It’s normal for our loved ones’ needs to change as they age. Sometimes, that may mean it’s time to look more closely at their living situation.
That said, the thought of moving your aging parent into a nursing home can feel emotional and overwhelming. Beyond the challenge of finding the right home, there’s also the reality of planning financially for the cost of care.
In 2025, the national median cost of a nursing home is about $9,555 per month for a semi-private room and $10,965 for a private room. Understanding these numbers and what they include can be an important first step in understanding your options.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss nursing home costs, what factors influence pricing, and the different payment options available to help manage expenses — to help you make a confident and informed decision.
Differences Between Nursing Homes and Senior Living
If your loved one needs extra help with activities of daily living (ADLs) or ongoing medical attention, it might be helpful to explore available senior care services.
Two of the most common choices are nursing homes and senior living communities. While both options usually provide valuable support for older adults, the level of care, environment, and daily experience can vary greatly.
Let’s take a closer look at the differences:
- Level of Care Provided: Nursing homes provide 24/7 skilled nursing services and medical supervision for individuals recovering from surgery or those living with complex health conditions such as advanced cardiovascular disease or severe diabetes. While some senior living communities may offer health care services when needed, they may not be ideal for someone who needs intensive medical care.
- Type of Residents Served: Nursing homes typically care for individuals with chronic illnesses or medical conditions that require ongoing treatment and monitoring. In contrast, residents in senior living communities are mostly independent but need extra support in their day-to-day lives.
- Type of Employees: Most nursing homes have trained medical employees on-site, including licensed nurses, therapists, and doctors, to provide skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. In comparison, most senior living communities usually have caregivers and wellness employees who monitor residents’ well-being and coordinate with outside medical professionals as needed.
- Living Environment: Since nursing homes are more focused on supporting residents’ medical needs, they tend to have a more hospital-like atmosphere. Most senior living communities offer a comfortable, homelike environment to make residents’ lives even more meaningful and enjoyable.
- Daily Life and Activities: Because most residents usually have ongoing health care needs, nursing homes tend to offer fewer recreational opportunities. In contrast, most senior living communities provide plenty of fun-filled activities and programs that residents can enjoy.
- Cost Differences: Nursing homes provide a higher level of care and medical support and as such, they generally cost more than senior living communities. That said, the final cost depends on the level of care, the specific community, and your loved one’s unique needs.
Overview of Nursing Home Costs in 2025
Nursing home costs have been steadily rising, with a 7–9% year-over-year increase from 2024. According to the Genworth 2025 Cost of Care Survey, the average price of nursing home care in 2025 is around $9,555 per month. However, this can vary depending on whether you choose a private or semi-private room.
It’s important to know that the cost of nursing homes can differ significantly from state to state and even from one region to another. Factors such as local labor costs, demand for care, and community amenities all affect the monthly cost of care.
Typically, the monthly cost of nursing home care includes room and board, meals, assistance with daily activities like bathing and dressing, and 24/7 access to skilled nursing services.
Some communities may also include additional services, such as physical therapy, social programs, and recreational activities at an extra cost.
| Accommodation Type | Median Daily Cost | Median Monthly Cost | Median Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Private Room | $314 | $9,555 | $114,665 |
| Private Room | $361 | $10,965 | $131,583 |
Average Nursing Home Costs by State in 2025
Families often ask, How much does a nursing home cost? Costs can vary widely, depending on where you live and whether you choose a private or semi-private room.
Every state has its own average costs based on factors like staffing, local wages, and demand for long-term care. Northeastern and West Coast states typically have higher care costs, while many Midwestern and Southeastern states offer more affordable options.
For instance, a semi-private room in Texas averages around $5,639 per month, while in Alaska it’s closer to $31,282.
