Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill

July 2026

Google

Daniel Mcnulty

Merrill Gardens Bankers Hill (MGBH) is a wonderful senior living place. One of my dinner pals is Joyce and she is 99! The meals are great and so are the people. You need to visit to see and confirm my statement. Residents, Staff, Servers, and Caregivers treat each other with respect. I have lived here for almost 3 years. Dan McNulty

May 2026

Google

Hasan Ali

As the owner of ComForCare Home Care San Diego & La Jolla, I have had the pleasure of visiting Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill on multiple occasions to host resident engagement events including Jeopardy trivia and other fun programming. Every single time, the experience has been warm, welcoming, and well organized. I want to specifically acknowledge Dayna Farris, the Community Relations Director. Dayna is the kind of professional who makes collaboration effortless. She is responsive, genuinely cares about the residents, and goes out of her way to make sure events run smoothly. It is clear she takes real pride in the community she helps lead. Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill is a beautiful property and the staff reflects the same level of care and attention you see in the building itself. If you are looking for a senior living community in the Bankers Hill area of San Diego that truly prioritizes the wellbeing and engagement of its residents, this is a place worth serious consideration. Hasan Ali, President, ComForCare Home Care San Diego & La Jolla

February 2026

Google

Jeffrey B

January 2026

Google

Brock ALLEN (Brock)

We've been here for 2.5 years and love it. It's a homey and neighborly place. The staff are absolutely wonderful: kind, attentive, and appreciative of each other. The new Senior Manager, Jill Johnson, is a genuine people person, top-notch communicator, and experienced administrator. The common areas have been refreshed and the 4th floor patio is due for a million dollar refresh and extension. The food is great and varied. I'm a vegetarian (some fish) and I find it very easy to work with the offerings and menus. Aaron, the Executive Chef, is very effective and responsive. He ought to receive an award for the spectacular improvements he has made in the menus and the availability of healthy options while preserving traditional "comfort food" options. Being blocks away from Balboa Park is great: miles of trails for walking and hiking. The tours and events are first class. The residents are varied but the overall ambience is positive and caring. We've made many friends here and people are generally good humored, honest, and authentic.

January 2026

Google

Raffa

January 2026

Google

Joyce Disraeli

The food is good. The help is nice. I don’t like the raise in rent.

January 2026

Google

J Beck

I’ve lived at Merrill Gardens for the past seven years. I’m very happy here the ability to feel 100%!! They have fun activities, social events and the food is outstanding!!! Come join us

January 2026

Google

Hortensia Mullally

My husband and I moved in here six months ago and we’re giving it five stars because we’re so happy with the community. The apartments are very pretty. Everyone is very nice and the food is very good. We love the convenience of the location!!

January 2026

Google

Barbara Allen

My husband and I visited many senior residences in San Diego County several years in advance of our careful decision to choose Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill "when the time came". It is clear that our grown children are grateful for our leadership in the important adventure that would ultimately include and support them and their children. When friends ask what living in Merrill Gardens is like, after I report the key life-lifting features, they usually nod their heads in understanding when I respond "It's a combination of magical ocean cruise and best-ever summer camp." The success of the Merrill Gardens corporation is based on sound understanding of the importance of balancing expected needs and bonus blessings related to aging. All levels of staff are clearly well-matched to the mission as well as generous in all manner of commitment to meet needs of residents and maintain respectful support to fellow staff members.

January 2026

Google

Gary Uhl

Everyone on staff was helpful. Phyllis Pilgrim made a special request to the kitchen so that we could enjoy tea together. They made it totally possible.

December 2025

Google

Phyllis Pryor

Clean, friendly and a feel of security even for incoming caregivers like me.

June 2025

Google

Luke Scott

Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill is a special place with special people. Rarely do you see a community managed by employees so driven to take care of their residents. Lori does a fantastic job making sure everyone has what they need and loves her community like her family. I'm so impressed with MG and can't recommend it enough!

April 2025

Google

Jeff Chapman

Merril Gardens has made all of my clients very happy. It's a beautiful location with outstanding care, amazing service, and delicious food.

March 2025

Google

Terry D

Our Mom is thriving at Merrill Gardens Bankers Hill, thanks in large part to the amazing staff. Kudos.

