The hourly cost of in-home care varies by care type and region; here's what to expect in 2025.
What does in-home care cost per hour by type?
Hourly rates rise with the level of care. Companion care (non-medical support, errands, supervision) typically runs $25โ$32 per hour. Personal care and home health aides, who provide hands-on help with bathing and dressing, average about $34 per hour nationally in 2025, per Genworth. Skilled care from licensed nurses costs much more โ $40 to $100+ per hour for private duty nursing. These are medians; your local rate depends on geography, the agency, and timing. Knowing which level your loved one needs is the first step to an accurate estimate.
What factors change the hourly cost?
Location is the largest factor โ high-cost coastal and metro areas often top $40 an hour, while parts of the South and Midwest cost less. Other factors: agency versus independent hiring (agencies cost more but include insurance, screening, and backup), weekend, overnight, and holiday premiums, minimum-hour visit requirements, and total weekly hours. Caregiver shortages have pushed rates up in recent years, so use current figures. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for the hourly cost in your area and help comparing options.
