Are you considering a reverse mortgage? Explore our comprehensive guide to find the best reverse mortgage lenders of 2024. Discover what a reverse mortgage is, how it works, potential usage and more!
Are you a homeowner in or nearing retirement and facing concerns about maintaining your current lifestyle or managing unexpected expenses in your golden years? Fortunately, there are viable solutions to assist in effectively navigating these challenges.
One solution worth exploring is a reverse mortgage. This financial tool provides homeowners with the opportunity access the equity they have built up in their homes, all while avoiding the strain of having to make monthly mortgage payments.
In this extensive overview of the leading reverse mortgage lenders of 2024, we will discuss the key traits to consider when selecting a trustworthy reverse mortgage lender. We will also flesh out what reverse mortgages are, including how they work and their potential applications, so you can determine if they align with your financial goals.
We will also clear up several myths surrounding this unique financial product.
We have curated a list of the top reverse mortgage lenders by carefully evaluating various factors. These include their longevity in the industry, the range of products they offer, their availability across different states, how available their customer service is to their customers, as well as their ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
If we had to choose a single lender to recommend, our top pick for the Best Overall reverse mortgage provider is Mutual of Omaha Mortgage.
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage is our Best Overall Pick. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage is part of a trusted brand, it offers 24/7 availability to its customers, and has excellent customer service ratings.
Company History: Mutual of Omaha Mortgage
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage’s high ranking can be attributed to its affiliation with a reputable company that boasts a century-long history. Mutual of Omaha is a Fortune 300 company with its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska, and is widely recognized for its diverse array of financial products.
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage says that it is committed to safeguarding its customers’ interests and assisting them in achieving their financial aspirations and a prosperous future.
Mutual of Omaha provides an extensive range of products, including life insurance, Medicare supplement insurance, disability insurance, traditional home mortgages, and reverse mortgages. Its wide breadth of products allows the company to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
With a team of experienced loan officers operating nationwide, Mutual of Omaha Mortgage maintains a strong reputation within the industry.
Reverse Mortgage Loan Options with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage
We appreciate that Mutual of Omaha Mortgage provides a diverse range of loan options. This gives customers greater confidence that they will find the right solution that will meet their needs. The reverse mortgage products offered by Mutual of Omaha mortgage include the following:
Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). The Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), commonly referred to as a reverse mortgage or HECM loan, is a federally backed loan only available to homeowners aged 62 or older. To be eligible, the home must serve as the homeowners’ primary residence and have accrued equity. With a reverse mortgage, borrowers have flexible options to receive funds: a single lump sum payment, regular monthly installments, a credit line, or a hybrid of these approaches. In 2023, the lending limit for HECM reverse mortgages set by the FHA exceeded $1 million for the first time.
HECM for Purchase. A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase) offers homeowners the opportunity to finance a portion of a new home purchase with a reverse mortgage along with a down payment from the proceeds of their previous residence. This unique arrangement enables qualifying homeowners to downsize or upsize during their retirement years, without the need for monthly mortgage payments.
Jumbo Reverse Mortgage. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage offers a proprietary reverse mortgage that offers borrowers the opportunity to access up to $4 million. This jumbo reverse mortgage option is for homeowners who wish to borrow amounts more than the FHA lending limit.
Reverse Mortgage Refinancing. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage also provides reverse mortgage refinancing options for homeowners who have already obtained a reverse mortgage. Reverse mortgage borrowers may consider refinancing their reverse mortgage for various reasons, including fluctuations in interest rates, an increase in home value, or adjustments to the FHA lending limit.
Traditional Mortgage Products. For those who are not eligible for a reverse mortgage loan, Mutual of Omaha also offers traditional conventional mortgage options.
Mutual of Omaha Reverse Mortgage Application Process: What to Expect
When working with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage to secure a reverse mortgage, you can expect the assistance of a committed loan officer who will guide you through every step of the process.
Below, you will find a summary of the reverse mortgage application process:
Step 1: Talk to a Reverse Mortgage Specialist
During this initial phase, a reverse mortgage specialist will assess detailspertaining to your property and personal financial circumstances to determine your eligibility for a reverse mortgage. The loan officer will provide you with an estimate of how much you may be able to receive and address any of your questions or concerns.
Step 2: Counseling
Before proceeding with a reverse mortgage application, it is mandatory for all potential applicants to complete a counseling session with a HUD approved counselor. Upon the completion of the counseling session, a certificate will be provided to you, which will need to be given to your reverse mortgage loan advisor before moving forward.
Step 3: File the Application
After completing the counseling session, you may submit your application. Your loan advisor will assist you with submitting your application and help you assemble the required documentation.
Step 4: Appraisal
Once your application is submitted, Mutual of Omaha Mortgage will request a professional home appraisal. In most cases, the appraisal will take about two weeks. During this time, the lender will also obtain other documentation such as a credit report, a title report, and other necessary documents.
Step 5: Underwriting
Upon submission of the application and associated documentation, a thorough review and processing will be conducted by underwriting. The underwriter will issue one of the following results: approval, approval with conditions, or denial. In the event that approval is granted with conditions, further documentation may be required, or home repairs may need to be completed for the loan to be finalized. Your reverse mortgage loan officer will reach out to you to address any outstanding requirements or repairs.
Step 6: Closing
Once the loan has been approved, Mutual will schedule the closing. You have the option to choose where you would like to sign the closing documents. It can happen at your home with the help of a mobile notary or at the office of the title company.
Step 7: Start Receiving Funds
After signing the closing documents, please be aware that a mandatory three-business-day waiting period before any funds can be received. The way you receive your funds depends on the method you selected during your application process.
