How Much Does 24/7 In-Home Care Cost Per Month?

Last Updated on March 18, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

24/7 in-home care is a lifeline for seniors and individuals with disabilities who need constant assistance but prefer staying in the comfort of their own homes. This type of care provides personalized attention, whether it’s help with daily tasks, medical care, or companionship. However, families often wonder: how much does 24/7 in-home care cost per month?

The cost of care depends on several factors, including the type of services required, the caregiver’s qualifications, and where you live. This guide will explore the cost of 24/7 in-home care, breaking it down by pricing models, state-by-state differences, and payment options. We’ll also focus on how families can save money while ensuring their loved ones receive the best possible care.

How Much Does 24/7 In-Home Care Cost Per Month?

National and State-Specific Cost Averages

The national average cost of 24/7 in-home care ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 per month. However, these costs vary depending on where you live. States with higher costs of living, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts, tend to charge more for in-home care—often exceeding $25,000 per month.

In contrast, states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama offer more affordable options, with monthly costs ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. Rural areas are generally less expensive than urban centers, although finding qualified caregivers in less populated regions can be more challenging.

Here’s a general cost comparison for 24/7 in-home care:

Location	Monthly Cost Range
Urban Areas	$20,000 – $25,000
Suburban Areas	$15,000 – $20,000
Rural Areas	$10,000 – $15,000

Hourly, Daily, and Monthly Pricing Models

Caregivers typically charge hourly rates, which range from $20 to $35 per hour depending on their qualifications and the type of care provided. For 24-hour care, hourly rates translate into:

• Daily cost: $480 to $840
• Monthly cost: $14,400 to $25,200

Some families opt for live-in caregivers, who are paid a flat rate instead of hourly wages. Live-in care is generally less expensive, costing between $8,000 and $12,000 per month. However, additional fees may apply for overtime, transportation, or specialized services like dementia care.

Agencies often charge more than independent caregivers due to administrative fees, background checks, and liability insurance. While agency caregivers cost more, they provide families with added peace of mind.

According to AR Home Care, the national median cost for 24/7 home care reaches $21,823 per month, based on shift-based care models. This translates to an hourly rate of $30. In specific states like California, the monthly cost can be as high as $25,200, while in Georgia, it averages $17,712. Live-in caregivers charge between $200 and $350 per day, offering a slightly more affordable option for continuous support without constant medical supervision.

On Global One Home Care, the average monthly cost for 24/7 in-home care is $18,144, with rates ranging from $15,000 to over $25,000 depending on the location and care type. Cities with a higher cost of living, such as Boston, tend to have costs on the upper end of this range. States like Mississippi and Kentucky offer more affordable options, with average monthly costs of $16,000 and $16,640, respectively.

The article on Kizuna Care reports that families in the US typically pay between $10,000 and $20,000 per month for 24/7 in-home care. However, in high-cost areas like San Francisco, Marin, and Sonoma County, monthly costs can exceed $20,000 due to higher wages and living expenses.

According to TheKey, the median cost for home health aide services is $27 per hour, resulting in a monthly cost of $18,144 for 24/7 care. This pricing reflects national averages and can vary based on local caregiver rates and the level of care needed.

Lastly, Ultimate Care NY also reports the national average monthly cost for 24/7 in-home care as $18,144, based on an hourly rate of $27. This figure highlights the consistency in pricing across different regions, though local variations exist.

What Is 24/7 In-Home Care?

24/7 in-home care involves continuous support provided by caregivers who either live in the home or work on rotating shifts. This type of care is ideal for seniors, people with chronic illnesses, or individuals recovering from surgery who need constant assistance. The care can range from basic daily support, like help with bathing and meals, to more intensive services such as medical care by skilled nurses.

Unlike nursing homes or assisted living facilities, in-home care allows patients to remain in a familiar environment. It also offers a more personalized approach since caregivers can focus entirely on the individual. This makes it a preferred option for families prioritizing comfort and quality of life.

Why Do Costs Vary?

The cost of 24/7 in-home care depends on several factors, including the patient’s medical needs, the caregiver’s qualifications, and the geographic location. For example, care in urban areas tends to be more expensive than in rural regions. Additionally, skilled nursing care costs more than basic companion care, and hiring through an agency often comes with higher rates than hiring an independent caregiver.

Families also face additional expenses, such as overtime fees, transportation costs for caregivers, and supplies like medical equipment. Understanding these variables is crucial to calculating the monthly cost of care.

Factors Affecting the Cost

Type of Care Provided

The type of care required plays a significant role in determining costs. Non-medical care, such as companionship, light housekeeping, and meal preparation, is more affordable than skilled nursing care, which includes tasks like wound care, injections, and chronic condition management.

