Is a care home cheaper than a nursing home?

The cost of care depends on several factors, including the level of support required, location, and whether specialist care is needed. While nursing homes tend to be more expensive due to the medical support provided, live-in care can offer a more personalised and cost-effective alternative, particularly for couples.

Average Costs of Residential and Nursing Care Homes

The cost of care varies depending on location and services provided. On average:

• Residential care homes cost around £1,387 per week (£72,000 per year).
• Nursing homes, which provide medical care, cost approximately £1,545 per week (£80,000 per year).
• Specialist dementia care or luxury care homes with additional facilities often exceed these figures.

The Cost of Live-In Care

Live-in care provides full-time, one-to-one assistance at home, with costs ranging between £40,000 and £55,000 per year. While this is often more affordable than a nursing home, prices can vary based on location and the level of support required. For couples, live-in care can be particularly cost-effective, as only one carer is needed rather than paying for two separate care home placements.

The cost of care can be a major concern, but there are financial support options available.

Means-Tested Local Authority Support

Local authorities assess assets to determine eligibility for financial support:

• Over £23,250 – Full self-funding required.
• Between £14,250 and £23,250 – Partial financial support may be available.
• Below £14,250 – The local authority covers care costs.

From October 2025, new financial thresholds will apply:

• Upper limit: £100,000 – More people will qualify for financial support.
• Lower limit: £20,000 – Those below this threshold will not need to contribute savings or property towards care.

The £86,000 Care Cost Cap

A lifetime cap on personal care costs of £86,000 will also come into effect in October 2025. Once this amount is reached, the government will cover future personal care expenses, though this does not include accommodation, meals, or general living costs in a care home.

The cost of care homes varies widely across the UK:

Choosing between a care home, nursing home, or live-in care requires careful financial planning and consideration of personal preferences. While nursing homes provide essential medical support, live-in care often allows individuals to maintain their independence while receiving personalised care at a lower overall cost.

If you are considering home care for yourself or a loved one, Home Instead Hamilton offers professional, compassionate support tailored to individual needs. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help you find the best care solution.

Need more guidance? Speak with our expert team at Home Instead Hamilton for tailored advice on the best care solution for you or your loved one.