Pros
Originates loans in 48 states and Washington, D.C.
Customer service available 24/7
Top customer ratings on third-party review websites
A+ Rating from the BBB
Mobile app
Free reverse mortgage calculator
Free reverse mortgage info guide
Pros
Not available in New York or West Virginia
Conclusion
Mutual of Omaha Reverse Mortgage is a subsidiary of a trusted brand with a long history. It offers a wide range of products to suit different needs, even if homeowners don’t meet the qualifications for a reverse mortgage. It has earned high customers ratings on external review platforms, and it has an A+ Rating from the BBB. In addition, it’s the only reverse mortgage lender we reviewed with 24/7 customer service and a mobile app.
Premier Reverse Mortgage — Good Option if You Live in New York
Overview
Premier Reverse Mortgage has a reputation for delivering personalized service, although its services are limited to a select number of states. It offers the following reverse mortgage loan options:
Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM)
HECM for Purchase
Jumbo Reverse Mortgages
Furthermore, Premier has an informative website featuring comprehensive guides like the Reverse Mortgage Guide, Reverse Mortgage Purchase Guide, and a Reverse Mortgage Guide for Adult Children. These resources are designed to educate homeowners and their families.
It only offers reverse mortgages in 14 states and the District of Columbia, but one of those states is New York.
Premier has an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Premier Reverse Mortgage Company History
Premier is based in Atlanta, Georgia and was founded in 2012 by industry veteran Matt Neumeyer, who possesses extensive experience in reverse mortgages. Premier says that it is focused on serving its customers with integrity and personal service.
Pros
A+ Rating from the BBB
Free informational guides
Available in New York
HECM for Purchase Calculator
Spanish version of website
Cons
Only available in 14 states and the District of Columbia
No reverse mortgage calculator (only HECM for purchase)
GoodLife Home Loans — Good Option if you live in West Virginia
Overview
GoodLife Home Loans is a relatively new reverse mortgage lender, only opening its doors in 2018. It currently offers the following reverse mortgage loan options:
HECM Reverse Mortgage Loans
Jumbo Reverse Mortgages
Reverse Mortgage Financing
In its short life, it has received an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau and has top customer service ratings on third-party review websites, such as Trustpilot.
It only offers reverse mortgages in 38 states, but one of those states is West Virginia.
GoodLife Home Loans Company History
GoodLife Home Loans is affiliated with Traditional Mortgage Acceptance Corporation.
Traditional Mortgage opened in 2012. It purchases reverse mortgages as a secondary market purchaser, and it’s a Ginnie Mae issuer of mortgage-backed securities (MBS). Once it purchases closed reverse mortgage loans from other lenders, it pools them together, and issues them as a Ginnie Mae Security. It is also a wholesale underwriter for reverse mortgages.
GoodLife Home Loans opened as a reverse mortgage lender in 2018. The company says that it is committed to making reverse mortgages more accessible.
GoodLife has corporate offices in Bellevue, Washington and Mission Viejo, California.
Pros
A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
High customer review ratings on third-party websites
Available in West Virginia
Free Reverse Mortgage Calculator
Cons
Only available in 38 states
Does not offer HECM for Purchase
A Comprehensive Overview of Reverse Mortgages
Reverse mortgages have gained significant popularity among homeowners approaching or already in retirement. Revere mortgages offer older homeowners an added financial resource to address a range of expenses, including medical bills, home renovations, and unforeseen costs.
As individuals often find a significant portion of their net worth tied up in their homes, it is not uncommon for them to explore options to access this wealth. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) estimates that home equity accounts for about two-thirds of an average retiree’s total wealth.
To address this, many seniors are turning to reverse mortgages. Unlike Home Equity Loans or Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs), reverse mortgages offer a unique solution as a tool that allows homeowners to access the capital in their homes but without requiring monthly mortgage payments to pay it back.
This comprehensive guide will cover what you need to know about reverse mortgages so that you can make an informed decision.
What is a Reverse Mortgage?
Reverse mortgages are a financial tool that gives older homeowners the opportunity to access their home’s equity and continue to reside in their home, without the obligation of monthly mortgage payments. They offer a path for accessing additional funds while still maintaining ownership of your home.
The HECM (home equity conversion mortgage), commonly referred to as a reverse mortgage, continues to be the top choice for homeowners seeking a reverse mortgage loan. Reverse mortgages are overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and insured the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
A reverse mortgage is a loan taken out against the equity in the home, like a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Unlike a traditional mortgage, it permits homeowners to borrow against their property’s accumulated value.
A reverse mortgage provides unique advantages to eligible homeowners as it eliminates the need for monthly mortgage payments for repayment, setting it apart from other available options.
This is one way that a reverse mortgage can help free up cash, since the mortgage is typically most Americans’ largest expense.
Homeowners with a reverse] mortgage are still obligated to paying the property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, home maintenance expenses, and other fees, where applicable.
A reverse mortgage is repaid under several conditions: when the property is sold, when it is no longer the primary residence, if homeowners do not fulfill loan obligations, or upon the homeowner’s passing.
How Does a Reverse Mortgage Loan Work?
When securing a reverse mortgage loan, it initially pays off your existing traditional mortgage.
To access the remaining equity, there are several options available for receiving your funds, including a lump sum payout, fixed monthly installments, a credit line, or a mixture of these options.
The choice you make will be determined by your specific financial situation.
Those who are a good fit for the lump sum payment method include those planning major projects like home renovations or debt repayment. Those who may be a good fit for choosing monthly payments are those who are seeking to help cover their monthly expenses. Lastly, the line of credit provides flexibility and additional funds for unexpected expenses or personal use.