Below is an overview of nursing home costs by state:
| State | Average Monthly Cost of Semi-Private Room | Average Monthly Cost of Private Room |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $8,397 | $8,773 |
| Alaska | $31,282 | $31,282 |
| Arizona | $7,832 | $10,809 |
| Arkansas | $7,362 | $7,942 |
| California | $12,046 | $15,633 |
| Colorado | $10,339 | $12,000 |
| Connecticut | $15,508 | $17,074 |
| Delaware | $14,599 | $15,336 |
| District of Columbia | $11,952 | $15,664 |
| Florida | $10,652 | $11,905 |
| Georgia | $9,086 | $9,712 |
| Hawaii | $15,540 | $16,855 |
| Idaho | $10,370 | $11,028 |
| Illinois | $8,145 | $9,399 |
| Indiana | $8,741 | $10,668 |
| Iowa | $9,195 | $9,947 |
| Kansas | $7,989 | $8,773 |
| Kentucky | $8,992 | $10,244 |
| Louisiana | $7,707 | $7,832 |
| Maine | $13,315 | $14,302 |
| Maryland | $12,876 | $14,881 |
| Massachusetts | $14,881 | $16,009 |
| Michigan | $10,965 | $11,921 |
| Minnesota | $12,532 | $14,490 |
| Mississippi | $9,931 | $10,182 |
| Missouri | $6,548 | $7,362 |
| Montana | $9,336 | $9,712 |
| Nebraska | $8,631 | $10,339 |
| Nevada | $11,545 | $13,174 |
| New Hampshire | $12,845 | $13,534 |
| New Jersey | $12,751 | $14,788 |
| New Mexico | $10,057 | $11,028 |
| New York | $14,725 | $15,508 |
| North Carolina | $9,086 | $10,182 |
| North Dakota | $9,148 | $9,963 |
| Ohio | $9,305 | $10,339 |
| Oklahoma | $6,641 | $7,832 |
| Oregon | $16,292 | $17,607 |
| Pennsylvania | $12,187 | $13,347 |
| Rhode Island | $11,748 | $13,080 |
| South Carolina | $9,227 | $9,822 |
| South Dakota | $9,086 | $9,618 |
| Tennessee | $9,399 | $10,151 |
| Texas | $5,639 | $7,300 |
| Utah | $8,616 | $10,965 |
| Vermont | $14,099 | $15,664 |
| Virginia | $8,929 | $10,120 |
| Washington | $13,095 | $14,255 |
| West Virginia | $12,845 | $13,252 |
| Wisconsin | $10,370 | $11,592 |
| Wyoming | $10,213 | $10,636 |
Top 5 Most Expensive States for Nursing Home Care in 2025:
| State | Average Monthly Cost of Semi-Private Room | Average Monthly Cost of Private Room |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $31,282 | $31,282 |
| Oregon | $16,292 | $17,607 |
| Connecticut | $15,508 | $17,074 |
| Hawaii | $15,540 | $16,855 |
| Massachusetts | $14,881 | $16,009 |
Top 5 Least Expensive States for Nursing Home Care in 2025
| State | Average Monthly Cost of Semi-Private Room | Average Monthly Cost of Private Room |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | $5,639 | $7,300 |
| Missouri | $6,548 | $7,362 |
| Oklahoma | $6,641 | $7,832 |
| Arkansas | $7,362 | $7,942 |
| Louisiana | $7,707 | $7,832 |
Factors Influencing Nursing Home Costs
The cost of care in a nursing home can vary quite a bit depending on a few important factors, such as:
- Location: Where the nursing home is located plays a significant role in overall costs. Communities in large cities or coastal areas often have higher prices than those in smaller towns due to differences in living expenses, staffing costs, and local demand for skilled care.
- Level of Care: The level of care a person requires may also affect the total cost of care. A resident who needs occasional assistance will likely pay less than someone who needs constant medical supervision.
- Amenities and Services Provided: Each nursing home offers its own set of amenities and services, which can also influence the price. You’ll find communities that provide extras such as private dining rooms, transportation, therapy services, or wellness programs may charge more compared to those that don’t include as many added comforts or lifestyle features.
- Accommodation Type: The type of room you choose also affects how much you pay. While a private room offers more personal space and privacy, it may add to the overall cost.
- Duration of Stay: Whether your loved one is staying for short-term rehabilitation or long-term care will also impact expenses. Short-term stays for recovery often have higher daily rates due to the intensity of services, while long-term residents may have more stable monthly pricing.
- Specific Care Needs: Every resident’s care needs are unique. Someone who needs assistance with medication management alongside mobility support and therapy services may pay higher costs than someone with fewer medical needs.
Private vs. Semi-Private Rooms
When considering senior care options, the choice between a private and semi-private room in a nursing home can make a big difference in cost. A private room in a nursing home offers more personal space, privacy, and the ability to decorate or arrange the room to your loved one’s liking.
