San Diego Independent Living

The median cost of independent living in San Diego for a single-occupancy apartment is $3,784/month (SeniorHomes.com - 2015). This monthly cost typically includes rent, utilities, dining, housekeeping and transportation.

San Diego, a coastal city located on the Pacific Ocean, is the second largest city in the state of California and the eighth largest in the United States. It is located just over the border with Mexico and is known as the birthplace of California. With a population of 1,322,553, according to 2012 population estimates, San Diego independent living communities as a place to retire are popular for a number of reasons. These include the city’s climate that is mild year round, a plethora of activities and the area’s extensive beaches. In 1542, Juan Cabrillo laid claim to the area for Spain, though the Kumeyaay people were the first group of people to settle there. In 1769, the first European settlers reached San Diego, and in 1821, the city became part of Mexico, which had recently gained its independence. With the admission of California to the United States in 1850 as a result of the Mexican-American War, the city became part of that country as well.

Attractions in the City

Home to many attractions, San Diego is a city that truly offers something for everyone. Those retirees that live in San Diego independent living communities and who enjoy culture will be pleased with the offerings. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego offers two convenient locations: one in La Jolla and a branch in the downtown area of Santa Fe Depot. Located in Balboa Park are several museums including the San Diego Museum of Man, the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Museum of Photographic Arts. The Old Globe Theatre is also located there. For sporting fans, the city offers a host of options including the professional football team, the San Diego Chargers and the professional baseball team the San Diego Padres. Shopping opportunities abound. Fashion Valley Center offers upscale stores that are well known as well as a multiplex for relaxation after a shopping trip. An outdoor mall, located in Westfield, the Westfield University Town Center, offers top shopping destinations as well as a skating rink.

Senior Activities in the Area

Through the city’s Park and Recreation Department, residents of San Diego retirement living communities can enjoy a range of different activities and services. These are designed to enhance the safety, health and security of seniors. With a senior citizen services center office located in the city administration building, eleven community senior center locations scattered conveniently throughout the city, special events and a senior lounge located in Balboa Park and services such as free legal assistance, dances and trips. These Park and Recreation Department program’s give seniors many opportunities to relax, socialize and gain more opportunities for a fulfilling life.

Top Medical Facilities

Seniors residing in San Diego independent living communities will be pleased to know they are located close to top medical facilities in the area. UCSD Medical Center is a 531 bed teaching hospital that is ranked highly in four areas that can be of great importance to seniors. These include geriatrics, pulmonology, urology and nephrology. Scripps La Jolla Hospitals and Clinics is a 344 bed hospital that performed more than 11,000 surgeries in the most recent year statistics were reported. With high marks in cardiology, heart surgery, urology, geriatrics, neurology and neurosurgery, this facility has a great deal to offer people living in the area.

Public Transportation in the City

Metro Transportation Services provides public transportation options, including light rail and bus, to the people within the city. Residents of San Diego independent living communities can enjoy three lines of light rail service with 53 stations located throughout the city. Buses run 89 fixed routes for the convenience of residents and visitors alike.

San Diego is a energetic city that offers a pleasant climate year round, plenty of engaging activities for people of all ages and a number of convenient options that can be utilized to move about the city. Top notch medical care and senior services make this southern California city an ideal location in which to enjoy retirement.