How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in California?
The average cost of assisted living in California is $5,529/mo ($66,348/yr), which is 15.0% above the national average.
Monthly Cost
$5,529/mo
Annual Cost
$66,348/yr
National Average
$4,807/mo
Cost by City
| City | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $5,500/mo | $66,000/yr | -0.5% |
| San Francisco | $6,800/mo | $81,600/yr | +23.0% |
| San Diego | $5,400/mo | $64,800/yr | -2.3% |
Nearby States
Medicaid Coverage — California
Medicaid accepted in this state California accepts Medicaid for assisted living services.
- Medicaid eligibility requirements vary — income and asset limits apply.
- Many states offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs.
- Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for application assistance.
How to Save
- 1. Ask for the cash/self-pay price — often 40-60% less than the billed price.
- 2. Compare prices between hospitals and freestanding centers.
- 3. Check if your insurance covers the procedure and what your copay will be.
- 4. Ask about payment plans or financial assistance programs.
- 5. Consider nearby states — prices can vary significantly across state lines.
Data sourced from Genworth/CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025. Last updated: 2026-03-01. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.