Assisted Living Cost in San Diego
The average cost of assisted living in San Diego is $5,200/month in 2026. This guide covers room-type pricing, how San Diego compares to the national average, Medicaid coverage through Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver (ALW), and the most affordable alternatives in the area.
San Diego Assisted Living Costs at a Glance
Average (all types)
$5,200
per month
Memory Care
$7,000
per month
Skilled Nursing
$11,500
per month
Cost by Room Type in San Diego (2026)
| Room Type | Monthly Cost | Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / Shared | $4,100 | $137 |
| 1-Bedroom | $5,600 | $187 |
| 2-Bedroom / Deluxe | $7,200 | $240 |
| Memory Care | $7,000 | $233 |
| Skilled Nursing (semi-priv.) | $11,500 | $383 |
* Costs are 2026 market averages. Actual fees vary by facility, level of care, and unit size.
How San Diego Compares
San Diego
$5,200/mo
California Avg
$5,250/mo
Near avgNational Avg
$4,500/mo
16% above avgWhy Does Assisted Living Cost $5,200/Month in San Diego?
- San Diego is just below the California state average but significantly above national average
- Military and VA presence (32nd Street Naval Station, Camp Pendleton) creates a veteran-focused senior market
- Coastal communities (La Jolla, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe) command extreme premiums
- Strong RCFE supply in East San Diego, El Cajon, and National City moderates overall averages
Medicaid Coverage for Assisted Living in San Diego
Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) covers assisted living
San Diego County participates in the Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver (ALW). IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) is also available. PACE programs: SCAN Health Plan and ElderCenter operate PACE in San Diego. Contact San Diego County Aging and Independence Services at 800-339-4661.
California Medicaid Guide →How to Afford Assisted Living in San Diego
- El Cajon, Santee, and National City communities average 15–25% below La Jolla and Rancho Santa Fe
- Medi-Cal ALW covers assisted living in San Diego County — contact County AIS at 800-339-4661
- San Diego VA Medical Center is a major VA hub — large veteran community with Aid & Attendance access
- PACE programs (SCAN, ElderCenter PACE) serve dual-eligible San Diego seniors at no cost
- Chula Vista and National City often have the most affordable licensed RCFEs in the county
Find Assisted Living Communities in San Diego
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More Affordable Alternatives Near San Diego
If San Diego costs are too high, these nearby cities offer lower averages and similar access to family, healthcare, and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions — Assisted Living in San Diego
What is the average cost of assisted living in San Diego, California?▾
The average cost of assisted living in San Diego is approximately $5,200 per month in 2026, just below the California state average of $5,250/month. Costs range from $3,400/month for a basic studio in East County to $8,500+/month in La Jolla or Del Mar coastal communities.
Does Medi-Cal cover assisted living in San Diego?▾
Yes — San Diego County participates in the Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver (ALW). Income limit: $2,742/month. Asset limit: $2,000. IHSS also provides extensive in-home care hours. PACE programs (SCAN Health Plan PACE, ElderCenter PACE) provide all-inclusive care for dual-eligible seniors. Contact San Diego County Aging and Independence Services at 800-339-4661.
Are there VA assisted living options in San Diego?▾
San Diego has one of the largest military retiree populations in the country. The San Diego VA Medical Center (858-552-8585) is a full-service facility and major Aid & Attendance resource. The VA's Community Living Centers (CLCs) provide nursing home level care. VA-contracted community care through MISSION Act can also connect veterans to private assisted living with VA payment.
What are the most affordable neighborhoods for assisted living in San Diego?▾
Most affordable in San Diego County: National City ($3,800/month avg), Chula Vista ($4,200/month), El Cajon ($4,000/month), and Santee ($4,100/month). La Mesa and Spring Valley are mid-range. La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, and Coronado are the most expensive ($7,000–$10,000+/month for comparable facilities).
How much does memory care cost in San Diego?▾
Memory care in San Diego averages $7,000 per month in 2026, ranging from $5,200 in East County to $10,000+ in coastal communities. Medi-Cal ALW can cover memory care costs for eligible seniors.
How do I verify an RCFE license in San Diego?▾
Search California CDSS Community Care Licensing at ccld.ca.gov. For San Diego County complaints and inspections, contact the CDSS CCLD San Diego district office at 619-767-2200. The site shows current license status, capacity, special conditions, and any substantiated violations for every licensed RCFE in California.
Looking for statewide data?
See the full California assisted living cost guide, Medicaid eligibility, and facility directory.
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