Retirement is a fresh start, and having the proper community in place matters to feel at home, protected , and active. There are numerous options, making it perplexing to choose correctly. This article has narrowed down the 10 best retirement communities in California for 2025 using amenities, health care, resident satisfaction, and location as determining factors. Regardless of your preference for beach escape, city dwellings, or serene countryside surroundings, these communities offer the best retirement lifestyle.
Best Retirement Communities in California
1. Valle Verde – Santa Barbara
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, Valle Verde is a high-end retirement community famous for its lush 63-acre campus. Residents enjoy:
- Heated outdoor pool and fitness center
- Two dining venues with chef-prepared meals
- Pickleball court and putting green
- Full-service salon and wellness clinic
Monthly prices are from $1,980 to $8,375, depending on the level of care. Independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory support services are available.
2. White Sands La Jolla
As the only beachfront retirement community in California, White Sands La Jolla has oceanfront views and luxury experience . Major amenities include:
- Direct access to the beach
- Independent living and assisted living
- Memory support programs and skilled nursing
- Heated year-round outdoor pool and spa
White Sands is a Best Senior Living Community in a number of categories. It pairs a serene ocean with engaging activities to create an enriching experience.
3. Vi at Palo Alto
Located in Silicon Valley, Vi at Palo Alto is a top-rated choice for retirees seeking a vibrant cultural and upscale environment. Amenities include:
- Heated salt-filtered indoor pool
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- 24-hour valet parking services
- Medicare-certified skilled nursing
With a Type A Continuing Care Retirement Community plan, residents enjoy guaranteed healthcare expenses at different levels of care. Retired professionals and scholars are attracted to the lively intellectual atmosphere.
4. Piedmont Gardens – Oakland
Piedmont Gardens, Oakland’s only continuing care retirement community, offers a combination of urban amenities and peaceful residential living. Facilities include:
- Assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing
- Restaurant-style dining with vegetarian options
- Weekly concerts and wellness programs
- Proximity to Kaiser Foundation Hospital
Rates are $1,850 to $8,695 per month, offering a variety of health care services and amenities. Residents have a close-knit community with diverse social activities.
5. The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens – Fresno
The first Life Plan Community in Fresno, The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens, provides total senior living care. Amenities include:
- Heated outdoor pool and fitness center
- Community garden and pet-friendly grounds
- Skilled nursing care with 24-hour assistance
- On-site medical professionals providing individualized care
The campus is 26 acres, providing covered walkways, contemporary homes, and convenient access to city amenities.
6. Belmont Village San Jose
Conveniently located near the historic Winchester Mystery House, Belmont Village San Jose is perfect for seniors requiring memory care and assisted living. The community provides:
- Seven-day wellness programs
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- 24/7 licensed nursing professionals
- Chef-prepared meals with restaurant-style dining
Rates vary between $5,944 and $10,080, and they cover outstanding care and enhancement of lifestyle experiences.
7. Atria Park of Pacific Palisades
With views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains, Atria Park provides picturesque scenery and a luxurious retirement lifestyle. The community offers the following for residents:
- Ocean- and mountain-view rooftop garden
- Emergency call systems within all apartments
- Additional nursing and memory care support services
- More than 200+ programs offered each month to the residents
Monthly fees range from $6,195 to $9,495, so it is a premium option for retirees who want an active and scenic community.
8. Plymouth Village – Redlands
37 acres of manicured grounds give Plymouth Village a peaceful and community-based retirement experience. It has:
- Independent living in single-story homes
- Assisted living with personalized care plans
- Memory support and skilled nursing care
- Fitness center and resident-run library
The community shares with the University of Redlands, providing life-long learning. It’s one of the best value and widest range in the 10 retirement communities in California.
9. Carmel Valley Manor
Resort-style lifestyle at Carmel Valley Manor is a Blue Zone Certified retirement community. The community features:
- Homes on ground level with direct access to a garden
- Dining room that’s panoramic, with three daily meals
- Gardens, landscaped grounds, putting green, and swimming pool
- Professionally-equipped fitness and wellness facilities
Located near Pebble Beach and Monterey Bay, it features a mild climate and vibrant life activities.
10. The Terraces of Los Gatos
For those who desire an elegant and well-tailored community, The Terraces of Los Gatos offers seclusion coupled with activity. Residents have access to:
- Personalized health care services
- Gourmet dining with farm-to-table options
- Equipped facilities for fitness and wellness
- Social events, concerts, and cultural performances
Located in the neighborhood of Silicon Valley, this Life Plan Community is a retirement community offering long-term stability and luxury living.
Why Choose One of the 10 California Retirement Communities?
Each of these 10 California retirement communities offers:
- Varied Living Arrangements – From independent apartments to skilled nursing
- Outstanding Healthcare Services – Personalized care, on-site medical staff, and wellness programs
- Vibrant Social Life – Fitness programs, cultural programs, and social events
- Lovely Places – Beach, city, and scenic suburban environments
Selecting an ideal retirement community is based on individual lifestyle needs, health requirements, and finances. Retirement communities make sure that the elderly spend their golden years in comfort, safety, and lively environments.
Last Thoughts
Retirement can be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. No matter if you prefer oceanfront luxury, a lively suburban community, or a peaceful rural sanctuary, these 10 California retirement communities provide excellent lifestyles.
If you or a loved one are considering senior living, touring these communities is the start of a fulfilling retirement. Each offers its own unique amenities and services, giving residents a high quality of life and the right balance of care, socialization, and independence.
