provides 24-hour care with a full-time nurse on-site, ensuring that...

From $5,895/mo

9.9

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Verified

Sunrise Of Yorba Linda

4792 Lakeview Avenue, Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Assisted Living , Memory Care

Sunrise of Yorba Linda stands as a beacon of exceptional care and vibrant living for seniors, nestled in a neighborhood rich with convenient amenities and a supportive community atmosphere. This senior living community is lauded for its personalized approach to resident care, where designated care managers work diligently to align services with the unique needs and preferences of each resident. Th...

From $7,144/mo

9.9

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Best value assisted living in Santa Cruz, CA

In Santa Cruz, California, the best value assisted living communities, identified for their high ratings coupled with low care costs, include Merrill Gardens at West Covina, Glen Terra Assisted Living, Regency Park Astoria, Greenleaf Court, and Oaks of Pasadena. This conclusion is based on an analysis of 740 reviews and 14 price data points.

Verified

Best of 2025

Merrill Gardens at West Covina

1400 West West Covina Parkway, West Covina, CA 91790

Assisted Living , Memory Care , Independent Living

Merrill Gardens at West Covina is a vibrant senior living community designed to cater to the unique needs of its residents, offering a seamless blend of independence and support. Nestled in a bustling neighborhood, the community provides easy access to various amenities, including top-notch medical facilities, ensuring residents receive comprehensive care. With a focus on health and wellness, M...

From $3,100/mo

9.8

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Verified

Glen Terra Assisted Living

917 North Louise Street, Glendale, CA 91207

Assisted Living

"so far THE FOOD IS WONDERFUL. CARE IS EXCEPTIONAL. LOTS OF HAPPY PEOPLE HERE." - JAN

From $3,800/mo

9.8

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Regency Park Astoria

925 East Villa Street, Pasadena, CA 91106

Assisted Living , Memory Care

"When I visit my mother, she is always having a good time. " - Eulonda W

From $3,000/mo

9.8

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Verified

Greenleaf Court

8101 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602

Assisted Living

"My dad moved into Brookdale Central a few months ago and overall we are very pleased with our decision and how well the transition has gone. While the decision to move was difficult, once that was done everything else went fairly smoothly. The staff and other residents were super welcoming, the activities calendar gave him a reason to get out of his room and be social in those early weeks, and th..." -

From $2,750/mo

9.8

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Oaks of Pasadena

2954 East Del Mar Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107

Assisted Living

"The Oaks of Pasadena is a charming senior community with very friendly staff and residents. Definitely worth checking out!" - Steve

From $4,000/mo

9.8

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Advisor recommended assisted living in Santa Cruz, CA

In Santa Cruz, California, Seniorly's local advisor, Lauren Ross, recommends four assisted living communities out of the 20 in the area. The recommended communities are Glen Terra Assisted Living, Merrill Gardens at West Covina, Greenleaf Court, and Regency Park Oak Knoll. These selections are based on the expertise of Seniorly's senior living experts.

Lauren Ross

Santa Cruz Seniorly Advisor

9.8

Average Seniorly Community score of advisor recommended communities

5 assisted living communities

Verified

Glen Terra Assisted Living

917 North Louise Street, Glendale, CA 91207

Assisted Living

"so far THE FOOD IS WONDERFUL. CARE IS EXCEPTIONAL. LOTS OF HAPPY PEOPLE HERE." - JAN

From $3,800/mo

9.8

See details

Verified

Best of 2025

Merrill Gardens at West Covina

1400 West West Covina Parkway, West Covina, CA 91790

Assisted Living , Memory Care , Independent Living

From $3,100/mo

9.8

See details

Verified

Greenleaf Court

8101 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602

Assisted Living

From $2,750/mo

9.8

See details

Verified

Savant Of Alhambra

1 East Commonwealth, Alhambra, CA 91801

Assisted Living

"I visited Brookdale Alhambra and found it to be welcoming with a home like feel. It was helpful talking to the staff, they were friendly, professional and patient. The latter being particularly important because assisted living is a new concept for me and my family. This didn't have the feel of a sleepy nursing home so I think my mom would be happy here. I'm going to give this five stars, might co..." - Maggie

From $5,000/mo

9.8

See details

Verified

Regency Park Oak Knoll

255 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101

Assisted Living , Memory Care

"We have researched and visited multiple facilities in the area. Regency Park Oak Knoll is by far the best place available. Their staff has been fantastic, the accommodations are excellent and the food is first rate. The place specializes in memory care and the staff provides all the care and support that is needed. Highly recommend." - Scott

From $5,950/mo

9.7

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Compare average cost of assisted living in Santa Cruz, CA area with nearby cities

The figures below show the average monthly starting costs for assisted living of nearby cities. Keep in mind that these figures are an average, and that the numbers used to calculate it spanned a wide range. In fact, Seniorly data suggests that most families will underestimate their monthly budget by almost 20%, meaning that once inclusions and services are factored in, they can actually afford more than they originally thought.

