Nursing home costs and what to expect
Good health is never certain. Sadly, you never know when you or a relative might require care in a nursing home. As such, it is important to have an understanding of typical nursing home costs and fees. With knowledge of the approximate cost of nursing care, you will be able to plan ahead and avoid possible financial difficulties later on.
Who should stay in a nursing home?
Nursing homes provide more extensive care than residential care homes. While residential homes are set up to offer basic personal and medical care, nursing homes are equipped to provide nursing care on a 24/7 basis, meaning that a registered nurse will be available 24-hours a day. If you or your relative require round-the-clock access to a registered nurse, a nursing home might be your only option.
Average fees
According to carehome.co.uk, the average fee for a single room in a private residential care home in March 2025 is £65,832 per annum – in a private nursing home it is £79,508 per annum. It’s important to note that the government has not set a standard fee for nursing home care, so fees may be higher than this, particularly in certain parts of the country, such as London and the Southeast.
Factors affecting nursing home costs
There are several factors that may determine nursing home fees. The location, for instance, may play a significant role in the total cost as there are significant regional differences. A nursing home resident in London can expect to pay weekly fees of around £1,800, compared to £1,441 in Yorkshire.
Nursing homes may also charge higher fees if the individual requires more specialist care. Dementia sufferers should plan on paying higher fees as the level of care required may be greater.
Planning ahead
In order budget correctly, it is important to carefully choose the right nursing home. It is worth talking to friends and associates who have experience and may be able to recommend a good nursing home. Other reliable sources are your local council, online care home directories and Care Quality Commission’s database. Age UK provides a wealth of information free of charge.
You may also seek the help of advisers that specialise in financial planning. Their industry knowledge can be invaluable.