How much is board and care in California? A 2025 Cost Guide

California's elderly population is projected to grow significantly, increasing the demand for senior care options. Understanding how much is board and care in California is a critical first step for families navigating this important decision.

Quick Summary

The monthly cost for board and care in California typically ranges from approximately $3,500 to over $7,000, primarily influenced by the home's geographic location, the resident's specific care needs, and the size of the room they occupy.

Key Points

• Cost Drivers: Board and care home costs in California are mainly influenced by location, the resident's specific care needs, room type, and included services.

• Price Range: Expect a wide monthly price range, from approximately $3,500 in less urban areas to over $7,000 in higher-cost metropolitan regions like the Bay Area and Los Angeles.

• Services Included: Monthly fees typically cover assistance with daily living, meals, medication management, housekeeping, and social activities.

• Financing Options: Ways to pay include private funds, long-term care insurance, specific Medi-Cal waivers, and Veterans' benefits.

• Small vs. Large: Board and care homes are smaller than assisted living facilities, offering a more intimate, home-like environment with a higher staff-to-resident ratio.

• Research is Key: When choosing a home, it's vital to assess needs, visit multiple locations, check state licensing records, and review all contractual agreements carefully.

Understanding Board and Care in California

Board and care homes, also known as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs), are smaller, non-medical homes located in residential neighborhoods. They serve fewer residents than assisted living facilities, often 15 or fewer, providing a more intimate setting with a higher staff-to-resident ratio. These homes offer assistance with daily living activities for seniors who do not require continuous skilled nursing care.

Factors Influencing Board and Care Costs

Several factors determine the cost of board and care in California:

• Geographic Location: Costs are higher in metropolitan coastal areas like San Francisco and Los Angeles compared to rural or inland regions.
• Level of Care Required: The more assistance a resident needs with daily activities or specialized care (like dementia care), the higher the cost.
• Room Type: Private rooms are more expensive than shared rooms.
• Additional Services and Amenities: Extra fees may apply for specialized services or specific dietary needs.

A Regional Breakdown of Costs

In 2025, average monthly costs vary by region:

• Bay Area: Often ranges from $5,000 to over $10,000 per month, particularly for private rooms.
• Southern California: Can start at $6,000 or more per month for a private room in areas like Los Angeles.
• Central Valley: More affordable, with costs potentially starting closer to $3,500 for a shared room.
• Other Areas: Pricing falls between these extremes, based on local market conditions.

What Services are Typically Included?

Monthly fees usually cover:

• Personalized Care: Assistance with activities like bathing and dressing.
• Meals and Nutrition: Three daily meals and snacks.
• Medication Management: Assistance with taking medication.
• Housekeeping and Laundry: Regular cleaning and laundry services.
• Supervision: 24/7 monitoring for safety.
• Activities: Social and recreational programs.

Board and Care vs. Other Options: A Cost Comparison

Feature	Board and Care Home	Assisted Living Facility	Skilled Nursing Facility	Home Care
Setting	Small, residential home	Apartment-style units in a larger community	Clinical, hospital-like setting	In the senior's own home
Average Cost (Monthly, CA)	$$3,500 - $7,000+	$$5,000 - $12,000+	$$10,000 - $15,000+	$$5,000 - $8,000+
Resident Population	Up to 15 residents	16+ residents	Medical patients with higher needs	N/A
Level of Care	Non-medical, custodial	Non-medical, custodial with more options	24/7 skilled nursing	Tailored to individual needs
Best For	Seniors needing personal care in a family-like setting	Socially active seniors wanting community and independence	Medically fragile seniors needing intense care	Seniors who want to age in place

Financing Options for Board and Care in California

Families can finance board and care through various methods:

Private Funds

• Personal Savings: Using savings, investments, or home sale proceeds.
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Policies may cover some or all costs.

Government Programs

• Medi-Cal's Assisted Living Waiver Program: Available in specific counties for eligible low-income seniors.
• Veterans' Aid and Attendance Benefit: Financial assistance for eligible veterans and spouses.

Other Options

• Bridge Loans: Short-term loans for immediate needs.
• Reverse Mortgages: Converting home equity to cash for homeowners aged 62 and older.

How to Choose the Right Board and Care Home

Selecting a home involves more than cost consideration. Key steps include:

1. Assess Needs: Determine the senior's care requirements and preferences.
2. Visit Facilities: Tour multiple homes to observe the environment.
3. Check Licensing: Verify state licensing and review inspection records.
4. Understand the Contract: Carefully review all terms, services, fees, and policies.
5. Talk to Others: Speak with residents, families, and staff about their experiences.

Choosing the right board and care home is a significant decision requiring careful research and financial planning. The intimate setting can be ideal for many seniors. For further information on senior care and financing in California, consult official state resources, such as those from the California Department of Social Services regarding the Community Care Expansion program.

The Final Word on Board and Care Costs

Board and care homes in California offer a personalized alternative to larger facilities. While costs vary significantly by location and care needs, understanding these factors and exploring financing options allows families to make an informed choice for their loved one's well-being and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average monthly cost of board and care in California?

The average monthly cost for board and care in California can range significantly, typically between $3,500 and $7,000 or more. The final price depends on factors like geographic location, the level of care required by the resident, and whether they have a private or shared room.

How do board and care home costs compare to assisted living facilities?

Board and care homes generally cost less than larger assisted living facilities. This is because assisted living often includes more amenities and social programming, while board and care provides a more intimate, home-like setting for fewer residents. Assisted living can cost over $5,000 monthly, while board and care may be more affordable for basic needs.

Does Medi-Cal cover the cost of board and care in California?

Generally, Medi-Cal does not cover the full cost of residential care. However, California offers a specific Assisted Living Waiver Program for eligible low-income individuals in certain counties, which can help cover the cost of board and care services.

What services are included in the standard board and care price?

Most standard board and care packages include assistance with daily living activities, all meals and snacks, housekeeping, laundry services, medication management, and social or recreational activities. Specialized care services may come with additional costs.

Are board and care home costs higher in certain parts of California?

Yes, costs vary dramatically based on location. Prices are significantly higher in areas with a high cost of living, such as the Bay Area and Southern California, compared to more rural or inland areas like the Central Valley.

What is the difference in cost between a private and a shared room?

Private rooms are typically more expensive than shared rooms. In a board and care home, the price difference can be substantial, and opting for a shared room is a common strategy for families seeking more affordable care.

How can I find out the specific cost for a particular board and care home?

To get an exact cost, you must contact the individual board and care home directly and request a full disclosure of their pricing structure. Prices are based on a resident's individual care assessment, and fees for additional services should be clearly specified in the admission agreement.