Independent Living in Santa Monica, CA - Communities
Santa Monica, CA
Independent Living in Santa Monica, CA
2 independent living communities in Santa Monica, California. Compare options, read reviews, and request pricing.
Independent living is community housing for active seniors who want amenities, social life, and freedom from home upkeep without daily personal-care services.
How much does independent living cost in Santa Monica, CA?
Independent Living (typical US range)
$2,500 - $6,000 per month (US, 2026)
Independent living is the most affordable senior-living option because no personal-care services are included. Some communities require an upfront entry fee in exchange for guaranteed access to higher levels of care later (continuing-care retirement communities or CCRCs). Medicare and Medicaid don't cover independent living.
California's cost-of-living index is 151.7 (100 = US average). The median home price is around $505,000. Average rent runs about $1,503 a month. These local costs influence what you can expect to pay for care here.
Independent living fits active seniors who want neighbors, organized activities, and a simpler lifestyle without selling the house and downsizing in solitude. It's not the right fit for someone who needs help with daily tasks - that's assisted living. Many residents move in their late 60s or 70s when they're still fully independent but tired of maintaining a large home.
What independent living typically includes
Apartment, cottage, or townhouse housing
Optional meal plans and on-site dining
Housekeeping and laundry options
Social calendar - classes, fitness, outings, clubs
Maintenance and lawn care included
Transportation to errands and appointments
Fitness centers, pools, and walking paths
Often: priority access to higher levels of care on the same campus
What to look for when touring in Santa Monica
Independent Living in Santa Monica: common questions
How much does independent living cost in Santa Monica, CA?
Independent Living nationally runs $2,500 - $6,000 per month (US, 2026). Pricing in Santa Monica, California varies by care level, apartment size, and community. Request a quote from the communities listed above for exact local pricing.
How many independent living communities are in Santa Monica?
We list 2 independent living communities in Santa Monica, CA, with more in nearby cities such as Marina Del Rey, Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills. Compare them above and request pricing for the ones that fit.
What's the difference between independent living and a 55+ apartment complex?
A 55+ apartment complex is age-restricted housing - that's it. Independent living communities are purpose-built for seniors with shared dining, organized activities, transportation, and often a continuum of care on the same campus. Independent living costs more but includes amenities and a built-in community.
Can you bring your spouse?
Yes. Many independent-living residents move in as couples. Communities have two-bedroom floor plans and accommodate couples even if one partner later needs assisted living.
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Floor plans, square footage, and storage
Pet policy if you have one
What's included in the monthly fee vs. extra
Entry fee or buy-in (some continuing-care communities have one)
Continuing-care guarantee - what happens if you need assisted living later
Resident demographics and lifestyle match
Social calendar - is it active or thin?
Financial health of the community (especially for CCRC entrance fees)
A continuing-care retirement community (CCRC) is a campus that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and often skilled nursing all on the same site. Residents move in independent and have guaranteed access to higher care levels if their needs change. CCRCs usually require an upfront entry fee plus monthly rent.
California has the largest senior population of any US state, with deep market depth in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and the Central Valley. See all independent living in California.