Reverse mortgage borrowers enjoy significant flexibility as there are no restrictions on how they can use the funds.
When selecting monthly payments as the preferred method to receive funds, individuals have the choice between term monthly payments, which are paid out for a set number of months, or tenure monthly payments that are paid out if the borrower resides in the home and satisfies the reverse mortgage obligations.
The Factors That Determine Your Reverse Mortgage Loan Amount
There are three key factors that play a role in determining your reverse mortgage loan amount: your age, the interest rates, and your home’s value.
It’s also important to consider other factors, such as the lending limit set by the FHA, and the method of fund disbursement you choose.
The FHA sets a limit on the total loan amount homeowners can receive from HECM reverse mortgages. In 2023, the FHA lending limit surpassed $1 million.
When opting for a lump sum payment, keep in mind that there is a rule that limits the amount you can receive called the principal limit rule.
Under the principal limit rule, you can only access 60 percent of the approved loan amount within the initial year of the reverse mortgage loan.
To address this, borrowers can combine a lump sum with monthly installments or credit line.
It’s worth noting that choosing a lump sum comes with the advantage of a fixed interest rate.
Both the monthly installments and credit line methods have adjustable interest rates. However, interest is only charged on the funds they actually receive.
One benefit of going with the line of credit payment option is that the remaining balance has the potential to grow over time. It’s important to note that the principal limit rule also applies to the line of credit option.
Use a reverse mortgage calculator to obtain a more precise estimate of your potential loan amount.
When considering a reverse mortgage, it’s important to note that there are distinct requirements that set it apart from other mortgage and home equity loan options. If you’re considering applying for a reverse mortgage, here are the qualifications you need to meet:
At least one borrower must be a minimum of 62 years old.
The property must be the homeowners’ primary residence. Keep in mind that secondary residences or vacation homes are not eligible for this type of mortgage.
The home needs to be in good condition.
The home should have accumulated some equity.
The property must fall into one of the following categories: a multi-family property with no more than four units in which the homeowners reside in one unit, a single-family home, a condominium that meets certain criteria, or an approved manufactured home.
Prospective borrowers are required to participate in a comprehensive counseling session with a third-party counseling service approved by HUD prior to applying for a reverse mortgage.
Homeowners with a reverse mortgage are obligated to occupy the property as their primary residence. They must also stay current on property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and maintain the home.
What are the Types of Reverse Mortgages?
Reverse mortgages come in four distinct types, each serving its own specific purpose, including the following:
HECM Reverse Mortgage
A home equity conversion mortgage (HECM) is the most used type of reverse mortgage. Homeowners aged 62 or older, who live in their primary residence and have equity in their home, are eligible for a reverse mortgage. These mortgages are backed by the federal government through HUD and the FHA. They are also subject to the FHA borrowing limit.
HECM for Purchase
A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase) enables homeowners to finance part of their new home using a reverse mortgage. This approach combines the reverse mortgage with a substantial down payment that is typically taken from the sale of their previous home. This allows older homeowners a way to downsize or upgrade their homes in retirement without the need for monthly payments.
Jumbo Reverse Mortgage
Jumbo reverse mortgage loans are specifically designed for eligible homeowners who wish to access funds exceeding the lending limit set by the FHA. These loans are created by individual lenders and can go up to $4 million. While they may have higher interest rates than traditional options, borrowers are not required to pay for mortgage insurance premiums.
Single-Purpose Reverse Mortgage
Single-purpose reverse mortgages are a less common type of reverse mortgage that is specifically designed for homeowners who are at least 62 years old. Lenders typically authorize these programs for specific purposes, often limited to home renovations. They are primarily attained through non-profit groups and state and local governments.
What are the Costs and Fees Associated with a Reverse Mortgage?
Reverse mortgages are accompanied by a range of costs and fees you will want to take into account.
Here is a breakdown of the fees that you may pay when acquiring a reverse mortgage. Keep in mind that some of these fees can be included in the loan itself:
The HUD-mandated counseling session typically costs between $125 to $200. However, as per the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), for those who cannot afford this fee, the counseling agency is not allowed to charge you, and it should provide a detailed explanation of all charges before the counseling session.
The origination fee is charged by the lender, but the CFPB says that it cannot exceed $6,000. This fee varies from lender to lender.
Closing costs are made up of numerous fees that are charged in the application process, which typically include credit checks, home inspection fees, title search fees, and appraisal fees.
When you originate a loan, the lender will levy the first mortgage insurance premium. This premium goes to the FHA and serves as insurance that you’ll receive the promised funds, the CFPB says.
These are the ongoing expenses you can anticipate paying after you close on your loan:
When it comes to interest rates for reverse mortgages, you have two options: a fixed rate or an adjustable rate. If you opt for a lump sum payout, you’ll enjoy the stability of a fixed interest rate. However, if you choose any other method, you’ll have an adjustable rate. Interest is only applied to the funds that have been disbursed.
Annually, you will pay a mortgage insurance premium, which is calculated at 0.5 percent of your remaining mortgage balance.
When you secure a loan, it is common for the lender to impose a servicing fee to cover the costs of managing your loan.
Homeowners are responsible for paying property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and other obligatory fees that may apply.
When Does it Make Sense to Get a Reverse Mortgage?
Reverse mortgages are no longer considered a last-ditch option for retired homeowners in need of extra cash. In recent years, the perception of reverse mortgages has evolved significantly.
Reverse mortgages have gained recognition as a viable solution to address various needs and situations. These may encompass, but are not limited to, the following scenarios:
If you need additional income to cover your monthly expenses. Homeowners seeking to supplement their income may explore additional avenues if they find that their Social Security benefits and other sources of income fall short of their monthly expenses.