However, this added comfort comes at a higher price. In 2025, the average cost of a private room is about $1,410 more per month (or roughly $16,920 more per year) compared to a semi-private room.
Semi-private rooms, on the other hand, are usually more affordable. Moreover, sharing a room often encourages social interaction and companionship, which can be especially meaningful for residents who enjoy having someone nearby.
When choosing the right room and board option, consider your loved one’s comfort, privacy preferences, and care needs, along with the financial resources available. It’s also important to note that Medicaid typically covers only semi-private rooms, unless a private room is medically necessary.
What’s Included in Nursing Home Costs
Nursing homes provide a wide range of care services for residents who need ongoing medical support. When researching the cost of care in a nursing home, it helps to know exactly what’s included in the monthly rate and what may come at an extra cost.
Most nursing homes offer a base monthly rate that covers essential living expenses and basic custodial care.
This cost typically includes:
- Room and board: Most nursing homes provide comfortable accommodations and three meals a day, often tailored to meet residents’ nutritional needs.
- 24/7 skilled nursing care and monitoring: Medical employees and caregivers are usually available around the clock to provide continuous support and monitoring.
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs): Oftentimes, nursing home costs also include help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, transferring, or feeding.
- Medication management: Caregivers typically help residents take their prescriptions correctly and on schedule.
- Housekeeping and laundry: Employees take care of housekeeping and laundry tasks.
- Basic recreational activities: Some communities may offer group programs, such as crafts or light exercise classes, to help residents stay active and engaged.
Some communities provide extra services, often at an additional cost. These can include:
- Specialized therapies, such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy
- Personal care items and toiletries, which the community may not supply.
- Cable TV, phone, or internet access
- Beauty salon or barber services
- Special dietary needs, such as diabetic or allergy-sensitive meals.
- Dedicated memory care neighborhood for those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
- Transportation services for medical appointments or outings outside the community.
Alternatives to Nursing Homes
If a nursing home doesn’t seem like the right fit, there are several other senior care options that can provide the necessary care and support for your loved one, such as:
- Assisted Living Communities: Assisted living can be an excellent option if your family member needs some help with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, dressing, and managing medications.
- In-Home Care: In-home care provides an excellent option for seniors who prefer to receive assistance in the comfort of their own homes. While home health services can often be tailored to an individual’s care needs, costs can quickly add up, especially if round-the-clock assistance is required.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): As our loved ones age, it’s normal for their needs to change over time. CCRCs offer multiple levels of care, from independent living to skilled nursing care, allowing residents to receive the right support for their changing needs within the same community.
- Hospice Care: Caring for a loved one with a terminal condition can be a deeply emotional and stressful journey. Hospice communities provide compassionate support and comfort for people with terminal conditions and their families. Services offered may include managing pain and symptoms, counseling, and respite care for families.
- Family Caregiving: Family caregiving can be a fantastic option for families that have the ability and resources to care for their loved one at home.
How to Pay for Nursing Home Care
Nursing home costs can add up. Thankfully, there are plenty of payment methods you can explore, including:
Medicare
One of the most common questions families have is whether Medicare or Medicaid will pay for nursing home care. Medicare can help cover the cost of skilled nursing services, but it does not cover long-term custodial care.
To qualify, your loved one must meet specific conditions:
- They must have had a qualifying hospital stay of at least three consecutive days.
- Their doctor must certify that they require skilled nursing care or rehabilitation services on a daily basis.
- The care must take place in a Medicare-certified skilled nursing community.
Here’s how the coverage typically works in 2025:
- Days 1–20: Medicare covers 100% of the cost after a qualifying hospital stay.
- Days 21–100: You’ll be responsible for a copay of $209.50 per day. Medicare pays the remaining balance.
- After 100 days: Medicare does not usually pay for additional days in a skilled nursing community.
It’s important to remember that Medicare is meant for short-term skilled nursing care — not for ongoing, long-term support such as help with bathing, dressing, or eating (known as custodial care). If your loved one needs care beyond what Medicare covers, you may need to look into other payment options such as Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or private pay.
