Cost of Nursing Homes in 2026
The national median is $8,669/month, based on 14,622 nursing homes providers we track. Use the calculator to estimate your specific situation, or pick a state for local rates.
Estimate your monthly cost
Based on the national median. Pick a state below for local rates.
Short-term rehab after a hospital stay is often covered by Medicare for up to 100 days.
Your estimate
$9,969 /month
This is a directional estimate based on median rates in your area and the options you selected. Actual costs vary by provider and can increase over time.
What the range looks like nationally
25th percentile
$8,000
Median
$8,669
75th percentile
$9,733
Cost of nursing homes by state
How families pay for nursing homes
Most nursing homes is paid privately by families. Medicare does not cover long-term care in this category (with limited exceptions for short-term skilled nursing). Medicaid covers care in many states through HCBS waivers, though usually not room and board. Veterans and surviving spouses often qualify for the VA Aid & Attendance benefit ($1,500 to $2,500 per month). Long-term care insurance policies vary widely.
Full payment breakdown on the nursing homes guideFrequently asked questions
How much does nursing homes cost per month?
The national median for nursing homes is $8,669/month, based on 14,622 providers we track. State-by-state medians vary widely; use the calculator above or pick a state below to see local rates.
Does Medicare pay for nursing homes?
Medicare covers up to 100 days per benefit period in a skilled nursing facility after a qualifying 3-day hospital stay, and only while skilled care is medically necessary. Medicare does not cover long-term custodial nursing home care.
Does Medicaid pay for nursing homes?
Medicaid coverage for nursing homes varies by state. Most states have HCBS waivers that cover personal care services, though not usually room and board. Check with providers in your state to see which Medicaid programs they accept.
How can I lower the cost of nursing homes?
Options include: VA Aid & Attendance for qualifying veterans and surviving spouses ($1,500 to $2,500 per month), long-term care insurance if a policy is in place, choosing a shared or smaller room, and reducing add-on services. Some providers offer discounts for longer-term commitments.
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We track 14,622 nursing homes providers across 51 states. Filter by rating, cost cap, and payment types.
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