North Carolina vs South Dakota: 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?
North Carolina has lower nursing home costs by $0/month ($0/year). Over 5 years, that's a difference of $0.
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Care Type | North Carolina | South Dakota | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Home (Private) | $8,304/mo | $8,304/mo | $0 |
| Nursing Home (Semi-Private) | $7,452/mo | $7,452/mo | $0 |
| Assisted Living | $4,250/mo | $4,000/mo | +$250 |
| Home Health Aide | $23.00/hr | $26.00/hr | $3.00 |
| Adult Day Care | $1,517/mo | $1,517/mo | $0 |
| Homemaker Services | $21.00/hr | $24.00/hr | $3.00 |
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 Dakota Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$99,648/yr
Assisted Living$48,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$54,912/yr
Adult Day Care$18,204/yr
Senior Care Planning Resources
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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 Dakota?
North Carolina has lower nursing home costs. North Carolina averages $8,304/month while South Dakota averages $8,304/month, a difference of $0/month.
How do assisted living costs compare between North Carolina and South Dakota?
Assisted living in North Carolina costs $4,250/month compared to $4,000/month in South Dakota.
What about home health aide costs?
Home health aides charge $23.00/hour in North Carolina and $26.00/hour in South Dakota.
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 Dakota: South Dakota Medicaid covers nursing facilities. HOPE waiver for community-based alternatives....
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: Genworth Cost of Care Survey