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Page Reviewed / Updated – January 14, 2024
Berkeley is known for mild year-round temperatures and close proximity to beaches, mountains and forests. However, these perks come with a drawback; the cost of living in this city is higher than both state and national averages. Most of this is due to housing costs, which have less impact on seniors seeking assisted living. California also doesn’t tax Social Security income, which can stretch budgets.
Around 119,000 people live in Berkeley, with 15.3% ages 65 and older. Assisted living in this city averages $6,261 per month, which is high compared to the state average of $4,946 and the national norm of $4,459.
This guide addresses the average cost of assisted living in Berkeley and local resources that may be useful.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Berkeley, CA
When determining how to finance Assisted Living, it’s essential to first know the expense involved for your loved one to join a reputable community. With the ongoing increase in costs, having current information is crucial when budgeting for senior care. To help highlight the influence of inflation on senior living expenses, PayingForSeniorCare.com has collected cost data from its extensive network of over 75,000 senior living communities. This data represents the average cost of Assisted Living in Berkeley and in 200 other cities in California.
Inflation & the Cost of Assisted Living in Berkeley, CA
Due to inflation, the average cost of assisted living in Berkeley increased by $546 from 2022 to 2023 and is projected to rise to $6,743 in 2024. Nationwide, costs increased an average of 10% from 2022 to 2023, and are likely to increase to $4,802 by 2024. In California, the average cost rose 7%, slower than nationwide trends. In San Francisco, seniors saw a $678 increase from 2022 to 2023 while those in Fremont experienced an increase from $4,758 to $5,213. In Fairfield, costs rose $436 during this time. These changes illustrate the importance of careful planning for senior living.
Location |
2022 Cost (Historical) |
2023 Cost (Current) |
2024 Cost (Estimated) |
Berkeley |
$5,715 |
$6,261 |
$6,743 |
U.S. Average |
$4,070 |
$4,459 |
$4,802 |
California |
$4,625 |
$4,946 |
$5,221 |
San Francisco |
$7,099 |
$7,777 |
$8,375 |
Fremont |
$4,758 |
$5,213 |
$5,614 |
Fairfield |
$4,564 |
$5,000 |
$5,385 |
The Cost of Other Types of Care in Berkeley, CA
In Berkeley, senior living costs range based on factors such as the level of assistance and services. Assisted living averages $6,261 on average for around-the-clock help with daily living tasks. Memory care costs more due to additional supportive services for cognitive decline, averaging $7,539 monthly. Independent living, which is meant for self-reliant seniors who need minimal support, averages $4,149. While exploring senior living options, consider costs, desired amenities and required services.
Care Type |
Cost |
Assisted Living |
$6,261 |
Memory Care |
$7,539 |
Independent Living |
$4,149 |
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Berkeley, CA
Other Ways To Pay for Assisted Living in Berkeley, CA
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For additional information and planning, read our comprehensive guide to paying for senior care in California.
Rules and Regulations for Assisted Living Facilities in Berkeley, CA
Assisted Living Communities in Berkeley are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.
The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Berkeley, CA
Elegance Berkeley
Elegance Berkeley takes a holistic approach to its residents’ well-being. It begins with a complete health evaluation to develop a personalized care plan at move-in, with updates made as needs change. Assisted living apartments include safety and accessibility features, with various studio and one-bedroom floor plans available. Residents benefit from weekly housekeeping, linen and laundry services and enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily. The walkable urban location and easy access to public transportation provide ample opportunities to explore popular places around the city. Residents also have numerous perks on-site, including a bistro with a wine bar, hair and nail salon, theater, massage suite and library.
Features
- Physical and occupational therapy center
- All pets welcome
Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights
Located just 5 miles south of Berkeley, we included Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights on our list for its range of award-winning amenities and care services. Pacifica’s Heartland™ Assisted Living program provides residents with the supportive services they need to continue living as independently as possible. On-site chefs prepare fresh meals daily, and a full-time, certified chauffeur provides rides for medical appointments, religious services, shopping and other errands. Residents also enjoy group outings and numerous on-site activities as they meet new friends and discover new interests through various Life Enrichment programs. Cats and dogs, subject to breed and weight restrictions, are welcome in the community.
Features
- On-site devotional services
- Guests welcome at mealtimes and overnight
Westmont of Pinole
Westmont of Pinole sits off San Pablo Bay, 12 miles north of Berkeley. The pet-friendly community offers personalized services, restaurant-style dining, shared or private accommodations and numerous activities to ensure residents remain active. Its "Live Your Way" program allows residents to engage in activities of their choosing. They'll find an eclectic range of activities, whether it's taking a heart-pumping fitness class, getting pampered at the on-site salon, strolling through the lush courtyard or making new friends at the dog park. The bayfront location is also within walking distance of a coffee shop, a grocery store and many restaurants for those wanting to explore outside the community.
