Average Nursing Home Costs in the USA (2025)
Data from the 2025 Genworth Cost of Care Survey shows that national median costs for nursing homes continue to rise. The price is highly dependent on whether you choose a private or semi-private room.
- Semi-private room: The national median monthly cost for a semi-private room in 2025 is $9,555, which equates to an annual cost of $114,665.
- Private room: For a private room, the national median monthly cost in 2025 is $10,965, or an annual cost of $131,583.
How Location Influences Nursing Home Costs
Your geographical location is one of the most significant factors affecting the price of long-term care. Costs can vary dramatically from state to state and even by metro area, reflecting differences in the cost of living, regulations, and labor costs.
- Most Expensive States: In 2025, states like Alaska have some of the highest median monthly costs for a semi-private room, reaching $31,282. Other high-cost areas include California and parts of the Pacific Northwest.
- Least Expensive States: Cheaper options can be found in states like Texas and Missouri, where median monthly costs for a semi-private room are significantly lower. For example, Texas has semi-private room costs as low as $5,639 per month.
Comparing Nursing Homes to Other Care Options
It is important to compare nursing homes to other types of senior care to understand why they are often the most expensive option. Nursing homes provide the highest level of medical care and 24/7 skilled nursing supervision, unlike assisted living facilities.
| Feature | Nursing Home | Assisted Living | In-Home Care (Health Aide) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level of Care | 24/7 skilled medical and personal care | Help with daily living activities (bathing, dressing) | Assistance with tasks in your own home |
| Cost (2025 Monthly) | $9,555 (semi-private) - $10,965 (private) | ~ $6,129 (median) | ~$6,483 (44 hrs/week) |
| Room & Board | Included | Included | Not included |
| Eligibility | Requires a physician's recommendation for skilled care | Typically no medical eligibility required | Requires specific medical needs for skilled care coverage |
| Medicare Coverage | Limited, primarily for short-term skilled care | Generally does not cover | Can cover part-time skilled services under certain conditions |
Factors That Influence Nursing Home Cost
In addition to location, several other factors contribute to the total cost of a nursing home stay:
- Level of Care: Facilities often use a tiered pricing structure. A resident needing intensive or specialized medical care, such as for memory loss, will have a higher price point than a long-term resident needing less extensive support.
- Room Type: A private room is almost always more expensive than a semi-private or shared room.
- Services and Amenities: Some facilities have all-inclusive rates, while others charge extra for specific services like physical therapy, speech therapy, or specialized memory care. Amenities such as larger rooms or specific activities can also increase the cost.
- Demand and Occupancy: In areas with higher demand and lower availability of beds, prices tend to be higher. Data shows that rising occupancy rates can drive up prices.
How to Pay for a Nursing Home
With costs exceeding $100,000 annually, families have several options to consider for payment:
- Medicaid: The primary payer for long-term care in the U.S., Medicaid can cover 100% of the cost for eligible individuals in a certified facility, though they must contribute most of their income. Eligibility is strict and varies by state.
- Medicare: Does not cover long-term custodial care. It provides limited coverage for short-term skilled nursing facility stays of up to 100 days following a qualifying hospital stay. After 20 days, daily coinsurance applies.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Private policies can help cover nursing home costs, but premiums can be expensive, especially if purchased later in life. Benefits often have waiting periods.
- Personal Savings and Assets: Many people use their own savings, investments, or income from pensions and Social Security to pay for care out-of-pocket.
- Veterans Benefits: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides financial assistance for veterans needing long-term care, subject to specific eligibility requirements and coverage limitations.
Conclusion
Understanding how much a nursing home costs in the USA requires a clear picture of national median rates, state-by-state variations, and the factors that influence pricing, such as room type and the level of medical care provided. In 2025, a private room can cost over $130,000 annually. While expensive, there are options for paying for care, including private funds, long-term care insurance, and government programs like Medicaid and limited Medicare coverage. Financial planning is essential for ensuring access to the necessary care while managing expenses. Exploring local facilities and comparing costs based on care needs is a crucial first step.
Additional Resource
For state-specific cost data and to learn more about planning for long-term care, consult the Genworth Cost of Care Survey at genworth.com.