If you want to remain in your home. A reverse mortgage offers a convenient option for individuals approaching retirement to comfortably age in their own homes. Despite the availability of retirement communities in popular states like Florida and Arizona, research from the Center for Retirement Research reveals that most retired Americans choose to stay in the same houses they occupied from their early 50s onward.
If you need additional savings. A Federal Reserve study reported that a large share of Americans has inadequate savings for retirement. If you’re facing financial challenges and looking for ways to manage costs, a reverse mortgage could potentially offer a viable solution.
If the market is in a downturn. The stock market is known for its fluctuations, impacting various investments like 401(k)s and IRAs. In the event of a market downturn during retirement, individuals can use a reverse mortgage to supplement their income until the market recovers and they feel comfortable withdrawing their investments.
If you want to postpone Social Security benefits. Postponing claiming Social Security benefits leads to a gradual increase in the amount received by retirees. For those homeowners who need additional income until they are ready to start collecting their benefits, a viable option is a reverse mortgage. Homeowners have the flexibility to delay Social Security benefits until reaching the age of 70, while they qualify to secure a reverse mortgage starting from the age of 62.
What are the Reverse Mortgage Protections?
Reverse mortgages garnered negative attention in the past, leaving homeowners concerned about the safety of this product. However, the federal government has taken measures to address these risks by implementing new laws and stronger safeguards.
As a result, homeowners can have greater confidence in pursuing this type of loan. Here are some of the protections that have been instituted:
Cross-selling ban. The Justice Department reported in 2021 that elder fraud cost Americans aged 60 and older $1.7 billion. To protect older homeowners, the federal government has prohibited cross-selling reverse mortgages with other financial products. This measure aims to prevent scammers from persuading homeowners to invest reverse mortgage proceeds in other financial or insurance products. While there are no limitations on how reverse mortgage funds are utilized, it is important to be aware that it is illegal for someone to encourage you to obtain a reverse mortgage for the purpose of purchasing another product from them.
Non-recourse loan protections. Reverse mortgages are repaid if the homeowners sell the home, no longer live in it as their primary residence, or pass away. If the final loan amount exceeds the home’s value, the borrowers or their heirs are not obligated to pay the difference. This is because reverse mortgages are “non-recourse loans” and the lender cannot use any other assets besides the home to settle the loan. Mortgage insurance premiums ensure this protection.
Right to Cancel. When applying for a reverse mortgage, it’s important to know that you have the right to cancel the loan at any time during the application process. You can also cancel the loan within three business days of signing the loan documents.
What You Should Know About Reverse Mortgage Scams
A reverse mortgage is a valid financial product that offers several potential benefits. However, it is important to be cautious of individuals who may attempt to exploit potential reverse mortgage borrowers through fraudulent schemes.
Here are some reverse mortgage scams to be aware of:
Beware of contractors who aggressively promote reverse mortgages to finance home repairs or renovations.
Beware of individuals posing as Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees. The VA does not offer reverse mortgages. While it’s not uncommon for lenders to provide military discounts, this doesn’t mean that the VA has any affiliation with reverse mortgages.
Beware of loan officers who try to coerce you into a reverse mortgage through scare tactics. Reputable reverse mortgage brokers serve as valuable resources, offering comprehensive information and addressing inquiries pertaining to HECM loans. Brokers should never exert undue pressure on homeowners to take out the loan or try to influence how the funds are used.
A common misconception surrounding reverse mortgages is that homeowners transfer ownership of their homes to lenders, who then compensate them for it.
A reverse mortgage is simply a loan acquired against the equity in the home, which is repaid when the home is sold, the last remaining borrower passes away, or the home is no longer the primary residence.
Like a conventional mortgage, the borrower retains the title and ownership of the home, with the obligation to repay the loan when the time comes.
> What Happens to a Reverse Mortgage When a Homeowner Passes Away?
When a homeowner with a reverse mortgage passes away, the surviving spouse may continue living in the home if they are a co-borrower on the loan. If the surviving spouse is not listed as a borrower, there are still options available for them to remain in the property, subject to specific conditions.
In the event of the last borrower’s death, the lender will send a notice that the loan is due and payable. Heirs then have the option to sell the home, keep the home by paying the loan balance, sign the title over to the lender, or do nothing and let the bank takeover.
> Will My Family Lose Their Inheritance?
You can still leave your home to your children or heirs. Your heirs can choose to keep the home by paying off the reverse mortgage or selling it.
The loan is a “non-recourse” loan, meaning your heirs will never owe more than the loan value or 95% of the appraised value.
In addition, no other assets are tied up in a reverse mortgage, so any other investments, assets, and savings are not at risk.
It is recommended to involve your family in the process so they can know what to expect and plan accordingly.
> Can You Get a Reverse Mortgage with Bad Credit?
There is no specific credit score requirement needed to obtain a reverse mortgage. That being said, lenderstake credit scores and credit history into account as part of their financial assessment.
This assessment helps them evaluate whether applicants can meet the financial obligations of the loan as reverse mortgage borrowers must be able to continue to pay the property taxes, home insurance, and home maintenance costs.
It’s worth noting that even applicants with bad credit may still be approved if they can demonstrate their ability to meet the necessary obligations.
> How Long Does the Reverse Mortgage Application Process Take?
Securing a reverse mortgage loan is a comprehensive and meticulous process. It typically takes approximately 45 days from initiation until the disbursement of funds begins.