Before making any decisions, consider reaching out to a Medicare representative or an elder law attorney. They can help you understand your loved one’s eligibility, review coverage limits, and explore programs that could reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that pays for long-term nursing home care for individuals who meet certain income and asset limits — typically less than $2,000 in countable assets and around $2,900 in monthly income (amounts may vary by state). If your loved one needs long-term care and their savings are limited, Medicaid may help cover the cost of a nursing home.
Each state determines its own eligibility rules, so it’s important to check your state’s specific requirements. However, Medicaid usually covers a semi-private room, along with meals, personal care, and basic medical services.
If your loved one may need Medicaid in the future, consider Medicaid planning — which can include protecting certain assets or setting up trusts. To apply, contact your state’s Medicaid office or a local Area Agency on Aging for guidance through the process.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance policies can help cover the costs of nursing home care and other long-term care services. These policies are best purchased before age 65, while you’re still in good health and can qualify for affordable rates.
Coverage varies by policy, but most plans pay a daily benefit amount — for example, $150 to $300 per day — toward types of long-term care, such as nursing homes, assisted living, or in-home care. Some policies also cover care coordination or respite services for family caregivers.
Premiums depend on your age, health, and coverage amount, so it’s important to compare options early. Before purchasing, review the fine print carefully to understand waiting periods, coverage limits, and inflation protection. A financial advisor can help you find a plan that fits your long-term care options and budget.
Personal Savings and Investments
Many families rely on personal savings to cover long-term care costs. This can include funds from savings accounts, investments, pensions, or proceeds from selling a home.
However, it’s essential to plan ahead, since nursing home care can cost thousands of dollars each month, and expenses can add up quickly. Consider setting aside funds early, creating a budget, and consulting a financial planner to help you manage your resources effectively.
Veterans’ Benefits
If your loved one is a veteran or the surviving spouse of one, veterans’ benefits can help cover the cost of nursing home care. The VA Aid and Attendance benefit provides monthly financial assistance to eligible individuals who need help with daily activities. In 2025, the benefit can be up to $2,358 per month for a veteran or $1,515 for a surviving spouse.
The Department of Veterans Affairs also operates VA nursing home communities, which offer skilled nursing and long-term care to qualifying veterans. Eligibility typically depends on factors such as service history, income, disability status, and care needs.
To get started, contact your local VA office or a veterans service officer to learn more about available programs and how to apply.
Family Contribution and Support
In some cases, family members may decide to share the financial responsibility of a loved one’s nursing home costs. It’s often helpful to have honest conversations about finances to make sure the arrangement feels fair and manageable for everyone involved.
Payment Plans and Financing Options
If paying the full cost upfront feels overwhelming, ask about payment plans or financing options. Many nursing homes work with families to create manageable monthly payments.
Reverse Mortgages
For some older adults, a reverse mortgage can help cover the cost of nursing home care. This option allows homeowners aged 62 or older to borrow against the equity in their home without selling it. The funds can be used to cover care costs. However, once the homeowner permanently moves out or passes away, the loan must be repaid, usually through the sale of the home. Because reverse mortgages can affect inheritance and long-term financial plans, it’s best to speak with a trusted financial advisor before making a decision.
Life Insurance Policy Conversions
Some life insurance policies can be converted into funds to help families pay for nursing home costs. This process, often called a life settlement or long-term care conversion, allows policyholders to sell or repurpose their existing policy for a portion of its value. The funds can then be used toward long-term care services, including nursing home expenses. The amount received typically depends on factors like the policy type, age, and health of the insured. Because this option can impact future benefits or estate planning, it’s important to review it carefully with a financial advisor or insurance specialist before making any changes.
Annuities
An annuity is a financial product that turns your savings into a steady monthly income. You pay a lump sum to an insurance company, and in return, they send you regular payments for a set number of years or for life. Some annuities even increase the payments if you need long-term care, like a nursing home stay. This can make it easier to plan for long-term care costs. Before choosing one, it’s best to talk with a financial advisor to understand the terms and if it’s right for you.
