How much does a care home cost?
Typical UK care home and nursing home fees, what they include, and how funding works.
Free to search. No account required. Information from the Care Quality Commission.
Typical weekly fees
As a guide, residential care homes in the UK commonly charge around £1,000 to £1,400 a week, and nursing homes around £1,300 to £1,800 a week. Location, room size, en-suite facilities and the level of care all move the figure, and London and the South East sit above the national average.
What the fee usually covers
Accommodation, all meals and drinks, laundry, utilities, activities and personal care are normally included. Nursing care in a nursing home is covered by the fee, with a contribution from the NHS Funded Nursing Care payment where someone qualifies.
Funding your place
Ask the council for a needs assessment first, then a financial assessment. If needs are primarily health related, NHS Continuing Healthcare can cover the whole cost. A deferred payment agreement may let you delay selling a home. Independent financial advice from an adviser who specialises in later life care is worth taking.
Third-party top-ups
If the council funds a place but you choose a more expensive home, a relative or third party may be asked to pay the difference. Make sure any top-up is affordable long term and set out in writing.
What to check before you choose
- A written fee schedule showing exactly what is and is not included
- How and when fees are reviewed, and what notice is given
- The home's current CQC rating and latest inspection report
- Whether the home takes council-funded and NHS-funded placements
- Trial stays, notice periods and what happens if needs change
Common questions
How much does a care home cost per week in the UK?
Residential care homes typically cost around £1,000 to £1,400 a week, and nursing homes around £1,300 to £1,800 a week, with higher fees in London and the South East. Fees vary widely by home, room and level of need, so always ask for a written fee schedule.
What is the difference between a residential and a nursing home?
A residential home provides accommodation with personal care and support around the clock. A nursing home does the same but also has registered nurses on site for people with medical needs, which is why the fees are higher.
Who pays for a care home?
In England the council assesses both needs and finances. People with capital above the upper threshold generally fund their own care; those below may get council support, subject to a contribution from income. Where needs are primarily health related, NHS Continuing Healthcare may fund the full placement.
Is the fee all-inclusive?
Not always. Hairdressing, chiropody, outings, newspapers and some therapies are often charged separately. Ask exactly what the weekly fee covers and what is extra.