Methodology
This evaluation of the best reverse mortgage companies incorporates the following criteria in evaluating each company: business longevity, reverse mortgage product offerings, customer ratings on third-party review websites, ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), state licensing footprint, and the availability of a mobile app.
Renewable energy companies building hundreds of power plants. Biotech startups using artificial intelligence to create personalized medicine for children with rare diseases. Hospitality companies quietly powering thousands of local events. Consumer brands growing from beach-town startups into national businesses. These are the kinds of companies driving San Diego’s economy today, and the businesses recognized at this year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards offer a snapshot of where the region is headed.
Hosted July 23 by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards event honored four local companies for innovation, growth, and economic impact. More than 100 nominations from San Diego’s middle-market businesses were reviewed by a 10-person judging committee, with winners selected across four categories: startup, early-stage innovator, rising star, and established heavyweight.
Two-time honoree Jimbo Someck, founder of Jimbo’s organic grocery stores, also joined the event for a fireside chat on buying local, supporting emerging brands, and giving back to the community.
“San Diego’s strength comes from its makers and builders—the resilient people who endure great risks and overcome obstacles to build and scale a company,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager and Middle Market Banking at JPMorganChase & Co. “These awards aren’t just recognition; they spotlight the talent, grit, and innovation shaping our region’s future. By celebrating those who create and build, we foster connections and fuel the growth that keeps San Diego thriving.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Building the Infrastructure Behind Clean Energy
Heavyweight honoree SOLV Energy has grown alongside the country’s rapid investment in renewable power. “It’s an exciting time for SOLV Energy as we are experiencing significant growth,” says CEO George Hershman. “The business has doubled over the last year and has almost double-digit growth since its inception.”
The Rancho Bernardo-based company designs, builds, operates, and maintains utility-scale solar and energy storage facilities. Since its founding in 2008, SOLV Energy has built more than 500 power plants.
Growth has translated directly into hiring. About 200 employees work from the company’s local headquarters, including roughly 20 interns. “Our intern program is a big part of the way that we grow our workforce,” Hershman says. “Last year, 43 percent of our interns became full-time employees. We believe San Diego is a great community to build and grow a high-tech infrastructure and technology company because of the incredible workforce—the ability to attract top talent and draw from world-class universities.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Developing Medicine One Patient at a Time
Startup honoree La Jolla Labs is tackling one of medicine’s biggest challenges by developing personalized RNA therapeutics for patients with rare diseases—many of them children with neurological disorders like ALS. Using proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, the biotech company develops treatments tailored to each patient’s specific genetic mutation.
CEO Tamar Grossman says the recognition reflects how far the company has come despite limited resources. “We’re honored to be recognized for our ability to change and save patients’ lives and turn our lean startup into a clinical company with very minimal resources,” she says.
Grossman credits San Diego’s concentration of research institutions—including UC San Diego, the Salk Institute, and Scripps Research—with creating a pipeline of talent and collaboration. “San Diego is one of the world-leading centers for technology, genomics, and RNA therapeutics,” she says. “We have over 30 RNA therapeutics companies here, and we support each other and help with anything related to drug discovery.”
She says that collaborative spirit extends beyond formal partnerships. “You can walk around Torrey Pines, go into a café, and find colleagues from the industry and have an ad hoc conversation,” Grossman says. “That’s something very unique to San Diego.”
While Snake Oil Venue Company may not be a household name, chances are many San Diegans have attended one of its events. The early-stage innovator honoree has expanded from beverage catering and mixology consulting into venue management, operating Julep Venue in Mission Hills, Bramble Bay Venue in Imperial Beach, Vesper Venue, the Chapel at Liberty Station, and five outdoor venues throughout Liberty Station—more than 500,000 square feet of event space altogether.
“We do a lot of launch parties for corporations and new products,” says CEO Mike Esposito. “I really like working on the entrepreneur side of things, where new businesses are entering the San Diego market and looking to make a splash.”
Snake Oil has executed more than 16,000 events, employed more than 1,000 people, and partnered with more than 900 local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, entertainers, and other hospitality businesses. The company also works with many of San Diego’s nonprofits, museums, and cultural institutions. “We get to celebrate people’s most important moments,” Esposito says. “Whether that’s a wedding, celebration of life, or quinceañera, we’re fortunate to be involved in the community in so many different ways.”
Photo Credit: Matt Furman
Growing a Beach-Town Brand into a National Business
Rising star honoree ALOHA Collection is proof that a simple idea can grow into a thriving company. Founded by two roommates who wanted a better way to carry wet swimsuits after a day at the beach, the lifestyle brand has grown into a business while maintaining strong year-over-year growth.
Now headquartered in Carlsbad, ALOHA Collection employs more than 100 people and operates its California flagship store in Encinitas, which is slated for a remodel. With roots in Hawaii, the company is known for its lightweight, splash-proof travel bags that have become a familiar sight on beaches in San Diego and beyond.
“‘Aloha’ is part of our name, but it’s also how we move through the world,” says CEO Lynna Barnard. “It’s how we show up for people, the way we travel, the way we give back.” Since day one, the company has maintained a 5 percent giveback to Hawaii conservation efforts, contributing millions of dollars over the years.
“I think what’s so inspiring about ALOHA Collection, and the founders in particular, is when you dream big, those dreams can come true when you work hard and trust in the universe,” Barnard says. “It’s inspiring to be a role model for other people wanting to start businesses from humble beginnings. Start small and watch it grow.”
Together, businesses like these form a cornerstone of San Diego’s economy—not only through the jobs and revenue they generate—but through the local workers they hire, vendors they support, and investments they make in the region. Their growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it ripples outward, strengthening the broader business community and the people who call San Diego home.
