Fairwinds – River’s Edge Named Best Independent Living by U.S. News & World Report

Apr 16, Alissa Sauer

For decades, U.S. News & World Report has been a trusted name in ranking everything from hospitals and colleges to cars and mutual funds. Now in its fourth consecutive year, their Best Senior Living ratings are helping older adults and their families identify top-tier senior living communities across the country.

We’re proud to announce that Fairwinds – River’s Edge has been named among the Best Senior Living Communities in the nation—recognized in 2025 as Best Independent Living. This recognition means so much to us because it’s based on what matters most: the voices of our residents and their families.

Take a closer look at the methodology of the rankings and see how we stacked up!

U.S. News and World Report Best Senior Living Awards

Today’s older adults are redefining what retirement looks like. Senior living is no longer a final step—it’s a fresh start, full of purpose, independence, and connection. At Fairwinds – River’s Edge, we’re proud to be part of this movement, offering services and care that protect privacy, promote dignity, and encourage joyful living. That’s exactly what U.S. News & World Report set out to measure in its 2025 Best Senior Living Awards.

“U.S. News provides in-depth information on multiple community types to help potential residents and their families find, in consultation with their doctors as needed, the best place to help meet their needs,” said Zach Adams, senior health data engineer at U.S. News. “Communities that are highly rated excel in making residents feel safe, well cared for, and highly satisfied by the services provided.”

Their in-depth survey collected feedback from over 200,000 residents and family members across nearly 4,000 communities nationwide between March 2024 and February 2025.

The survey covered key factors like:

• The kindness and professionalism of the staff
• Quality and enjoyment of food and dining
• Engagement through activities and programs
• Responsiveness of caregivers and team members
• Safety, respect, and a sense of community

Fairwinds – River’s Edge Exceeds Expectations

According to this year’s survey results, Fairwinds – River’s Edge stands out in nearly every category:

• 97% said the food and beverage staff are friendly
• 97% said they feel safe in our community
• 91% said programs and activities of interest to me are available, or they feel empowered to create their own
• 90% said they are satisfied with the business office

But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our residents and families had to say:

“I’m very happy to have found Fairwinds – Rivers Edge to move to. The staff is wonderful and there are enough residents to find many new friends to spend time with. Everyone has a life story, and it’s so interesting to hear them and get acquainted.”

“I have lived here for 3+ years. It has always felt like home. There is transportation to my doctor appointments. I can do my own cooking and baking when I feel like it. I love it here.”

“I am very satisfied with this adventure of my life, and much of my satisfaction is due to my experience here at Fairwinds – River Edge.”

“This is the best place on earth for our age group. After eight years my mind hasn’t changed.”

“I’m happy here and feel I made the right decision making this my home.”

“We enjoy Fairwinds and our life here. We have a caring staff and wonderful friends. We highly recommend it!”

“If you need to be in a facility like Fairwinds I don’t believe any other one would be better.”

“We did not consider Fairwinds because it was not close to our home but this was suggested to us. We came, we saw, and we moved in!”

Experience the Best of Senior Living in 2025

At Fairwinds – River’s Edge, we believe that senior living should feel like home—but better. Our personalized approach, vibrant lifestyle offerings, and compassionate care set us apart—and now we have the award to prove it. We invite you to experience the difference at Fairwinds – River’s Edge! See firsthand why we’ve been recognized as Best Independent Living by U.S. News and World Report. Contact us today to schedule a tour!