Patients with complex medical needs, such as those with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, or mobility impairments, often require specialized caregivers, which can add $200 to $500 per month to the cost.

Caregiver Qualifications and Experience

You might also like our articles on the cost of nursing home insurance, assisted living, or Medicare.

The qualifications and experience of caregivers impact their rates:

• Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): $15 to $25 per hour
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): $20 to $35 per hour
• Registered Nurses (RNs): $35 to $55 per hour

Hiring through an agency generally costs more than hiring an independent caregiver, but agencies handle background checks, training, and scheduling, which can save families time and effort.

Location and Regional Price Differences

Geographic location significantly affects the cost of 24/7 care. Urban areas, such as Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago, typically have higher caregiver rates due to increased wages and demand. In contrast, rural areas offer lower rates, though availability may be limited.

Additionally, state labor laws and minimum wage regulations can impact caregiver costs. For instance, states with higher minimum wages often have higher hourly rates for in-home care providers.

How to Pay for 24/7 In-Home Care

Private Pay and Out-of-Pocket Costs

Many families pay for in-home care out of pocket using savings, retirement accounts, or home equity. This is often the fastest way to secure care but can strain a family’s finances over time. Some families use annuities or reverse mortgages to generate income for long-term care expenses.

Insurance Coverage for Home Care

Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors, covers limited in-home care services, such as skilled nursing or therapy, but does not pay for long-term 24/7 care. Medicaid, on the other hand, may provide full or partial coverage for eligible patients, though qualifications vary by state.

Long-term care insurance policies are another option, covering a portion of in-home care costs. Premiums for these policies vary, but they can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Government Assistance and Financial Aid Programs

Government programs like Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and state Medicaid waivers can help offset the cost of in-home care. For example, the VA’s Aid and Attendance program provides financial assistance to eligible veterans and their spouses.

Additionally, some states offer grants or subsidies for family caregivers, as well as community support programs to reduce costs. Families should explore all available resources to make care more affordable.

24/7 In-Home Care vs. Other Options

Home Care vs. Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities provide housing and support for seniors, with costs ranging from $4,000 to $7,000 per month. While they are more affordable than 24/7 in-home care, they do not offer the same level of personalized attention or independence. In-home care allows seniors to remain in their own homes, a key factor for many families.

Home Care vs. Nursing Homes

The average cost of nursing home care is $8,000 to $10,000 per month, which is less expensive than 24/7 in-home care. However, nursing homes often provide a more clinical environment, which may not align with a patient’s preferences for comfort and familiarity.

Home Care vs. Adult Daycare

Adult daycare programs offer supervised care during the day for $50 to $150 per day, making them a more affordable option for families who need temporary assistance. However, they do not provide overnight care or the same level of support as 24/7 in-home services.

Expert Tips

Tip: Explore Financial Aid Programs

Dr. Leona Harbinger, a senior care advisor at Eldercare Solutions Group, recommends researching financial aid programs like Medicaid waivers and VA benefits. “Many families don’t realize they qualify for government assistance that can significantly reduce costs,” she explains.

Tip: Compare Agencies and Independent Caregivers

Todd Vynheim, a licensed geriatric care manager at Home Care Advocates, advises families to compare multiple care providers. “Agencies offer convenience, but hiring an independent caregiver can save 20–30% on monthly costs,” he notes.

Tip: Use Respite Care for Short-Term Relief

Kendra Solverson, a hospice care specialist at Compassionate Care Network, suggests using respite care services to give family caregivers a break. “Respite care is more affordable than full-time care and can be a great way to manage costs while maintaining quality care,” she says.

Final Words

The cost of 24/7 in-home care, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per month, reflects the personalized and comprehensive support it provides for seniors or individuals with disabilities. While this option can be expensive, families have access to various payment methods, including private pay, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, and government programs like VA benefits.

Exploring cost-saving strategies, such as hiring independent caregivers or utilizing respite care, can help make this essential service more affordable. By carefully assessing both financial resources and care needs, families can determine whether 24/7 in-home care is the right choice to ensure their loved ones remain comfortable and well-supported at home.

Answers to Common Questions

What happens when you need 24-hour care?

When you need 24-hour care, caregivers provide continuous support for daily tasks, medical needs, and overall well-being. This care can be delivered by live-in caregivers or through rotating shifts of multiple caregivers to ensure constant attention.

What is the most common home care service?

The most common home care service is personal care assistance, which includes help with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping. These services are essential for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need assistance with daily activities.

What happens when you stop being a carer?

When you stop being a carer, it’s important to transition the responsibilities to another qualified individual or agency. This ensures the patient continues to receive the care they need while you take time to focus on your own well-being.