March 2025

Google

Linda Hart

After visiting many assisted living facilities, my mother chose Merrill Gardens, Bankers Hill, and was there for five years. The manager there, Lori Hansen, is extraordinary. It's not just me saying that - she has many "Best of the Year" awards on her wall, for good reason. She screens and hand picks each staff member carefully, for competence and caring, then continues to maintain a community environment founded on mutual respect, appreciation, and high standards of care. Because of this, residents are treated very well by staff members who feel appreciated and care about their work. My mother was always wanting me to write letters of appreciation about different caregivers. Even the night personnel were notably particularly loving and cheerful with her. For example, one time my mother thought that she had hung up the phone when a caregiver came to help her, but she hadn't. She hadn't been there long, so I stayed on the line, to monitor what care she was getting. I was beyond pleased when the caregiver came in and cheerfully greeted her and encouraged conversation with her. There was no hint of a rush to get in and out, but rather a focus on a comfortable, pleasant, caring, cheery interaction with my mother. Over time she truly felt loved which meant so much to my brother and I. And I must also mention how wonderful it is that the residents can eat from an extensive menu that changes daily, anytime all day long. The chef there, Aaron, is incredibly dedicated to high standards and is "above and beyond" accommodating. He even solicits the residents for favorite recipes of theirs that he can make for them! Each meal is individually prepared to the resident's liking. Some residents like to hang out in the cafeteria area, talking over coffee and dessert for hours, and that is fine. If a resident sits at a table alone, she/he can expect that another resident will likely come over and ask if she/he would like company, because it is a very friendly, supportive community. It is an understatement to say that Lori goes all out on all the holidays with props and special guests! At a western-themed holiday last year, she even brought in a horse! I don't know if you can find a youtube of that event on the internet, but if you can, be prepared to LOL! Many of the staff became dear to us and I strive to stay in touch with them. They are special, loving, deserving souls who made my mother's final years some of her best. I could never thank them enough.

January 2025

Google

Steven Beeman

My mother-in law has lived at Merrill Gardens for the past 3 years, and based on her experience, we can very strongly recommend it. While the apartments and common spaces are very nice, clean and very well maintained, it's the staff that continues to positively surprise us. Their genuine concern for the residents is unlike anything I've seen at any other senior residence. They combine professionalism with a sense of real warmth. Even during the covid pandemic, when senior centers were under terrific stress, they found ways to keep their residents safe and comfortable. Really impressive!

January 2025

Google

Anthony Colark

I'm a frequent visitor to Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill. As a health care professional and a retired employee of a State Agency that regulates health care facilities, I can honestly say Merrill Gardens is without doubt an exceptional facility. I firmly believe their excellence in the provision of care and services is largely due to the outstanding leadership abilities of their General Manager coupled with the commitment to excellence of her very capable and dedicated staff. There's a reasonable expectation that the day will come when I will need the services of a multifunctional senior living facility. When that day arrives I will not hesitate to relocate to Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill.

October 2024

Google

Leland Atkinson

My mother is a Merrill Garden (MG) resident. She moved there, with some personal reservations in March 2022, having lived in her home for almost 50 years. She was immediately embraced by the MG community and she knew she had found her forever-home. From that point the experience only continued to blossom as Mom came to know the residents and the MG staff. Everybody, from the front desk staff, the dining room staff, the cleaning staff, the medical staff, the maintenance staff, and all the activity staff were always encouraging Mom to enjoy her new life at MG and encouraging her to participate in activities. It was the perfect transition for her and for us--we wished we had done it sooner; not to get rid of her, but to get her integrated into a community that was helping her enjoy the best of her final years. Mom was recently recognized at an MG all-hands staff meeting as a guest to received a poster designating her as MG's "Most Spirited Resident" for MG's Spirit Week, honoring her dressing each day in-theme for Spirit Days--Bad Hair Day, Western Day, Sports Day, Decade Day, and Tropical Day. Mom enjoyed the number of staff members that introduced themselves to her and complimented her attire, then took a picture of themselves with Mom. You have to realize that Mom is 102-1/2 years old and still loving her new life, and family, at Merrill Gardens. I give you all a warm thank you for all you have done, and continue to do, to make Mom an important part of your community. You all are family to her and therefore family to us.

July 2024

Google

Bob Davis

An enterprise that continuously celebrates Quality of Life in all regards for its senior residents. Highly skilled, extraordinarily caring Care Givers and Management. Super comfortable setting and innumerable conveniences! Could not be better!

March 2024

Google

A

Merrill Gardens is a nice place with mostly kind staff. The food is fine but could use a better presentation and more variety. Front desk is empty after 7pm which seems too early especially when it’s still light outside. ADL’s ie. serviced not included are all available but be aware they can really get very expensive every month. General manager is a gem.

February 2024

Google

Patricia Atkinson

I am breaking my no-review policy to review Merrill Gardens because I want to acknowledge their excellence. My mother has been a resident for about two years and began her stay in Independent Living. I appreciate Merrill Gardens for the many and varied social activities, the appealing food offerings, as well as the caring staff and genial residents. The facility is clean and welcoming. Merrill Gardens makes a point to celebrate holidays and special events in grand style. Their decorations are amazing, and special food is prepared to match the holiday being celebrated. Staff is attentive and responsive to the needs of their residents. Recently my mother has needed Assisted Living care. She has told me that the staff is very good to her. She really appreciates their cheerfulness and willingness to help. I feel great comfort in knowing that she is being so well cared for. Lori Hansen, the General Manager does an excellent job of managing the facility. Without hesitation, I recommend Merrill Gardens for Independent Living as well as Assisted Living.

