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Independent Living in San Mateo, California

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Reviewed by Linda Iwamoto

Last updated October 31, 2026

San Mateo offers a diverse range of 11 Independent Living communities giving families varied options to choose from. The communities in the San Mateo area have an average rating of 9.8 out of 10. CareScout also uses CareScout Price Estimate for cost comparisons with nearby cities, and even highlights new construction facilities for those seeking modern amenities. Families can look at 945 photos, 2,181 ratings and reviews, and 31 prices in the San Mateo area to get a sense of independent living in the area. If you're looking for modern amenities, keep an eye out for our "new construction" badge which will help you find the newest facilities in your area. The new age of retirement living is here, with so many options for independent seniors. From all-inclusive retirement communities to luxury facilities for those who want to stay active, we've got the most comprehensive set of options. Many of these facilities also offer assisted living and memory care, so if you're looking for a community that allows you to age in place, there are plenty of choices. For personalized assistance, CareScout local advisors Linda Iwamoto, Al Oliveros and Tina Brown are available to help with your search.

The 11 Best Independent Living in San Mateo, California


11 communities near San Mateo, California

Atria At Foster Square, Image 1

Atria At Foster Square

From $8,400/mo

707 Thayer Lane , Foster City, CA, 94404
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"My aunt lived here for 3 years. She was quite frail but made friends and was cared for till the end." - Clarissa

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Burlingame Senior Living, Image 1

Burlingame Senior Living

From $4,095/mo

250 Myrtle Road, Burlingame, CA, 94010
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"Your residence is very compact. My wife is not ready to enter this kind of life, as yet. I had some consern of not knowing what the cost would be. I talked with Ruth and she gave me the cost , to have my wife there, however when we took the tour, the gentle man , who showed us around, couldnot give me a cost. He said the building had change hands, and costs would be different" - john…

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Oakmont of Burlingame, Image 1

Oakmont of Burlingame

From $4,200/mo

1818 Trousdale Drive, Burlingame, CA, 94010
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"Oakmont of Burlingame is a five-star retirement home that truly stands out. Its location just across the street from Mills Peninsula Hospital is not just convenient but also a reassuring factor for residents and their families. This community offers a remarkable standard of living. The staff is warm, friendly, and always ready to assist, making residents feel cherished and secure. They provide an exceptional level of care and attention to individual needs. One of the notable features of Oakmont of Burlingame is the dining experience. The meals are not your typical retirement home fare; they're restaurant-quality. The diverse menu offers gourmet dishes that cater to a variety of tastes, making every meal a delightful experience. The amenities and activities provided are also exceptional, offering residents a wide range of options to keep them engaged and active. From fitness programs to social events, there's always something enjoyable happening." - Jannette…

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The Peninsula Regent , Image 1

The Peninsula Regent

From $7,380/mo

1 Baldwin Avenue, San Mateo, CA, 94401
Independent Living

Welcome to The Peninsula Regent, a one-of-a-kind retirement community that grows more vital every day. Here, retirement is the time for renaissance, the continued enjoyment of a fulfilling and vibrant life, all in your control. Explore the freedom that comes from the easy, resort style of living at The Peninsula Regent, surrounded by classic amenities, impeccable service, engaging activities and stimulating companionship, all within walking distance of downtown San Mateo. We strive to provide independence, security, and peace of mind to our members, allowing them the freedom to focus on the most important things in life. You’ll find a sense of understated elegance refined in each detail throughout The Peninsula Regent. From the richly designed interiors to the exquisitely landscaped gardens and stately, wood-paneled dining rooms, you’re sure to appreciate the attention to detail and warm, gracious atmosphere. Your home at The Peninsula Regent sits above a two-acre estate. Every aspect has been specially designed for your comfort and convenience. Our unique, cross-shaped layout ensures that everything is always within easy reach. You can relax by the fire in our warm and cozy library, entertain guests in the dining room, or take a swim in our indoor pool. In addition to your beautifully appointed residence, you can enjoy over 50,000 square feet of member areas, including four quarter-acre lushly landscaped parks. Plus, our luxurious Penthouse suites are available for visits from family and friends. Rethink the potential of every day – you’re free to live in the moment. Every single one of them. Your home at The Peninsula Regent has been thoughtfully designed for your comfort and enjoyment. Each of our 207 condominiums is carefully proportioned, with high ceilings and a private balcony. Best of all, the building’s cross-shaped layout means that each residence enjoys lots of natural light and great views. Spend time in your own home or out and about in the community’s more than 50,000 square feet of common area. Each home is just a short distance to The Peninsula Regent’s amenities, steps from the elevators at the heart of the building. When you purchase your home, our staff will collaborate with you to make sure that every feature in the home reflects your personal tastes. Working with our virtual design center, you will collaborate with The Peninsula Regent’s interior designer as we prepare storyboards of colors, textures and finishes to ensure the details of your home meet your expectations.…

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Cadence Millbrae, Image 1

Cadence Millbrae

From $2,995/mo

9.9
1201 Broadway, Millbrae, CA, 94030
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

Enjoy the stunning views of tranquil Millbrae, CA and start living the life you’ve always wanted. Our mix of programming enhances individual happiness and wellness so you can get the best out of retirement.