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Senior Living Compared To Staying In Place
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Nursing Home vs. Other Senior Care Options
When considering different types of long-term care for an aging loved one, it helps to understand available options and how they compare. Below is a quick comparison to help you see how nursing homes compare to other common alternatives, like home health, assisted living, and memory care:
| Care Option | Average Monthly Cost | Level of Care Provided | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Home | $8,500–$9,500+ | 24/7 skilled nursing, medical monitoring, and personal care | Seniors needing ongoing medical care or rehabilitation from illness or injury |
| Assisted Living | ~$5,900 | Help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and medical support can be arranged | People who need some assistance while still living life on their own terms |
| Memory Care | $6,500–$8,500 | Safe and supportive environment, specialized dementia and Alzheimer’s care | Individuals who need specialized care supervision due to memory conditions |
| Home Health Aides | $6,000–$7,000 (part-time) | In-home personal care, medication reminders, companionship | People who need moderate help with their routine but prefer to stay home |
| 24/7 In-Home Care | $21,000–$24,000 | Continuous in-home support and medical care | Individuals needing constant support and supervision but wish to remain at home |
| Adult Day Care | ~$2,000 | Daytime supervision, meals, and activities | Seniors living with family who need daytime care or social engagement |
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Loved One
Making a decision about your loved one’s care is never easy. With many options available, it’s important to choose one that truly feels right for both you and your loved one.
Here are some practical tips to help guide you:
- Understand your loved one’s needs: Typically, your loved one’s needs dictate the level of care they require. Does your family member need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing and dressing, or do they require specialized medical care? Writing down their medical, emotional, and social needs can help you narrow down the right care option.
- Consider their preferences: Does your loved one prefer to remain at home, or are they open to living in a community setting? Have an open conversation and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.
- Tour a few communities: Often, the best way to understand life in a community is to see it firsthand. If possible, tour a few communities with your loved one to get a true sense of daily life there.
- Seek professional advice: While supporting a loved one can feel incredibly rewarding, the day-to-day demands of caregiving can take a toll. If that’s the case for you, consider consulting an elder law attorney, geriatric care manager, or social worker. They can help you explore additional support services, including the best nursing home for your loved one’s care needs.
Nursing Home Cost Trends and Future Projections
According to national reports, nursing home care costs have risen by an average annual rate of 7% to 9% in recent years. While the exact amount can vary by state and community, these rising expenses make planning for future care more important than ever.
Several factors contribute to higher care costs. Inflation has affected nearly every industry, including health care. In addition, ongoing labor shortages have led to increased wages for skilled nursing employees, all while the growing demand for senior care services continues to drive prices up. With more older adults needing long-term care, nursing home costs are also expected to climb. By 2030, the average cost of a private nursing home room could exceed $14,000 per month in some areas. Even semi-private rooms may reach well over $12,000 monthly, depending on where you live. Planning for long-term care costs makes all the difference in ensuring your loved one receives quality care in the years ahead.
Tax Deductions and Financial Planning
Many families don’t realize that certain medical costs related to nursing home care may qualify for deductions. If your loved one’s stay in a nursing home is primarily for medical reasons — such as receiving skilled nursing care, therapy, or rehabilitation — these costs may be deductible as medical expenses on your tax return. This can include the cost of room and board, meals, and medical services provided by the nursing home. However, if the stay is custodial, only the portion of the expenses related to medical care can be deducted.
That said, nursing home costs are generally fully deductible if your loved one is admitted for ongoing medical treatment or requires daily assistance with activities of daily living, such as transferring or feeding. To claim these deductions, you must itemize medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, as required by the IRS.
Because every situation is unique, it’s often best to talk with a financial advisor or elder law attorney who can help you plan ahead and organize your resources, including long-term care insurance, Medicaid eligibility, and any tax benefits available to your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Home Costs
As you consider additional support services for your loved one, it’s normal to have questions along the way. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about nursing home costs:
Learn How Much Senior Living Costs Near You
Senior living communities offer a warm and supportive environment for older adults. While it’s difficult to put a price on your loved one’s care, understanding senior living costs is a crucial step when planning ahead. Our cost calculator provides a clearer view of what to expect financially so you can find the option that best matches your specific needs and budget.
Senior Living With StoryPoint Group Communities
At StoryPoint Group communities, we recognize that every resident is unique. That’s why we take pride in meeting each person right where they are — offering the right level of support for their specific needs and providing the best experience possible every day.
If you or someone you love could benefit from senior care, including the best nursing services, we’d love to be part of your journey. To learn what it’s like to live with us, contact us or call 1-844-275-9990. We can’t wait to get to know you!
