Knowing the average cost of nursing home care helps families plan ahead. Here are the latest national and state-level numbers.
What is the average cost of nursing home care?
Nationally, the average (median) nursing home cost was $9,277 per month for a semi-private room and $10,646 for a private room in 2024, according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey — roughly $111,000 to $128,000 a year. These averages have risen with inflation and staffing shortages. It's important to understand that 'average' masks wide variation: your local cost could be substantially higher or lower depending on state and facility. The figure covers room, board, nursing care, and basic services. Because almost no family can sustain six-figure annual costs indefinitely, knowing your payment options early is essential. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for free help.
How do averages differ by state and room type?
State averages range enormously. The Northeast, Alaska, and the West Coast typically post the highest figures, while many Southern and Midwestern states fall well below the national median. Room type also shifts the average: a private room runs roughly $1,000-plus more per month than semi-private. Care level matters too — memory care and high-acuity nursing raise the average bill. When budgeting, use your specific state and city numbers rather than the national figure, since the gap can exceed several thousand dollars a month. A 1-800-MEDIGAP specialist can help you understand local costs and how Medicaid or insurance can offset them, at no charge.