It’s estimated that 44% of women in the U.S. have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, but many don’t know it. The disease often has no symptoms, and when symptoms do present, they can appear similar to many other conditions. High blood pressure increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, so it’s critical that it’s detected and treated early. And for women at risk of developing high blood pressure, prevention is key. Click here for the basics of high blood pressure and how Scripps physicians at Scripps use screenings not just as a diagnostic tool, but as part of routine preventive care.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
San Diego seniors are redefining retirement. In an era where staying active and connected is more important than ever, San Diego seniors are empowered to spend their golden years living life to the fullest. Aging gracefully in America’s finest city means luxury living, access to exceptional healthcare, and thoughtfully planned social activities that bring people together and build supportive networks. From vibrant, resort-like communities built around everyday life to senior-friendly ventures spanning city and shore, San Diego is full of opportunities to remain happy and healthy. Retirement isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning.
The Right Retirement Community
San Diego is home to some of California’s most sought-after retirement communities. Many of these communities feel more like luxury resorts than traditional senior housing, and focus on active aging, meaning overall well-being and quality of life are just as important as medical care. Amenities often include ocean views, fine dining, concierge services, wellness spas, lifelong learning programs, and full continuum-of-care options with specially trained medical staff. These communities ensure that San Diego seniors enjoy independence as well as a level of assistance appropriate to their individual needs. When it comes to aging gracefully, San Diego is the place to be.
Belmont Village Senior Living
Belmont Village Senior Living communities combine luxury hospitality and higher-acuity care services, including memory care and cognitive support. Experiences are tailored to each resident, including couples requiring different levels of care. Residents can expect chef-prepared dining, fitness and wellness programming, transportation services, social activities, and spaces designed to encourage connection and engagement. The community also works with thought leaders in the field to develop initiatives that empower residents to live life to the fullest.
Lantern Crest Senior Living
At Lantern Crest Senior Living, retirement is an opportunity to thrive. Nestled on over 30 beautifully landscaped acres in East County, Lantern Crest offers a variety of living options within a premier resort-style community. Residents enjoy an exceptional collection of amenities, including heated pools, fitness & wellness centers, movie theaters, chef-prepared dining, putting greens, dog parks, salons, social clubs, an on-site Sharp clinic, pharmacy services, and countless opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive. Lantern Crest is dedicated to delivering personalized service, meaningful experiences, and a lifestyle that empowers residents to live with purpose, independence, and joy.
Senior Resource Group
A chef-curated menu with healthy plant-forward options, holistic wellness programs, lifelong learning seminars, and a variety of thoughtfully designed social activities help set Senior Resource Group’s properties apart from the pack. Its La Vida Del Mar community in Solana Beach offers residents a high-end coastal lifestyle a stone’s throw from Old Del Mar and the Cedros Design District. La Vida Del Mar provides independent living and assisted living options, and as the CARF-accredited community in North County, prioritizes personalized onsite medical care, exceptional hospitality, and celebrating every resident.
Vi at La Jolla Village
Vi at La Jolla Village offers a resort-style retirement lifestyle in the heart of San Diego’s cultural attractions. Exceptional accommodations, upscale dining, and thoughtfully designed amenities support well-being and help residents live each day to the fullest. Plus, with a continuum of on-site care available at no additional charge,* residents can feel confident knowing that if their needs change, assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing are available right here. Dedicated rehabilitation services are also available to non-residents in a Medicare® certified environment.
*Care options are subject to ancillary fees for items such as extra meals and supplies. Annual, community-wide monthly fee increases also apply.
Aging Well … In Place
Homewatch CareGivers
Some seniors prefer the comfort of their own homes over retirement communities—no matter how luxurious the lifestyle may be. Homewatch CareGivers in northwest San Diego and Santee provides compassionate in-home care for peace of mind. With no minimum hour requirements, Homewatch makes it easy to get support, whether it’s a few hours a week or around-the-clock care. Care plans and services are tailored to help each senior maintain independence while accommodating their lifestyle, medical needs, and preferred living environment. Homewatch also offers technology solutions that connect clients with 24/7 support when they’re home alone.
San Diego is home to world-class aestheticians, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists who can help turn back the hands of time and revitalize tired, damaged skin. Enhancing your look is a spectrum. Treatments range from noninvasive procedures like lasers or injectables to the big guns, like a deep-plane facelift—many with better results and less downtime than ever thanks to advanced techniques and technology. Whether you’re a Botox beginner or an aesthetic medical care veteran, San Diego aestheticians and aesthetic medicine providers can help you look and feel like the best version of yourself.
Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa
Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa is San Diego’s premier destination for aesthetic surgery, led by world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Rossi. Celebrated for his artistry, precision, and natural-looking results, Dr. Rossi is known for creating customized Mommy Makeovers that help women restore confidence and reclaim their bodies after pregnancy. His expertise also extends to comprehensive post-weight loss body contouring, addressing excess skin and skin laxity with sophisticated surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. From breast and body rejuvenation to deep plane facelifts and eyelid surgery, every treatment plan reflects Dr. Rossi’s commitment to surgical excellence, personalized care, and transformative results that look as beautiful as they feel.
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology
At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, the board-certified, internationally acclaimed team has the power to erase 10+ years of aging in a single treatment. The center’s 60+ laser, light, and energy devices do it all—refining texture and tone, calming acne, minimizing pores, and erasing that ill-advised spring break tattoo of yesteryear. Their dermatologists take it further by stacking multiple devices in one session for synergistic results—the philosophy behind their signature Take5 and Take10 treatments, the latter capable of removing a decade-plus of aging in just one visit. Add a full suite of injectables, body sculpting, and vein treatments for every skin type and tone, and it’s no wonder the practice’s medical director was named the #1 cosmetic dermatologist in America by Newsweek two years running.
