Montecedro has 1 serious state citation and 1 verified complaint across 6 inspections since 2023, the same year the facility underwent a change of ownership. The citation and verified complaint stem from a January 2025 wildfire evacuation during which 2 residents were unaccounted for after staff completed roll call at the emergency shelter: 1 resident was later found in their room inside the facility, and another was found outside walking their dog, unaware an evacuation had been ordered. The investigation found that annual emergency disaster training had been provided only to administrative staff and managers, and that most administrative personnel left the facility at the start of the wind event. A February 2026 inspection examined an allegation that a resident sustained a fracture due to staff neglect; staff, other residents, and the resident's family reported no fall or incident, and facility records did not support the allegation.
Montecedro is a 300-bed nonprofit Life Plan Community on a secure, gated 8-acre property in Altadena, operated by Episcopal Communities & Services. Surrounded by the San Gabriel Mountains, the community targets active seniors aged 62+ with a luxury lifestyle that includes customizable apartments, multiple dining venues, a performing arts space, art studios, and a fitness center.
Montecedro's signature is its Creative Living program — an approach to senior lifestyle emphasizing daily opportunities for purpose, fulfillment, and continuous learning. Licensed since 2023, it also offers a full continuum of care including assisted living.
Creative Living program drives the culture
Not a generic activity calendar — Creative Living is a structured lifestyle philosophy offering daily opportunities for meaningful engagement, artistic pursuits, and continuous learning. Visit and ask to see the Creative Living schedule to judge whether it delivers substance or just branding.
Nonprofit operator with a mission beyond profit
Operated by Episcopal Communities & Services, a nonprofit. No shareholders demanding returns. The financial model is oriented toward resident welfare and long-term community sustainability rather than quarterly earnings.
Secure, gated 8-acre campus with mountain views
The gated property provides security while the 8-acre scale offers gardens, courtyards, and mountain views. The Altadena location gives easy access to hiking, cafes, and the boutiques of Old Pasadena. Natural beauty isn't just visible — it's accessible.
Customizable apartments and multiple dining venues
Residences can be customized to personal preferences, and dining spans casual to fine options. The ability to make your space your own and choose different dining experiences daily adds meaningful variety to community living.
Only 2 years of operation
Licensed in July 2023, Montecedro is still a young community despite the polished brand. Two years is not enough to establish long-term patterns. Ask about resident satisfaction trends, staff retention, and how the community has evolved since opening.
300 beds is a large-scale luxury operation
Even with premium amenities and a nonprofit mission, 300 beds means a substantial community. Dining rooms, hallways, and common areas will be busy. Visit to determine whether the scale feels like a resort or a hotel.
Life Plan Community means a significant financial commitment
As a Life Plan Community, Montecedro likely requires an entrance fee and monthly costs. This is a different financial model than month-to-month rental. Understand the contract type, refund policies, and what the buy-in covers before investing time in the process.
Est. starting from $4,000/mo
Pricing is estimated, please contact the facility to confirm.
Pricing is estimated, please contact the facility to confirm.
2212 El Molino Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Get directionsLicense data from the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. View full state record
Claim your listing to verify pricing, add real photos, and respond to your FYI Safety Score™.
Claim this listing$4,000/mo
starting