San Francisco is famous for several iconic landmarks, but its proximity to nature and warm Mediterranean weather also makes the city a top destination for retirees and older adults who are still active in the workplace. If you’re looking for the best senior apartments in The City by the Bay, as San Francisco is affectionately known, this guide is for you.
We look at the best options that fall within a 10-mile radius of the downtown area, including areas such as Sausalito and the Marina District; we also will cover available payment methods and resources, regulations, nearby medical facilities, demographics, and, of course, the best sights and activities that San Francisco has to offer.
Senior Living Apartments in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is famous for several iconic landmarks, but its proximity to nature and warm Mediterranean weather also makes the city a top destination for retirees and older adults who are still active in the workplace. If you’re looking for the best senior apartments in The City by the Bay, as San Francisco is affectionately known, this guide is for you.Read more
We look at the best options that fall within a 10-mile radius of the downtown area, including areas such as Sausalito and the Marina District; we also will cover available payment methods and resources, regulations, nearby medical facilities, demographics, and, of course, the best sights and activities that San Francisco has to offer.
Senior Apartments Facilities near San Francisco, CA
I rate them a five on everything except friendliness. On that they get a ten!!!!! My loved one's circumstances were such she was there a little more than two months. It was an interim stop between acute...
Very professional and helpful staff. Attentive to people. I witnessed caring kindness and compassion.. What I experienced was not expected but it was a very eye opening experience. The personnel and staff...
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- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
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- What families are saying about senior apartments in San Francisco
- Costs of senior apartments in the San Francisco area
- How people pay for senior apartments in San Francisco
- Understand California laws and regulations for senior apartments communities
- What to expect from senior apartments in San Francisco
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with San Francisco? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about senior apartments in San Francisco
Recent reviews for senior apartments in San Francisco
Sycamore Hills By the Bay in Hercules, CA
The Broadmoor in San Francisco, CA
Costs of senior apartments in the San Francisco area
The average actual cost for senior apartments in San Francisco runs about $3,629 per month.[01] Location, size, and amenities heavily factor in the cost of senior apartments in San Francisco. Apartments for seniors typically don’t include personal care services, but they may offer amenities, activities, and maintenance; the cost includes all associated fees and service fee add-ons.
The following graphic shows the average baseline rental costs.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in San Francisco, CA vs. nearby cities
San Francisco, CA
How people pay for senior apartments in San Francisco
Senior apartments don’t usually provide meals or in-home care services, mainly because such places are considered general housing where residents are independent. Due to the classification as general housing, rent is not covered by programs like Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term health insurance.
Most San Francisco residents turn to private sources to pay their rent. In the following section, we’ll cover different sources of personal income and how veterans benefits or public assistance can also help seniors pay for housing. If you require in-home health care services, Medicaid and Medicare can still help to offset those costs, and this guide will cover the extent of those benefits as well.
Seniors often start with their savings to pay rent on a senior apartment, but other private income sources include Social Security benefits, pensions, investment returns, and any of the following:
Number of veterans who live in San Francisco
About 57% of San Francisco veterans are 65+
If you are looking to settle down in San Francisco and you — or your spouse — carry veteran status, it’s important to know that there are benefits designed to support retired or older veterans. Several resource centers and veterans service officers can help connect you to benefits in San Francisco. For the sake of this guide, we will focus on VA benefits that may be available to help offset your costs of living and provide resources that can help you to determine your eligibility and apply for those benefits.
Two well-known programs are the VA Pension and Aid and Attendance benefit. The VA Pension has specific eligibility qualifications. These funds can be used to pay for housing and medical bills. Aid and Attendance is useful as it can cover the rent of senior apartments or in-home health care if it improves a veteran’s quality of life; to qualify, California veterans or their surviving spouses must need assistance with daily activities.
The veteran’s benefits system is commendable, but it’s not easy to navigate. In fact, if you’re a first-time applicant who doesn’t know the ropes, it can get complex very quickly. Before starting the application process, contact VA-vetted and -recognized experts. This way, you won’t miss out on any benefits, and they can quickly assess your eligibility and help you every step of the way with your application.
