Cost is often the first question families ask, and the answer depends on where you live, how many hours you need and the kind of help involved. Here is how to think it through.
National benchmarks
The best-known benchmark is the annual Cost of Care Survey published by Genworth and CareScout. In its 2024 edition, the national median cost for a home health aide was about $34 per hour, with homemaker services slightly lower. Rates in large metropolitan areas and some states are considerably higher, while rural areas are often lower.
Treat these numbers as a starting point. On CaregiverCrew, each caregiver sets and displays their own hourly rate, so the most accurate picture is the profiles in your area.
Estimating your monthly budget
A simple formula: hourly rate × hours per week × 4.33 gives an approximate monthly cost. For example:
| Schedule | Hours per week | At $30/hour | At $38/hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three 4-hour visits | 12 | about $1,560/month | about $1,975/month |
| Weekday mornings (5 × 4h) | 20 | about $2,600/month | about $3,290/month |
| Weekdays full day (5 × 8h) | 40 | about $5,195/month | about $6,580/month |
These figures are illustrations only and exclude any payment processing fees, mileage or overtime that may apply.
What affects the rate
- Location: local wages and cost of living.
- Type of care: personal care and dementia care often cost more than companionship.
- Schedule: nights, weekends and holidays may be priced differently.
- Experience and training: caregivers with many years of experience or specific training may charge more.
Ways to pay for non-medical care
Medicare
Original Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care, meaning help with daily activities, when that is the only care needed. It can cover part-time home health services when a doctor orders skilled care. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited in-home support benefits; check your plan documents.
Medicaid
Every state offers some Medicaid home and community-based services, often through waivers with their own eligibility rules and waiting lists. Some programs let participants choose and direct their own caregivers.
Veterans benefits
The VA offers several programs that can help with care at home, including Homemaker and Home Health Aide care and, for eligible veterans and survivors, the Aid and Attendance pension benefit.
Long-term care insurance
Many policies cover in-home care once the policyholder needs help with a set number of daily activities. Read the policy carefully for elimination periods and caregiver requirements.
Other options
Some families use savings, contributions from several relatives, or a dependent care FSA where eligible. Your local Area Agency on Aging (find it through the Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116) can explain programs available in your area.
Do not forget taxes
If you pay a caregiver directly above a certain amount in a year, you may have household employer obligations. IRS Publication 926 explains the rules; a tax professional can help.
Sources: Genworth & CareScout, Cost of Care Survey 2024; Medicare.gov, "Home health services"; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "Geriatrics and extended care"; IRS Publication 926.
This article is general information for families and caregivers. It is not medical, legal or financial advice. For decisions about health, benefits or employment, speak with a qualified professional.