$5,498/mo

Watsonville

See communities

$5,247/mo

Los Gatos

See communities

$5,296/mo

Saratoga

See communities

$5,565/mo

Campbell

See communities

$5,147/mo

Morgan Hill

See communities

$4,647/mo

Marina

See communities

Assisted Living amenities in Santa Cruz area

100% of these assisted living have walking paths

50% of these assisted living feel like home

50% of these assisted living offer resident-run activities

50% of these assisted living have a restaurant style

33% of these assisted living are verified

33% of these assisted living offer fitness activities

Average Seniorly Community Score in Santa Cruz

7.5

Very good

Seniorly Community Score

What is Seniorly Community Score?

The Seniorly Community Score is a comprehensive and unbiased rating system that takes into account multiple factors crucial to senior living quality. We've meticulously analyzed thousands of senior living communities across the country to create an innovative and accurate assessment of each community's strengths and offerings. The Seniorly Community Score employs a user-friendly scale from 1 to 10, with 10 signifying an exceptional senior living community and 1 representing the lower end of quality, ensuring an easy-to-understand and transparent evaluation for families.

Get to know Santa Cruz area

Total population: 64,522

28% of population is 50+ years old, 12% is 65+ years old

Median income: $80,554

The poverty rate is 9% higher for this region compared to the California state average, which is 12%

Diversity

10% Asian, 21% Hispanic, and 74% White of population

Learn about assisted living citations in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz assisted living communities had an average of 3.6 citations in 2023. This is 80% higher than the Santa Cruz County average of 2 citations and 24.28% lower than the California average of 4.75 citations.

What are citations?

Citations are official notifications issued by regulatory agencies during inspections of assisted living facilities. These citations are given when violations or deficiencies related to resident safety, care, or adherence to regulations are identified. They serve as a means to highlight areas where the facility may not be meeting the required standards, prompting the need for corrective action. Citations can range in severity, with Type A citations addressing more serious violations that may pose potential harm to residents, and Type B citations addressing less severe infractions.

Learn about assisted living allegations in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz assisted living communities had an average of 6.3 allegations in 2023. This is 26% higher than the Santa Cruz County average of 5 allegations and 34.35% higher than the California average of 4.69 allegations.

What are allegations?

Allegations are critical in California assisted living licensing compliance as they signal potential issues and trigger thorough investigations. By addressing allegations promptly, regulators can enforce corrective actions, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for senior living communities' residents. Maintaining accountability through investigations helps uphold the highest standards of care in the industry.

Learn about assisted living inspections in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz assisted living communities had an average of 3.1 inspections in 2023. This is 1.71% lower than the Santa Cruz County average of 3.15 inspections and 9.96% higher than the California average of 2.82 inspections. A lower number of inspections in assisted living facilities is actually better because it indicates a higher level of consistent compliance with regulations and standards.

What are inspections?

Inspections play a vital role in the context of California assisted living licensing compliance as they are key to maintaining the highest standards of care and safety for seniors. Regular and thorough inspections are conducted by regulatory authorities to assess whether assisted living facilities meet the required licensing standards and regulations. These inspections help identify any potential issues, deficiencies, or violations within the facilities, ensuring prompt corrective actions and improvements are implemented. By holding facilities accountable through inspections, California can ensure that seniors residing in these communities receive the best possible care and support, fostering an environment of trust and confidence for families seeking suitable living options for their loved ones.

Explore other types of communities in Santa Cruz, CA

Independent Living

For active older adults who want to downsize to a home in a retirement community but don't need help to live independently.

Memory Care

A supervised and secured community designed to support engagement and quality of life for residents living with dementia.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities

For residents who want to age in place as their care needs change—from Independent Living to nursing care. Requires a buy-in fee.

Nursing Homes

For seniors with more serious medical needs who require skilled care following a hospitalization, illness, or surgery. Nursing Homes are also known as skilled nursing facilities.

Board and Care Home

Homes in residential neighborhoods that are equipped and staffed to provide daily care for a small number of residents.