Assistance can be found in veterans services organizations (VSOs), such as the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts or at Disabled American Veterans (DAV), American Legion posts, or the VA office. Note: American Legion Posts 1, 315, 333, 448, 505, 510, 599, and 600 are co-located in the same building; the address is listed in the resources below.
Resources for San Francisco veterans
County Veterans Service Office
2 Gough St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-934-4200
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – noon; 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
California Department of Veterans Services (CalVet)
1227 O St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 800-952-5626
Email
DAV California
13733 Rosecrans Ave.
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
Phone: 562-404-1266
American Legion CA Posts
401 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 559-875-8387
South San Francisco VFW | VFW Post 4103
920 Stonegate Drive
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Phone: 650-589-4030
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In California, Medicaid is referred to as Medi-Cal. This program offers health services to low-income individuals and older adults, among others. Medi-Cal cannot be used to pay rent for a senior apartment, but it can cover some health care costs. For example, if you require medically necessary in-home care services in your apartment, a Home and Community-Based Services waiver program, also called 1915(c) waivers, allows states to use Medicaid money to provide those services at your apartment.
The first step is to check your eligibility and apply for Medi-Cal online. If you have any questions or concerns as you begin the enrollment process, some great aids include the local Medicaid office, the Area Agency on Aging, and the local ombudsman, all of whom have helped numerous enrollees sign up for the program. It is important to note that ombudsman services are free, confidential, and, in San Francisco, are provided by the Felton Institute, a San Francisco Human Services Agency community partner.
San Francisco resident Medicaid resources
Medicaid Office | San Francisco Human Services Agency
2 Gough St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-558-4700
Email: SFMedi-Cal@sfgov.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Area Agency on Aging
1650 Mission St., Fifth Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-355-3555
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
6221 Geary Blvd., Second Floor
San Francisco, CA 94121
Phone: 415-751-9788
Email: ombudsman@felton.org
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older. While Medicare does not cover senior living or senior apartment costs, qualifying seniors can use it to cover some medical costs listed below, such as medically necessary short-term in-home care. Below, you’ll find additional Medicare and adjacent resources that can help offset medical expenses.
- California’s Medicare Savings Programs help low-income older adults to pay their Medicare premiums and copays.
- California’s Prescription Drug Discount Program helps Medicare recipients save money on medications.
- The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) ensures that the elderly get fair and proper medical treatment to help them age at home; interested seniors should check the eligibility requirements.
- San Francisco Health Plan is a local health plan that provides Medicare Advantage plans to eligible individuals. This includes comprehensive health care coverage and additional benefits such as vision, dental, and hearing.
You can apply for Medicare online or visit a local Social Security Administration branch in person. If you’re struggling with the process or have queries, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps seniors navigate Medicare by offering free benefits counseling.
The local ombudsman is another good resource. Ombudsman services are free, confidential, and provided by the Felton Institute, a San Francisco Human Services Agency community partner. An ombudsman advocates for the health care rights of seniors and helps families learn about senior living options and payment methods.
San Francisco resident Medicare resources
Medicare Savings Programs
Phone: 800-541-5555
Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE)
Gee Center
1333 Bush St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: 415-292-8888
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
601 Jackson St., Second Floor
San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: 415-677-7520
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
San Francisco Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
6221 Geary Blvd., Third Floor
San Francisco, CA 94121
Phone: 415-751-9788
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Francisco Health Plan
7 Spring St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: 415-547-7800
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Social Security Administration Offices
90 Seventh St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
1098 Valencia St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
560 Kearny St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Low-income seniors also have the option to turn to housing assistance programs and Social Security benefits to pay the rent. The most well-known housing program is run by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Known as the HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly known as Section 8), this program can help offset rent costs for seniors with qualifying income levels. The caveat is that any selected senior apartment must first agree to accept these HUD vouchers in order for them to be used to cover a portion of a senior’s monthly rent.
You can also contact the Housing Authority of the City and County of San Francisco to learn more about Housing Choice Vouchers.
