North Carolina vs South Carolina: Senior Care Cost Comparison (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of nursing home, assisted living, and home care costs.
Which State is More Affordable for Senior Care?
South Carolina has lower nursing home costs by $700/month ($8,400/year). Over 5 years, that's a difference of $42,000.
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Care Type | North Carolina | South Carolina | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Home (Private) | $8,304/mo | $7,604/mo | +$700 |
| Nursing Home (Semi-Private) | $7,452/mo | $6,844/mo | +$608 |
| Assisted Living | $4,250/mo | $3,750/mo | +$500 |
| Home Health Aide | $23.00/hr | $22.00/hr | +$1.00 |
| Adult Day Care | $1,517/mo | $1,383/mo | +$134 |
| Homemaker Services | $21.00/hr | $20.00/hr | +$1.00 |
Annual Cost Comparison
North Carolina Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$99,648/yr
Assisted Living$51,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$48,576/yr
Adult Day Care$18,204/yr
South Carolina Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$91,248/yr
Assisted Living$45,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$46,464/yr
Adult Day Care$16,596/yr
Senior Care Planning Resources
Long-Term Care Insurance Quotes
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Medicaid Planning Services
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Medicare Part A Coverage
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Elder Law Attorneys
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state has cheaper nursing homes: North Carolina or South Carolina?
South Carolina has lower nursing home costs. North Carolina averages $8,304/month while South Carolina averages $7,604/month, a difference of $700/month.
How do assisted living costs compare between North Carolina and South Carolina?
Assisted living in North Carolina costs $4,250/month compared to $3,750/month in South Carolina.
What about home health aide costs?
Home health aides charge $23.00/hour in North Carolina and $22.00/hour in South Carolina.
Which state has better Medicaid coverage for senior care?
Both states offer Medicaid coverage for nursing home care. North Carolina: North Carolina Medicaid covers nursing facility care. Community Alternatives Program waivers available.... South Carolina: South Carolina Medicaid covers nursing home care. Community Choices waiver for home-based services....
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: Genworth Cost of Care Survey