Pennsylvania 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?
South Dakota has lower nursing home costs by $1,764/month ($21,168/year). Over 5 years, that's a difference of $105,840.
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Care Type | Pennsylvania | South Dakota | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Home (Private) | $10,068/mo | $8,304/mo | +$1,764 |
| Nursing Home (Semi-Private) | $9,050/mo | $7,452/mo | +$1,598 |
| Assisted Living | $4,500/mo | $4,000/mo | +$500 |
| Home Health Aide | $25.00/hr | $26.00/hr | $1.00 |
| Adult Day Care | $1,733/mo | $1,517/mo | +$216 |
| Homemaker Services | $23.00/hr | $24.00/hr | $1.00 |
Annual Cost Comparison
Pennsylvania Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$120,816/yr
Assisted Living$54,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$52,800/yr
Adult Day Care$20,796/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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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: Pennsylvania or South Dakota?
South Dakota has lower nursing home costs. Pennsylvania averages $10,068/month while South Dakota averages $8,304/month, a difference of $1,764/month.
How do assisted living costs compare between Pennsylvania and South Dakota?
Assisted living in Pennsylvania costs $4,500/month compared to $4,000/month in South Dakota.
What about home health aide costs?
Home health aides charge $25.00/hour in Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Medicaid covers nursing home care. LIFE program and aging waiver for community services.... 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