February 2024

Google

Brent

Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill is truly an amazing place. I moved my 89 year old mother there in June. She was living alone and independent but I wanted her to be with other people, participate in games, art classes, events, field trips, etc. The facility is like a resort. The food is extremely good, there are lots of nice bright open areas to relax, listen to the piano or read a book in the library or go up to the garden overlooking San Diego bay. Lori, the director, is the nicest person you’ll ever meet. She treats all her residents as family. All of the staff truly cares about everyone there. Soon after moving in she fractured a vertebrae in her back and had to have a surgical procedure. I was out of the country so Lori went to the ER and stayed with her. After she returned from the hospital my mother needed full assistance for a couple of weeks while she recovered. Their care staff are absolutely the best in every way. They brought her meals, helped her eat, bathed her, gave her all her medications 3-4 times a day and kept me updated. Physical therapist came in to her apartment and worked with her regularly until she was better. Soon she was better and enjoying all the amenities at Merrill Gardens. Unfortunately after only 6 months she fell and suffered a severe head injury. After spending 9 weeks in hospitals and rehabs she passed away but we were able to get her back to her apartment for her last week on hospice. Again the care staff were outstanding. They worked with hospice to make sure she was comfortable as possible. We couldn’t recommend Merrill Gardens enough. Lori, Lupe, Alicia, and all the other staff are so nice and caring. Thank you.

September 2023

Google

Amy Quirino

On behalf of SYNERGY HomeCare of Central San Diego we just want to thank Dawn Breisch for contributing to our up and coming sim lab with the kind medical equipment donation. We are so thankful and we enjoy the ongoing partnership with you and your community! Thanks for all you do.

November 2022

Google

Charles Tamburo

We relocated our Mom about 4 years ago from her lifetime home in New Orleans to Merrill Gardens Bankers Hill, as my sister and I both live in Southern California. Moving from her home of more than 90 years would seem like a challenging transition, but Lori and her team at MG were so welcoming that Mom immediately felt at home. The facility is impeccably designed and maintained, with numerous open spaces, balconies, and patios. Most importantly, the staff is always helpful, pleasant, and compassionate. There are numerous activities for the residents, from daily movies, lectures, and parties. The dining room is open all day with food to order as you like. Mom is now 96 and requires additional assistance. The Care Director has been very helpful in developing her care plan, which has been critical in maintaining Mom's quality of life. Merrill Gardens is a family owned business, and the family values shine brightly at Bakers Hill. Should you be looking for a home for your loved one, you owe it to yourself to visit.

August 2022

Google

Kristen Medina

BEST company to exist. Lori and Dayna are one of the sweetest and compassionate people I have ever met. Their sincere and genuine care for their residents is what makes Merrill Gardens a business of value. Wonderful people, would recommend everyone I know. Thank you, thank you for everything.

February 2022

Google

Leanne Ripperger

I can't say enough about Merrill Gardens Bankers Hill. Everyone....starting with the Director Lori who sets the example of a caring approach to everyone. My Mom has lived and thrived there for over three years. The staff go above and beyond to make all residents feel safe and special.

February 2022

Google

Mark Ripperger

I have found that the staff are caring and take the time and effort to provide quality care, which is individualized to each resident. The atmosphere is homey and comfortable for family. During the pandemic which has been challenging the staff took special care to make sure that residents were safe and cared for.

February 2022

Google

Lora allen

I would like to let everyone know about my home at Merrill Gardens. We have the most incredible director which leads an unbelievable caring staff. They continuously go above and beyond showing how much they care for all the residents. When I inquired of a resident prior to move in about the director they said she is the best we have had. I have been here going on four years and the care and food etc has remained at the same level. She makes it very evident that she loves her job and I truly feel at home. Thanks to her and her staff. '

February 2022

Google

Mark Reynolds

The entire staff could not be better! My dad recently moved in and everything has been perfect!

January 2022

Google

Amy Lockwood

I can't say enough wonderful things about Merrill Gardens! My dad moved in when it because clear he could no longer live alone. During the isolation of Covid he became lonely, he was not eating well and he needed to stop driving. At Merrill Gardens, he immediately made friends to dine with in the warm and inviting atmosphere. He was thrilled with the food, the beautiful facilites and his apartment was the perfect size for him. The staff could not have been more patient, kind and respectful. They always seem to know how each of the residents is doing and it just feels like a big extended family. I always felt like someone was there if he ever needed help or just someone to talk with. One of my dad's favorite activities was to go up on the roof every day to enjoy the view and watch the planes land. This place is amazing.

