Senior Living in Riverside, CA
Home to over 37,000 seniors and 5 quality senior living communities, Riverside offers diverse care options in the heart of the Inland Empire.
5 Senior Living Communities in Riverside
5 communities
Citrus Place
7898 California Avenue
Discovery Commons Raincross Senior Living
5232 Central Avenue
Discovery Commons Raincross Senior Living
5232 Central Avenue
Sunrise at Canyon Crest
5265 Chapala Drive
Westmont of Riverside
17050 Arnold Drive
Riverside, California is home to approximately 37,026 residents aged 65 and older, representing 11.7% of the city's population of 316,241. Known for its rich citrus heritage, Mission Inn, and proximity to major medical centers, Riverside provides a compelling mix of affordability and accessibility for seniors and their families. With a median household income of $88,575, the city offers a more economical alternative to coastal California while maintaining robust healthcare infrastructure and cultural amenities.
The city features 5 senior living communities listed with Ultimate Senior Resource, alongside 18 CMS-certified nursing facilities averaging 3.5 stars. Options range from independent living for active seniors to memory care and skilled nursing for those requiring more intensive support. Riverside's established neighborhoods, year-round sunshine, and growing senior services network make it an increasingly popular choice for retirees seeking Southern California living without the premium coastal price tag. The community's commitment to senior wellness is reflected in accessible parks, senior centers, and specialized transportation services throughout the region.
Cost of Senior Living in Riverside
Senior living costs in Riverside are notably higher than national averages but remain more affordable than coastal California alternatives. Assisted living in Riverside averages approximately $7,965 per month, compared to the national average of $5,900, reflecting California's generally higher cost of living. Nursing home care averages $12,524 monthly for a semi-private room, significantly above the national average of $9,277. However, these costs are still considerably lower than Los Angeles or Orange County. Actual expenses vary based on the level of care required, community amenities, location within Riverside, and individual service needs.
Neighborhoods in Riverside for Seniors
Canyon Crest
Canyon Crest is one of Riverside's most desirable neighborhoods for seniors, offering tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and excellent walkability. The area sits near UC Riverside and features easy access to the Canyon Crest Towne Centre for shopping and dining. Seniors appreciate the neighborhood's proximity to Riverside Community Hospital and its reputation as one of the safest areas in the city. The nearby Box Springs Mountain Reserve provides scenic walking trails, while the mature residential character creates a peaceful, established environment ideal for retirement living.
Victoria
The Victoria neighborhood combines historic charm with modern conveniences, situated near downtown Riverside and the iconic Mission Inn. This area offers seniors close proximity to cultural attractions, including the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and Fox Performing Arts Center. Medical facilities are easily accessible, and the neighborhood features several senior-friendly parks and community spaces. While more urban than other areas, Victoria provides excellent walkability to restaurants, shops, and services. The established community has a strong neighborhood watch presence and appeals to seniors who value being near the heart of city life.
La Sierra
La Sierra offers seniors a quieter, more suburban setting in southwest Riverside with convenient access to shopping centers and medical facilities. The neighborhood is home to La Sierra University and features wide streets, established landscaping, and a family-oriented atmosphere. Seniors benefit from proximity to Parkview Community Hospital Medical Center and numerous healthcare specialists in the area. La Sierra Park provides accessible green space for leisurely walks, and the neighborhood's central location allows easy freeway access for family visits. The area strikes a balance between peaceful residential living and practical access to essential services.
Alessandro Heights
Alessandro Heights represents an affordable option for seniors in eastern Riverside, offering a diverse, multicultural community with a strong sense of neighborhood connection. The area features several parks, including Bordwell Park with its senior-friendly walking paths and recreation facilities. While more modest than some Riverside neighborhoods, Alessandro Heights provides good access to healthcare services and public transportation routes. The neighborhood has seen recent improvements in infrastructure and safety, and its location offers convenient access to shopping along Arlington Avenue. Seniors appreciate the community-oriented atmosphere and the presence of multigenerational families in the area.
Senior Care Options in Riverside
Riverside's senior care landscape includes independent living communities for active adults, assisted living facilities providing personalized daily support, memory care units specializing in Alzheimer's and dementia care, and skilled nursing facilities offering 24-hour medical attention. The city's 18 CMS-certified nursing homes average 3.5 stars, reflecting solid quality care options. Many communities offer continuum of care models, allowing seniors to age in place as needs change over time.
Healthcare & Transportation
Riverside offers excellent healthcare access for seniors through major facilities including Riverside Community Hospital, Parkview Community Hospital Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center. The city is also within reasonable distance of Loma Linda University Medical Center, a renowned regional healthcare provider. Transportation options include Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) buses with reduced senior fares, Dial-A-Ride paratransit services for those with mobility limitations, and specialized medical transportation providers. While Riverside is primarily car-dependent, many senior communities offer scheduled transportation to medical appointments and shopping destinations, enhancing mobility for non-drivers.
Activities & Recreation Near Riverside
Riverside offers seniors abundant cultural and recreational opportunities, anchored by the historic Mission Inn Hotel with its festivals and tours. The Riverside Metropolitan Museum, UCR Botanic Gardens, and Fox Performing Arts Center provide enriching cultural experiences. Mount Rubidoux Park offers accessible trails with panoramic views, while Fairmount Park features senior-friendly walking paths and picnic areas. The city hosts farmers markets, the Riverside Festival of Lights, and numerous senior center programs promoting active aging and social connection.
Weather & Climate in Riverside
Riverside features a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, averaging over 280 days of sunshine annually. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F from June through September, requiring air conditioning and heat precautions for seniors. Winters are comfortable with daytime highs in the 60s-70s and minimal rainfall, making year-round outdoor activities feasible and beneficial for senior health and mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living in Riverside
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