Long-term care costs surprised me. I knew care wasn’t free, but I didn’t realize just how much a few years of it could add up to — often more than people expect to spend on anything else in retirement.
This calculator estimates long-term care costs based on national averages, so you can see roughly what different care types and durations actually mean in dollars.
Long-Term Care Cost Estimator
Select a care type and how many years of care you want to estimate.
These are national averages and vary significantly by state and region. Use this as a starting point, not an exact quote.
Long-Term Care Cost Estimator: What the Numbers Include
The figures in this long-term care cost estimator represent national average annual costs for each care type. In-home care assumes part-time help, not around-the-clock care, which would cost significantly more. Nursing home figures reflect a semi-private or private room, not additional medical services beyond standard care.
Why Costs Vary So Much by State
Long-term care costs can differ by tens of thousands of dollars a year depending on where you live. Care in the Northeast and West Coast tends to run well above the national average, while parts of the South and Midwest often run below it. The Genworth Cost of Care survey breaks down figures by state if you want a more localized estimate.
How People Actually Pay for Long-Term Care
- Self-funding — using savings, investments, or home equity directly.
- Long-term care insurance — a dedicated policy purchased in advance, typically before health issues arise.
- Hybrid life insurance policies — combine life insurance with a long-term care benefit.
- Medicaid — covers long-term care for those who qualify financially, usually after other assets are largely spent down.
Our Long-Term Care Planning page covers these options in more depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does long-term care cost per year?
National averages run roughly $65,000 to $116,000 per year depending on care type, though actual costs vary significantly by state and provider.
Does Medicare cover long-term care?
Generally no. Medicare covers short-term skilled nursing or rehab in limited situations, but not ongoing custodial long-term care.
What’s the difference between assisted living and a nursing home?
Assisted living generally serves people who need help with daily activities but not intensive medical care. Nursing homes provide a higher level of medical care and supervision.
How accurate is this long-term care cost estimator?
It uses national average figures as a starting point. Actual costs depend heavily on your state, specific facility, and level of care needed — treat this as a rough estimate, not a quote.
When should I start planning for long-term care costs?
Earlier is generally better, especially if you’re considering long-term care insurance, since premiums rise and eligibility narrows with age and health changes.
This calculator is for general education, not a personalized cost estimate. See our affiliate disclosure.