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Understanding In-Home Care

Care that comes home

Getting older shouldn't mean leaving the place you love. We help families understand in-home care, from types and costs to finding the right provider, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

12M+
Americans receiving home care
90%
Prefer aging in place
$30/hr
National median cost

In-home care isn't one thing.
It's many — and knowing the difference matters.

From a companion who visits a few hours a week to round-the-clock skilled nursing, in-home care covers a wide spectrum. Understanding where your family falls on that spectrum is the first step to getting the right help.

"The best care doesn't feel like care. It feels like kindness."

Every family's journey is different. We're here to help you understand your options — clearly, honestly, without the sales pitch.

What Does In-Home Care Cost?

Costs vary significantly by location, care type, and hours needed. Here's what families typically pay.

National Averages (2025)

Source: Genworth
Homemaker / Companion $27 / hour
Home Health Aide $30 / hour
Skilled Nursing (RN) $75 / hour
20 hrs/wk (aide) $2,600 / month
44 hrs/wk (aide) $5,720 / month
24/7 Live-In Care $15,000+ / month

Check Rates in Your Area

Enter your ZIP code to see estimated in-home care costs near you.

How to Pay for Care

Medicare
Skilled care only, doctor-ordered
Medicaid
Varies by state; income-based
LTC Insurance
Covers most care types
VA Benefits
Aid & Attendance program

Data based on 2025 Genworth Cost of Care Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Actual costs vary by provider and location.

National In-Home Care Providers

Some of the largest networks operating in the US. Informational — not an endorsement. See our vetting checklist before you call.

Home Instead2,200+ locations worldwide

One of the largest home care franchises. Specializes in Alzheimer's and dementia care, companion care, and personal care for seniors.

Companion Personal Care Alzheimer's Hospice Support

Visiting Angels600+ offices in the US

Franchise network offering non-medical home care. Known for flexible scheduling and a "Select Your Caregiver" approach.

Companion Personal Care Respite End of Life

Comfort Keepers700+ locations

Provides "Interactive Caregiving" that engages seniors mentally, physically, and emotionally. Offers in-home and community-based care.

Companion Personal Care Transportation 24-Hour

BAYADA Home Health360+ offices, 23 states

One of the few national agencies offering both medical and non-medical care. Strong in pediatric and adult skilled nursing.

Skilled Nursing Therapy Personal Care Pediatric

Right at Home500+ locations worldwide

Franchise network focused on helping seniors maintain independence at home. Offers custom care plans with flexible scheduling options.

Companion Personal Care Skilled Nursing Respite

AmedisysMedicare-certified, 37 states

Major Medicare-certified home health provider. Strong in skilled nursing, physical therapy, and post-hospital recovery programs.

Skilled Nursing Physical Therapy Hospice Medicare

In-Home Care Guides

Expert articles on navigating care for your family

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common questions. Dive deeper on our care types and costs pages.

In-home care is professional assistance provided in a person's own home. It ranges from companion care (help with daily tasks, conversation, errands) to skilled nursing (wound care, IV therapy, post-surgical monitoring). Most families start with non-medical personal care. Learn about all care types →
The national median is approximately $30–$35 per hour for a home health aide, though rates vary significantly by state. Most families need 20–40 hours per week, making the monthly range roughly $2,400–$6,000. Use our ZIP code tool above to check rates in your area, or read the full cost guide →
Medicare covers skilled home health care (nursing, therapy) when ordered by a doctor. However, it does NOT cover long-term custodial care — help with bathing, dressing, cooking, or companionship. Medicaid, LTC insurance, and VA benefits may help. See all payment options →
Family celebrating with home caregiver

Not sure where to start?

Understanding in-home care can feel overwhelming. Use our chat assistant to ask questions specific to your family's situation — costs, care types, what to look for in a provider, and more.

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