January 2022

Google

Joanna Pearson

My family visited many retirement communities in the San Diego area and Merrill Gardens was our #1 choice. My parents moved in 7 months ago and are so very happy there. The staff is extremely kind, thoughtful and caring and you can tell they truly do care about the residents' well being. There's lots of activities and celebrations and the food is absolutely delicious. Led by the manager Lori, everyone I've met on staff has gone above and beyond to make my parents feel safe, respected and comfortable. Merrill Gardens is an amazing place to live and I highly recommend it - you need to look no further!

April 2021

Google

linda

January 2021

Google

Julie Auger

There take such good care of my mom. She's always busy doing something, playing cards, taking a music lesson, etc

December 2020

Google

Larry Calder

It is with great pleasure that I write this 5 STAR review!!! Ten months ago, after extensive research of all the assisted living facilities in SD County, just before San Diego went into its 1st lockdown, I moved my 94 year old uncle into Merrill Gardens. We have been so pleased, on so many points!!! Of course the sales process was simple and professional. But, the proof is in the pudding. Lori, the General Manager, and her staff have been so thoughtful, caring, outgoing and proactive in safeguarding the residents, while providing a nourishing and happy environment during this terrible pandemic. There have been ZERO incidents of any COVID virus among the residents and staff!! While there wasn’t any visitation during the first 90-120 days of the lockdown, they since have instituted strict protocols and measures to insure the continued safety and well-being of all who live or work/visit the facility. For a while, all meals were brought to the individual resident’s unit. Now, all meals are again served in the dining room. The Executive Chef is most accommodating to provide the special foods and diets that residents crave. My uncle has gained weight from all the good food. There are limited activities during this time, but a fair amount of sociability provides a good diversion for the residents. I am so relieved that my uncle is here. If I had to be somewhere when I’m his age, this is the kind of place where I would want to be.

December 2020

Google

Marisela Delosrios

May 2019

Google

Tami Head

It has been almost a year since my stepmom moved into Merrill Gardens and we are so very pleased with the beautiful atmosphere and extremely friendly staff. Lori Hansen, the GM is amazing. She is such a caring person and she and her entire staff truly look out for all the residents as if they were their own family. I could not imagine a more caring environment. There are so many activities and lovely meals. It's truly a wonderful place to live, when some extra care is needed and living alone is not an option for loved ones. It's safe, pretty, friendly, professional and the rooftop deck is fantastic! We consider the staff like our family, as they look out for our sweet stepmom on a daily basis. Thank you, everyone, for all the blessing that you give.

May 2019

Google

Sue Cox

My mother moved into Merrill Gardens nearly 2 years ago......not quite kicking and screaming, but with a great deal of trepidation. Within days she was happy about the move and now can't imagine being anywhere else. She was lonely living alone and at Merrill Gardens she never has to be unless she wants to be. She participates in the daily exercise classes, plays bridge, bingo and wii bowling several times a week. She can eat from a menu that varies daily and has gained a much needed 10 pounds on quality fresh cooked meals. On top of her being very happy there, I'm very happy knowing she has companionship and excellent care should she need it.

May 2019

Google

Antonio Pena

I will recommend Merril Gardens for people who are looking for a place to retire. You can't not ask for a better location in San Diego, only a few minutes from the airport, Balboa Park, shops and hospitals. Merrill Gardens also provide to their residents a variety of entertainment, Trip's to many local spots in San Diego and also local artist who are willing to share their talents and time. Lori Hansen is the general manager of Merrill Gardens. Kind, thoughtful and professional are the words that better describe her. I recommend this place and invite you to take a look if you're looking for a place to retire.

January 2018

Google

Barney McComas

The caveat to this review is that I've only visited for a tour, but my 84-year-old mother and I toured 6 facilities in and around San Diego in December 2017, and this outshined them all. The staff were all very friendly and professional, the residents were friendly and seemed happy, the decor is tasteful and warm, the building is beautiful and the location, 4 blocks from the western entrance to Balboa Park, is pretty close to ideal. The rooftop deck is a wonderful space with spectacular views and the food we had was excellent. The rooms are on the small side, but they are very nice, there is enough natural light and I think most have small balconies. And while they are far from inexpensive, similar but lesser facilities cost the same or more. My mom is very independent so isn't ready to take on the added cost for the services they provide, but it's on the top of our list when she is.

April 2017

Google

Gilbert Lovato

I was there to visit a friend he was happy, clean, in a clean room the staff were nice and caring the food is great!