Sunrise of Oakland Hills
Five miles south of Berkeley, in a safe Oakland neighborhood, lies Sunrise of Oakland Hills. It made our list because of its proximity to top medical centers such as Alta Bates Summit and Kaiser Permanente. It’s also adjacent to parks and green spaces ideal for walks and outdoor recreation. Residents benefit from having multiple nurses on staff, with monthly wellness visits performed. They have their choice of suites with private bathrooms and cozy kitchenettes and enjoy comfortable community areas. To help residents stay active, the community offers daily social, physical fitness, educational and creative activities to meet varied interests.
Features
- Dedicated culinary, housekeeping and activities teams
- Languages spoken: English, Mandarin, Spanish and Tagalog
Waters Edge Lodge
Waters Edge Lodge, about 20 minutes from Berkeley in Alameda, offers residents a peaceful setting on Harbor Bay. It is conveniently located next to the Harbor Bay Landing Shopping Center, where residents take advantage of the many shops and cafes. The pet-friendly community also offers many on-site perks, including an exercise and wellness center, beauty shop and café serving Peet’s coffee and freshly baked snacks daily. Its activity team provides a comprehensive activities program to meet residents’ social, recreational, creative, intellectual and spiritual needs. Popular activities include daily music concerts, gardening, lectures, arts and crafts, Pilates, book clubs and religious services.
Features
- Private standard and large studio apartments
- Transportation assistance
Oakmont of Cardinal Point
Oakmont of Cardinal Point, about 7 miles south of Berkeley in Alameda, has a wellness center and full-time nurse to help with residents’ health-related needs. Its skilled caregivers provide 24-hour assistance, tailoring services to each resident’s personal needs. The community’s award-winning chefs and culinary team create delicious meals, with daily menu changes based on available in-season, local foods. Its activities team continually develops programs to appeal to various social, recreational and intellectual interests. Residents can choose studio and one- and two-bedroom suites and enjoy many on-site amenities, including a bar and lounge, movie theater, salon and day spa.
Features
- All-inclusive rent
- Resident gardens, walking paths and pet park
Atria Park of Lafayette
Nestled among the green hills of Lafayette, just down the road from Berkeley, Atria Park offers abundant amenities and panoramic northern California views. Its assisted living residents can engage in a range of social, creative, recreational and intellectual activities to help them stay fit and stimulated. Chef-prepared meals feature wholesome menu options made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, with vegetarian, low-salt and low-sugar options available. The community is also near popular local destinations, allowing residents to dine out or visit various shopping and entertainment venues. It also boasts 24-hour staff to take care of residents’ personal care, housekeeping and transportation needs.
Features
- On-site nurse available 24/7
- Full-service salon and spa on-site
Lafayette Gardens
At Lafayette Gardens, just 13 miles east of Berkeley, residents enjoy a cozy setting in central Lafayette. It’s conveniently located near shopping and dining options, or residents can take advantage of the many on-site amenities. Residents can enjoy time outdoors chatting with friends, surrounded by lush yards, on sunny decks and shady patios. They can feed the birds in the custom bird aviary, garden in the raised beds or participate in games and other group activities. Residents also enjoy private studio apartments and three freshly cooked meals daily. Layette Gardens provides laundry services and daily housekeeping; staff will even walk residents’ small pets for them.
Features
- External exit doors in bedrooms
- Music, aroma and pet therapy
Atria Valley View
Less than 16 miles away in the vibrant hills of Walnut Creek, Atria Valley View offers studio and one- and two-bedroom apartments with in-room kitchens or kitchenettes. Its fitness center, computer stations, movie theater and salon/spa provide convenient on-site amenities. Residents enjoy an expansive courtyard and an overlook deck towering above Tice Valley. Professional chefs prepare three meals daily, accommodating special dietary needs. Residents may schedule transportation to nearby restaurants or the Broadway Plaza for an enjoyable outing. Atria's signature Engage Life® program ensures residents’ calendars remain as full as desired, with daily fitness, socializing and educational opportunities.
Features
- Peaceful wooded setting with scenic walking paths
- Chef-prepared meals with vegetarian options
The Point at Rockridge
The Point at Rockridge in Oakland community, just 5 miles from Berkeley, blends safety, security and privacy to create a warm environment and carefree lifestyle. We included it on our list for its innovative Vibrant Life® program that allows residents to create their own schedules. Retaining the option to choose daily activities fosters continued independence. Popular activities include tai chi, yoga, gardening, fun outings, pampering at the salon and catching a flick at the on-site theater. The pet-friendly assisted living community offers distinctive floor plans, with studio and one-bedroom options. It also provides homestyle meals, physical and occupational therapy, housekeeping and laundry services.
Features
- Concierge service
- Private landscaped courtyard