Often, older adults prefer Social Security benefits as these can assist with any living costs, not just the rent. It’s important to note, however, that not everyone qualifies across the board. Below, you can view the four different types of Social Security benefits and their main terms of eligibility.
- Social Security in retirement: Also referred to as Social Security Retirement Benefit, or SSR, eligibility does not require disability, but seniors need work credits.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (or SSDI): This type requires disability and work credits.
- Supplemental Security Income (or SSI): This option is specifically for disabled individuals with no work credits.
- Social Security survivors pension: This option does not require disability; it’s aimed at the surviving spouse or family of a deceased person.
If you run into problems or have more questions, you can also find guidance from Social Security advocacy programs like Legal Assistance to the Elderly, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. You can find contact details for all of these resources in the resources section below.
San Francisco resident public assistance resources
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
One Sansome St., Suite 1200
San Francisco, CA 94104
Phone: 415-489-6400
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Housing Authority of the City and County of San Francisco
1815 Egbert Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94124
Phone: 415-715-5200
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development
1 Van Ness Ave., No. 5
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-701-5500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Social Security Administration Offices
90 Seventh St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
1098 Valencia St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
560 Kearny St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Legal Assistance to the Elderly
1663 Mission St., No. 225
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: 415-538-3333
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – noon; 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Understand California laws and regulations for senior apartments communities
In general, senior apartments in California do not need to be licensed because they are not care facilities. That being said, they are subject to rental and other housing laws. In this section, we’ll provide you with a good overview of the laws and regulations that apply to senior apartments in San Francisco.
Senior apartments must be Fair Housing Act-compliant. This law prohibits a landlord from refusing you the opportunity to rent — or evicting you — based on your ethnicity, gender, religion, beliefs, health status, age, sexual orientation, or reliance on a housing subsidy such as a Housing Choice Voucher. If someone discriminates against you in this manner, you can contact the San Francisco Human Rights Commission.
Senior apartments must also be ADA-compliant and provide easy access and mobility for people with disabilities. Residents with support animals may also not be discriminated against, as stipulated by the Fair Housing Act, even if pets are not normally allowed.
Maintenance and safety laws also state that landlords must keep the plumbing in good condition, maintain the exterior of the building, and generally keep apartments safe and clean for all residents. You can also view the California Tenants Guide for more information.
In California, senior apartments are inspected by their particular city when the rental property has four or more units. The San Francisco Department of Public Health’s Apartment Inspection Program specifics and inspection reports can provide information on individual properties.
The good news is that there are few, if any, requirements to move into a senior apartment. However, most senior apartments require that residents must be at least 55 years old.
California Department of Health Contact Information
California Department of Public Health
1616 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-558-1784
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Francisco Department of Public Health Contact Information
San Francisco Department of Public Health
101 Grove St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-554-2500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for San Francisco senior apartments communities
At the moment, there are no set COVID-19 rules that people must follow in San Francisco.[02] However, the city does offer general suggestions to keep you and your loved ones safe. It’s recommended that you stay up-to-date with vaccinations, wear a mask if you wish, avoid those with COVID-19, and self-isolate if you suspect that you have been exposed to the virus.
Vaccinations.
It’s recommended to stay updated on vaccinations.
Masking.
Masks are voluntary but recommended in large venues.
Social distancing.
Avoid individuals who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
Quarantining.
Self-isolate when you have been diagnosed with or suspect you have COVID-19.
What to expect from senior apartments in San Francisco
The best senior apartments in San Francisco are known for their great service to residents and their families, comfortable living arrangements, and more. Units in these buildings are often designed with senior-friendly features for accessibility, such as elevators and wide doorways. On-site maintenance, security systems, and access to San Francisco’s myriad transportation options and events are other features many seniors look forward to.
Scenic and tranquil areas
Whether you’re bayside or on the coast, you’ll have easy access to beautiful views and plenty of ways to enjoy gorgeous California weather. While some San Francisco senior apartments are near parks and green spaces, others have their own courtyards or private balconies where seniors can enjoy the sea breeze.
Easy access to everything
Most senior apartments in San Francisco are located within walking distance of stores and restaurants to make errands and socializing easy. Public transit options are also within close reach to make getting around less of a chore.