Cultivé Medical Aesthetic
If it’s subtle, lasting results you’re after, Cultivé Medical Aesthetics has you covered. Cultivé purposely combines aesthetics and wellness. The Bankers Hill practice offers a full menu of services designed to improve skin health and support the three pillars of aesthetic aging: skin tone and texture, volume loss, and laxity. Cultivé offers a wide range of aesthetic treatments, including collagen boosting powerhouse Morpheus8, biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse, PRP therapy, laser hair removal, VI peels, and regenerative skincare treatments. They also provide wellness-focused services such as hormone replacement therapy, IV therapy, and medical weight management programs.
Starlite Aesthetics and Wellness
Starlite Aesthetics and Wellness focuses on enhancing natural beauty through science-backed treatments tailored to each client’s goals. Michelle Langston, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, founded Starlite on the principle that aesthetic medicine should be precise, personal, and rooted in wellness. The boutique aesthetic practice in La Jolla combines modern medical aesthetics with holistic wellness principles for refined results personalized to each patient. Langston has spent more than a decade honing her skills in advanced injectables, regenerative therapies, and anti-aging care. Starlite offers regenerative therapies rooted in science, promoting skin rejuvenation using a multiple modality approach. Service offerings include RF microneedling, wrinkle relaxers, facial balancing and more.
The “It” List
In the rapidly advancing field of aesthetic medicine, it can be hard to tell what’s worth the hype. Here are some of the latest, most advanced, and most popular options out there.
Morpheus8: This combination of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy activates your skin’s own collagen and elastin without the downtime associated with some laser treatments. It can be used to reduce wrinkles, tighten skin, improve skin tone, contour the jawline, and minimize acne scars.
Exosome Therapy: This cutting-edge treatment uses protein-packed nanoparticles to trigger repair and rejuvenation at the cellular level. Often used post-microneedling or lasers, exosomes penetrate deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production.
Post-GLP-1 Skin Removal: Rapid fat loss prompted by GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide, can leave users with sagging skin. Skilled surgeons can remove excess skin and reshape the figure.
Treatment Stacking: Sometimes it’s the more the merrier when it comes to aesthetic procedures. Combining multiple non-surgical treatments in a single session allows users to address several issues efficiently, with less downtime.
If you’re anything like us, it can be easy to get so caught up in taking care of everyone else, that your own needs get lost in the ether. But while this may be a cliché, that doesn’t make it any less true: You can’t give your best self to other people unless you’re taking care of yourself.
Sometimes, that looks like stopping in for your regular acupuncture or chiropractic appointment. Other days, it means giving your body the fresh, organic fuel it needs to truly feel and function at its best. And some other times still, it involves leaving your responsibilities behind for a weekend to pamper yourself at an incredible resort and spa.
Only you can decide what your truly need. We’re just here to help you find the best ways to get it.
Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
Island living meets desert luxury at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. When you step onto the 11-acre property, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping view of the Santa Rosa Mountains with olive trees and fragrant citrus groves decorating the grounds. In other words, everything about this relaxed but refined resort is primed to help you let go of the stress from home and enjoy easy sun-soaked days and gorgeous starry nights.
The rooms blend calming, woven textures with Tommy Bahama’s signature tropical prints and feature private lanais, making it easy unwind the moment you walk in the door. If you book one of the four Villa Suites, you’ll be treated to exclusive Tommy Bahama furniture and unique personal touches to further that feeling of instant ease.
At the award-winning Spa Rosa, the expert team will help reset and recharge your body and mind using methods and rituals inspired by the desert. The 12,000-square-foot retreat includes outdoor soaking pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, and outdoor cabanas, as well as massages, facials, and body masks—all aimed at creating a day dedicated to you. We’re particularly partial to the Day Long Escape, an indulgent all-day affair of CDBs soaks, renewing scrubs, life changing massages, and transformative facials.
Following your treatment, continue the experience with a meal on the patio at Grapefruit Basil. We love the Hamachi Crudo, a light, citrus-forward dish featuring premium yellowtail, house-made ponzu, creamy avocado, and fresh seasonal garnishes.
Whether you’re strolling the gardens, relaxing beside its saltwater pools, or indulging in a restorative treatment, you’ll be able to escape in style and relax in luxury at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa.
Healcove Chiropractic
There’s no shortage of ways to stay active in San Diego—but if you really want to enjoy everything the city has to offer, you’ve got to make sure you’re giving your body its tune-ups. Enter: Healcove Chiropractic. The board-certified chiropractors and wellness professionals at Healcove are experts at addressing that stage where you’re not injured, exactly, but you’re not at 100%, either. Maybe you’re feeling a bit tense or stressed out. Or it could be that you’re not quite moving the way you want to. Sometimes, it’s just that the accumulation of days, weeks, or even years of daily strain is starting to take a toll. No matter what stage you find yourself at, the Healcove Chiropractic team can provide integrated, preventative care centered on long-term, science-backed approaches that ensure you can always stay active and live the life you want to live pain-free.
This starts by providing truly individualized care. Every patient can expect a thorough 60-minute consultation session that includes a posture and movement screening. This allows the team to develop a completely personalized plan. That plan might include chiropractic care, acupuncture, or massage therapy, as well as functional fitness training, vibration and sound therapy, and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, a clinical rehabilitation method that retrains the body’s stabilization systems. Whatever the team recommends, you can be sure that it’s tailored to meeting your body’s needs today and the future.