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The Trousdale, Image 1

The Trousdale

From $6,535/mo

1600 Trousdale Drive, Burlingame, CA, 94010
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"Newest facility in Burlingame. Eskaton is a local Northern California operator with a great reputation." - Jill

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Ivy Park At Belmont, Image 1

Ivy Park At Belmont

From $5,995/mo

1010 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Belmont, CA, 94002
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"Was previously a Sunrise but not is under Ivy. The care staff is very good and compassionate. My mother in law moved in here after a fall last year and has been very happy here. I would recommend the community and specially the staff." - Leslie

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Oakmont Of Redwood City, Image 1

Oakmont Of Redwood City

From $6,495/mo

1 East Selby Lane, Redwood City, CA, 94063
Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living

"On the outside, this facility presents well. On the inside, my loved one was not well cared for. Examples: a "med tech" came to take a wellness check, however the blood pressure cuff didn't work, he brought back a second one which also didn't work, and left to get a third one! Another example; at 3 am my partner had pain; he pressed the button and asked for pain meds; the attendant came in 10 minutes and my partner asked for pain med only to be followed by a "med tech" arriving 10 minutes later to ask (again) about the problem; my partner asked AGAIN for pain med, TWO HOURS later, the med tech brought the pain med! This is inexcusable and incompetence. The facility has some nice staff, but others are untrained and clueless. The restaurant has limited food; and if one is there at "off-hours," one is not treated well, even though the rules say food is available at any time. Staffing is mixed with some nice and others being regimented and letting one know there are "rules."." - Helen…

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Sterling Court, Image 1

Sterling Court

From $4,650/mo

850 North El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA, 94401
Assisted Living, Independent Living

"I have lived at Sterling Court for over two years. I realized I no longer needed to keep my house. It was the right choice for me. My children have their own lives now so I don't need the worries of home ownership. My one bedroom apartment is perfect for my cat and me. I have a lovely deck/balcony and the kitchen has a full size refrigerator and oven. The food is delicious and can be delivered to your apartment if you don't feel like going to the dining room. There are in-house activities like lectures, Bridge and other games and Social Hour with wine and nibbles and music, and then trips to Hillbarn theater and other places. Lots of lovely people to meet and have dinner with and all the Staff are very helpful." - Marcia…

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Institute on Aging

Institute on Aging

From $5,700/mo

3.8
951 Mariners Island Boulevard , Foster City, CA, 94404
Independent Living

The Institute on Aging, nestled at 951 Mariners Island Boulevard, offers a warm and inviting senior living community in the serene neighborhood of Foster City, California. This small community stands out for its comprehensive care and medical services, ensuring that residents receive the highest level of attention and assistance. With 24-hour supervision and support for daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their health and well-being are prioritized. The community is enriched with a variety of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. From the game room and library to the fitness room and garden, there are ample opportunities for relaxation and engagement. The wellness room, spa, and scheduled movie nights add to the vibrant atmosphere, while daily and community-sponsored activities encourage social interaction and a sense of belonging. Located in a neighborhood that boasts a diverse population and a high median income, the Institute on Aging is surrounded by essential services and leisure spots. Nearby, the San Mateo Medical Center is just 2 miles away, providing quick access to healthcare. The California Skin Institute, located 2.4 miles from the community, offers specialized medical services, and CVS Pharmacy, less than a mile away, ensures that prescription needs are easily met. For those who enjoy dining out or a casual coffee, the neighborhood does not disappoint. The New England Lobster Market & Eatery and Philz Coffee, both 6 miles away, provide delightful culinary experiences and cozy spots for residents to unwind. Additionally, the area is enriched with parks and walking paths, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the outdoors. While the community itself may not be new construction, it radiates a welcoming charm and a commitment to providing a nurturing environment for its residents. The optimistic atmosphere and the surrounding amenities make the Institute on Aging a desirable place to call home. For more information or to schedule a tour, potential residents and their families can visit the community's tour link.…

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1 - 11 of 11 results

Best value independent living in San Mateo, California

Based on 2,181 reviews and 31 available price data points, Chateau Cupertino Retirement Residence and Hilltop Estates stand out as best-value assisted living options in the San Mateo area, combining strong ratings with comparatively low care costs.
The average price of these communities is $4,710 lower than the maximum price of similar independent living communities in San Mateo, California
$3,285
$2,835
$7,995
Chateau Cupertino Retirement Residence, Image 1

Chateau Cupertino Retirement Residence

From $3,400/mo

9.8
10150 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, CA 95014
Independent Living

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Silicon Valley, Chateau Cupertino offers a warm and inviting environment for independent senior living. This community has been dedicated to providing a comfortable and secure home for over 36 years. Residents are welcomed into a nurturing atmosphere where their well-being is the top priority. With a range of apartment configurations including Alcove, Suites, One Be...…

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Hilltop Estates, Image 1

Hilltop Estates

From $3,169/mo

451 Hilltop Drive, Redding, CA 96003
Independent Living

Hilltop Estates stands as a beacon of exceptional senior living, offering residents a vibrant community that seamlessly blends independence with supportive services. Nestled in a serene neighborhood, this senior living community distinguishes itself with a focus on comprehensive care and medical services, ensuring peace of mind for both residents and their families. The community is surrounded ...…

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Compare average cost of independent living in San Mateo, California area with nearby cities

The figures below show the average monthly starting costs for independent 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, CareScout 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.

Independent Living amenities in San Mateo area

  • 100% of these independent living are verified
  • 100% of these independent living offer resident-run activities
  • 100% of these independent living have walking paths
  • 100% of these independent living have a restaurant style

Learn about independent living citations in San Mateo, CA

San Mateo independent living communities had an average of 9 citations in 2023. This is 148.28% higher than the San Mateo County average of 3.63 citations and 34.25% higher than the California average of 6.7 citations.

02468109San Mateo, CA3.63San Mateo County6.7California

Explore other types of communities in San Mateo, 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.

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Memory Care

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

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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.

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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.

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Board and Care Home

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

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Independent Living Facilities near San Mateo, CA

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