Senior apartments in the surrounding San Francisco suburbs
Beyond the 10-mile radius of downtown are other options for San Francisco-based seniors; within 25 miles of downtown San Francisco, there are three additional senior apartment facilities partnered with A Place for Mom.
For those considering independent living options as well, A Place for Mom has eight partner facilities within a 10-mile radius of San Francisco’s downtown area.
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Unfamiliar with San Francisco? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in San Francisco
Median annual income for San Francisco seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in San Francisco
UCSF Helen Diller Medical Center at Parnassus Heights
UCSF is a noted Level 1 Trauma Center and the fourth-best hospital in California. Nationally, it ranks highly in geriatric specialty treatment and diabetes/endocrinology. The hospital is also renowned for its performance in 14 surgical procedures, with strong expertise in cancer-related surgeries.
Kaiser Permanente San Francisco
Kaiser Permanente is a Level 1 Trauma Center and is well-known for its high performance in multiple forms of cardiac treatment, including heart failure, heart attack, and bypass surgery. KPSF is also noted for its excellent stroke response treatment.
San Francisco VA Medical Center
This hospital provides general primary care to veterans and also offers educational classes to caregivers of veterans. San Francisco VA Medical Center specializes in cardiac surgery and epilepsy care; the center is also recognized for treating combat-related brain and spinal cord injuries.
Transportation for seniors in San Francisco
San Francisco is known for being one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. With a Walk Score of 89 (a score scaled out of 100, with 100 being a perfect score), this means that you can accomplish the vast majority of your errands on foot.
When public transportation is needed, San Francisco Muni offers an extensive public transportation system, which includes public buses, streetcars, light rails, trolleys, and iconic cable cars.
Francisco also has a bike-friendly culture underscored by the San Francisco Bike Network. For seniors, there are options like taxis that can accommodate varying disabilities and Paratransit’s Van Gogh Shuttle service, which also provides affordable transportation for older adults with physical and mental challenges.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in San Francisco
With its unique historical landmarks, beautiful nature scenes, and vibrant city culture, San Francisco remains a top destination for tourists. For older adults who love to explore and have fun, this city has something for everyone!
From Casinos to green spaces, visit the most popular places
Spend a day at Golden Gate Park — well, maybe a couple of days because there’s so much to do and see! Golden Gate Park is a 1,017-acre wonderland filled with nature, activity sites, gardens, special annual events, and restaurants. Stop by Pier 39 to see the lolling sea lions, pick up a live show, eat out, or do some shopping.
If you’d rather try your luck at a casino, be sure to visit the California Grand Casino to experience the poker games, restaurant meals, and bars.
History, culture, and sport
Visiting the famous former prison on Alcatraz Island is a must. However, San Francisco also has other cultural highlights that you can put on your sightseeing list: There’s the Palace of Fine Arts, which is a prime events venue, originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition. There’s also the California Academy of Sciences, which is a fantastic mix of aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
If you have a hometown favorite or want to root for someone new, San Francisco is home base for plenty of professional sports teams from the NFL’s 49ers and the MLB’s Giants to the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. You can also take in a college-level game at the University of San Francisco.
Older adults can also stay active on six public golf courses that are beautifully maintained by the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department or show off their skills on indoor or outdoor pickleball courts.
The best local senior centers
For those seeking senior socializing opportunities, Golden Gate Park Senior Center is a recreation center open to adults aged 55 and over. Its programs are designed to maintain social, physical, and mental well-being. Another great option is the Sequoia Senior Center, a center for those who are 60+, as well as adults with disabilities; the site provides a creative space, social opportunities, a gym, hot meals, and interesting classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Broadmoor, Sycamore Hills By the Bay and The Villa at San Mateo are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near San Francisco, CA. These Senior Apartments facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Senior Apartments in San Francisco is 2817.91 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place For Mom. (2023). A Place For Mom proprietary data.
San Francisco Department of Health. (March 2023). Coronavirus (COVID-19). Sf.gov.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News & World Report. (2022). UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center.
U.S. News & World Report. (2022). Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center.
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