Fairwinds – Rio Rancho Named 2026 Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living by U.S. News & World Report

Apr 14, 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 fifth 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 – Rio Rancho has been named among the Best Senior Living Communities in the nation, recognized in 2026 as Best Independent Living and Best Assisted 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

Finding high-quality senior living is more important than ever, as older adults continue to redefine what retirement looks like. Today’s communities are robust, dynamic places where older adults live purposefully and joyfully. As homeownership becomes more complex and demanding, an increasing number of individuals and families are turning to senior living communities that offer trusted care, meaningful connections, and dignified support.

“Choosing a senior living community is a major life decision for older adults and their families. U.S. News’ Best Senior Living ratings provide data-driven decision support, offering an unbiased evaluation of resident and family satisfaction in senior living communities. Notably, a separate U.S. News survey of older Americans on their experiences with loneliness found that moving into senior living communities significantly improves residents’ social well-being: 61% reported reduced loneliness, and 85% made new friends,” – Liz Pearce, Director, Senior Living at U.S News

The 2026 U.S. News Best Senior Living awards are based on resident satisfaction surveys conducted between March 2025 and February 2026, reflecting feedback from more than 200,000 residents across approximately 4,000 senior living communities nationwide. Survey topics covered essential aspects of daily life, including:

• The kindness and professionalism of the staff
• Variety and quality of activities
• Dining experience and food quality
• Local transportation offerings
• Quality of on-site caregiving

Experience the Best of Senior Living in 2026

At Fairwinds – Rio Rancho, 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 – Rio Rancho! See firsthand why we’ve been recognized as Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living by U.S. News and World Report.

Contact us today to schedule a tour!