Liz S
Feb 2026
Services and quality of food has plummeted, while prices keep rising. Since being sold to venture capitalists-very disappointing decline since my relative first moved in 5 years ago.
Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria
1220 Suey Road
4.2(38 ratings)· Santa Maria average: 4.3
1 / 5Quick Facts
- Total units
- 330
- Licensed capacity
- 330 residents
- Licensed operator
- Mg At Santa Maria, LP
- Nearby hospital
- Located near Marian Regional Medical Center
- Ownership change
- Sold to private investment ownership, per reviewer
- Rent trend
- Annual rent increases around 10%, per reviews
- Care reassessment process
- Care level raised without signature or approval, per report
California CDSS
What Families Think
Reviews of Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria are mixed but lean positive, with many families praising the food, activities, and attentive staff for their loved ones. However, several reviewers raised concerns about rising costs and how care-level increases have been handled, especially after a reported ownership change.
The Good
- Friendly, attentive staff frequently praised by families
- Food and activities called "top notch" by reviewers
- Large private apartments with patios or balconies
- Close to shopping, dining, and medical care
- Clean, hotel-like common areas noted by reviewers
The Bad
- Rent has increased roughly 10% annually per reviewers
- One report of care level raised without physician signature or approval
- One reviewer described declining food and service after ownership sale
- Cost increases tied to dementia diagnosis caused financial strain for one family
AI-generated from reviews and community data.
About Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria
Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria is an independent and assisted living community located in northeast Santa Maria, California. The community offers residents the freedom to maintain an independent lifestyle while providing access to assisted living services, with support tailored to individual needs.
The community features thoughtfully designed amenities and spaces including a theater, library, bistro, and well-appointed common areas. Residents enjoy large private apartments with appealing features and finishes, along with options for private patios or balconies. An Active Living Program Director manages a full calendar of enriching activities and events designed around resident interests, ensuring there is something for everyone.
The location places residents close to central Santa Maria's variety of stores, entertainment options, parks, shopping, and dining. Top-notch medical facilities like Marian Regional Medical Center are nearby and easily accessible. The community emphasizes its modern yet intimate character, with stunning landscapes and a vibrant suburban setting that supports an active California lifestyle.
Inside and out, Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria was designed to accommodate independence and activity. The community provides services including cooking, cleaning, and yard work, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their lifestyle. Common areas and outdoor spaces like the community courtyard encourage socializing and connection among residents.
Types of Care
Assisted Living
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Help Me ChooseReviews
4.2overall · 38 ratings combined
4.2★ on Google (38)
Michelle Figueroa
Dec 2025
I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with Merrill Gardens of Santa Maria. They take wonderful care of my mother! My family and I couldn’t be happier with the level of attentiveness, cleanliness, hospitality, and of course the food! Danny was a huge support in making this happen, and of course Debra! We love Merrill Gardens! It’s just like a hotel!
mark zekanis
Nov 2025
My dad has been a resident of Merrill Gardens for the last four years. His rent has gone up every year at least 10% recently he was diagnosed with dementia. The nurse there Deborah Gonzales did not even assess him, but looked at the doctors paperwork only and raised his level of care with no signature and no approval. His care has gone up over $1000 a month in the last three months. I can no longer afford to keep my father there and have to find another place to put him. I’m very disappointed with this corporate attitude that Merrill Gardens has.
Jo-Ann
Sep 2024
My 102 years young mother has lived at Merrill Gardens in Santa Maria, CA. I have nothing but praise for them. It is an amazing place to have a family member living there. It starts with upper management, staff and the residents. They all treat each other with respect and care. There are lots of activities for everyone. On holidays the staff make it special for all the resident. My mother is love it there. I am constantly recommending this place to friends and strangers. Jo-Ann
Jana Saputo
Nov 2022
Merrill Gardens is exactly where my 87 year old mom wanted and needed to be! She moved into her one bedroom apartment back in August of 2022 and she has been very happy. The food and activities are top notch and she has met so many wonderful friends. From the day we walked in and met Cheryl, everything has gone very smoothly. My mom really enjoys her roomy apartment, her outdoor balcony and the convenience of being so close to everything. The staff is super friendly and always there to answer any questions or concerns. Merrill Gardens definitely deserves 5 Stars and a Special Thank You to Cheryl for everything you’ve done for my Mom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of care does Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria offer?
Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria offers Assisted Living.
Where is Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria located?
Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria is located at 1220 Suey Road in Santa Maria, California.
What do families say about Merrill Gardens At Santa Maria?
Reviews of Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria are mixed but lean positive, with many families praising the food, activities, and attentive staff for their loved ones. However, several reviewers raised concerns about rising costs and how care-level increases have been handled, especially after a reported ownership change.
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