There’s a reason that San Diego Magazine named Healcove the “Best Chiropractor in San Diego”—don’t wait until you’re struggling with an injury to find out why. Book an appointment today for holistic, integrated care that helps ground and heal your body before it reaches a crisis point.
Juice Holler
West Coast wellness culture meets the community feel of Southern Appalachia at Juice Holler. Juice Holler’s menu consists of made-to-order smoothies and smoothie bowls, as well as grab-and-go cold-pressed juices, wellness shots, salads, and more. It operates from the blissfully simple premise that fueling up with food and drink that’s guilt-free and good your body should be simple, accessible, and, above all else, delicious. And if you haven’t yet made it out to the Encinitas café, which opened just this year, let us be the first to tell you: Juice Holler delivers on each and every of these fronts.
We love the Supercharger smoothie, a mood-lifting and body-fueling option made with banana, almond butter, blue spirulina, maca, grass-fed whey protein, raw cacao nibs, medjool dates, and coconut milk. We’re also partial to the Thrive Alive smoothie bowl, where avocado, mango, sea moss, spirulina, mint, coconut milk, and agave are mixed and topped with coconut, chia seeds, strawberry, mango, and chocolate drizzle. The wellness shots include the Detoxifier, a cleansing blend of kale, cucumber, lemon and spirulina, plus a shot specially designed to fight inflammation (named, fittingly, Anti-Inflammation). Probiotic overnight oats, lemon turmeric bars, and strawberry shortcake chia pudding are other standouts on the grab-and-go menu.
Much of the vibe feels beachy North County chic—think green tile with orange and pink accents, grounded with greenery and natural wood—but Juice Holler founder Kelly Sergott, a longtime Encinitas local, has also enfused the space with her Kentucky roots. In Appalachia, a holler is small valley between hills and mountains, where nature reigns, community is king, and nourishment comes right from the land. At Juice Holler, Sergott has created a holler for the busy modern times, using local ingredients to create a spot for people to come together and enjoy fresh, fast, feel-good fuel for their day.
Everwell Acupuncture
We’ve all had that experience with a medical professional where we’ve felt rushed, ignored, or misunderstood—and ultimately, like we didn’t get the answers that we needed. But at Everwell, the holistic acupuncture practice located in Solana Beach, the care team wants to transform your understanding of what healthcare can look like.
Patients at Everwell experience care rooted in intentional listening and radical empathy—and trust us, those aren’t just corporate buzzwords. This place actually puts those ideas into practice. You will always be given the time you need to tell your story— initial in-take appointments are two hours long—and you can rest assured that your story will be believed. Every single question and concern will be addressed by a dedicated practitioner who wants to find the specific solutions that work best for you, and you’ll receive care that’s aimed at healing the body, mind, and spirit.
Everwell’s highly trained, doctorate-level practitioners blend evidence-based acupuncture with the practice of classical Chinese medicine. (If you’ve never tried acupuncture before or aren’t sure if the team will be a fit, we’d highly recommended Everwell’s complimentary 20-minute consultations.) Research shows that by stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture activates a natural healing response in the body, helping to restore balance, regulate the nervous system, and improve overall wellbeing. This allows the practice to address an incredibly wide range of conditions from chronic pain and autoimmune disorders to digestive issues, from stress and burnout to headaches migraines, fertility and postpartum struggles, hormonal imbalances, sleep concerns and more.
At Everwell, you can expect to feel heard, trusted, respected, and cared for. This is a space that doesn’t want to be just another healthcare provider you visit; it wants to provide patients with dedicated partner who will be there for their entire health journey.
You’ve Tracked Your Macros, Your Sleep, Your Steps. What About Your Drinking?
The Unconscious Moderation app is helping health-conscious professionals take an honest look at their drinking, without pressure, and without quitting as the only option.
San Diego runs on optimization. Early mornings, clean eating, training logs, sleep scores. The people here take their health seriously and the results usually show. Most of them also have two drinks most nights, not because anything is wrong, but because the day was long and the glass is right there and it has always been right there.
That routine doesn’t get the same scrutiny as the rest of the stack. It doesn’t feel like something to examine. It feels like a reward.
Which is exactly what your brain has decided it is. When something reliably moves you from one state to another, your brain files it under things to repeat. Do it consistently enough and the cue stops requiring a decision. It’s 6pm, the laptop is closed, and some part of your brain has already placed the order.
Most habit-change tools work on the number. They count drinks, set weekly targets, send check-in texts. That’s useful for seeing what the pattern looks like. It doesn’t tell you where the pattern came from, or change it at that level.
Unconscious Moderation works underneath the habit. The app uses guided hypnotherapy sessions, structured journaling, and daily movement to address the subconscious associations that make reaching for a drink feel like the obvious next thing. The journaling isn’t a diary. It’s built to surface what your brain is actually reaching for, so you can meet that need directly rather than through a substitute.
The program runs 90 days. At day 30, you choose your own direction: cut back, drink more intentionally, or stop altogether. The app treats both as equally valid outcomes. The point isn’t to follow a rule you set on a Sunday. It’s to understand the pattern well enough that whichever path you choose, you’re choosing it clearly.
The people who tend to get the most out of it are not in crisis. They’re the ones who have tried tracking apps and found the count drifting back up regardless. They know exactly how much they drink and why. The awareness just hasn’t moved the habit. At some point, the work needs to happen somewhere the count sheet can’t reach.
San Diego’s wellness culture already knows that surface numbers tell only part of the story. What you eat matters, but so does why. How much you sleep matters, but so does the quality. The same logic applies here.
