California · CMS Data August 2026
Highest-Rated Nursing Homes in California
Where Are the Highest-Rated Nursing Homes in California?
CMS Care Compare lists 502 nursing homes rated 4 or 5 stars overall by CMS in California, out of 1,165 certified nursing homes (data from August 2026). The most are in Los Angeles (17), San Francisco (14) and San Diego (13). 273 hold the top rating of 5 stars.
- Matching homes
- 502
- All homes in California
- 1,165
- Rated 4 or 5 stars
- 502
- Average overall stars
- 4.5
How this list is made: CMS's overall star rating is 4 or 5 (out of 5). The overall rating combines health inspections, staffing and quality measures. Homes are ordered by CMS's overall rating, then its inspection rating.
- 2735 stars overall
- 3624+ stars for inspections
- 2964+ stars for staffing
- 393No fines or payment denials
- 333Antipsychotic use below the national median
- 84Nonprofit
The Top 40 by CMS Rating
Stars are out of 5; blank cells are ratings CMS doesn't report for that home. Every matching home is on its city page, linked below.
Matching Homes by City
More About This List
Read how CMS star ratings work. For assisted living and memory care rules, Medicaid limits and the ombudsman, see senior care in California. For local services, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Other lists for California: nursing homes that accept medicaid in California, nonprofit nursing homes in California, nursing homes with low antipsychotic use in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Highest-Rated Nursing Homes Are in California?
502 of the 1,165 CMS-certified nursing homes in California meet this rule: CMS's overall star rating is 4 or 5 (out of 5). The overall rating combines health inspections, staffing and quality measures.
Which Highest-Rated Nursing Home in California Rates Highest?
By CMS's overall rating, then its inspection rating, Alameda County Medical Center D/P SNF in San Leandro (5 stars), Apple Valley Care Center in Apple Valley (5 stars) and Arroyo Grande Care Center in Arroyo Grande (5 stars) rank highest. Visit and check the latest inspection report before you decide.
How Do You Check a Nursing Home in California?
Read its Care Compare page for the full inspection reports, visit at different times, and ask about staffing and openings. California's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program can answer questions about residents' rights.