What tips should I keep in mind?

In-home care is often cheaper than facility care if you need less than 40 hours/week. Medicare covers some skilled home health services prescribed by a doctor but not custodial care. Hiring privately (vs. through an agency) saves 20-30% but you become the employer for tax purposes.

In-Home Care Cost Calculator

Calculate the cost of hiring in-home caregivers based on hours per week, care type, and your location.

Results

Visualization

How It Works

In-home care allows seniors to remain in their own home while receiving assistance with daily tasks, personal care, or medical needs. Costs depend on the type of care, hours needed, and local labor market.

The Formula

Weekly Cost = Hourly Rate × Care Type Multiplier × Hours/Week
Monthly Cost = Weekly × 4.33

Variables

Rate — Hourly rate for the caregiver
4.33 — Average weeks per month
Mult — Care type multiplier (1.0× companion to 1.5× skilled nursing)

Worked Example

A home health aide at $27/hr for 20 hours/week: $27 × 1.10 = $29.70/hr, $594/week, $2,572/month, $30,868/year.

Practical Tips

In-home care is often cheaper than facility care if you need less than 40 hours/week.
Medicare covers some skilled home health services prescribed by a doctor but not custodial care.
Hiring privately (vs. through an agency) saves 20-30% but you become the employer for tax purposes.
Many states offer Medicaid waiver programs that pay for in-home care.
Consider a mix of professional care and family caregiving to reduce costs.

Last updated: March 11, 2026 · Reviewed by the ElderCalc Editorial Team