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As a record number of older adults seek the services of skilled nursing facilities, more family members are discovering that the costs of nursing home care can be surprising, and often overwhelming. Whether you’re planning for your own future or helping a loved one, it’s crucial to have accurate, up-to-date information about the costs of nursing home care.
RKPT is committed to providing accurate information and useful guidance for families preparing to take on the costs of assisted living facilities. This guide will explore nursing home costs nationally, across Ohio, and here in Cincinnati. We will explain payment options, financial assistance, and the difference between different types of assisted living communities.
Planning to pay for skilled nursing care or other types of long-term care? Consult RKPT’s experienced elder law attorneys to learn more: (513) 721-3330.
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Understanding Nursing Home Costs
Nursing home costs can vary dramatically, depending on several factors. These include location, type of room (private vs. semi-private), and any specialized care that may be required. Large, private, high-assistance facilities tend to cost more than semi-private spaces that offer fewer additional services. Rehabilitation services, physical therapy, specialized diets, and/or medication schedules may increase the cost of care, as could specialized units, such as memory care units.
The median national cost for a private room in a nursing home is $361 per day, or $10,965 per month (as of June 2025). A semi-private room averages $314 per day, or $9,555 per month. Memory care communities (spaces for people with Alzheimer's Disease and dementia) can be considerably more expensive. These costs are projected to rise; private rooms are expected to surpass $150,000 annually by 2030.
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Nursing Home Costs in Ohio
Ohio’s nursing home costs are generally in line with the national average, but can vary significantly by city and facility. According to the Ohio Department of Insurance, the average cost for one day in an Ohio nursing home is about $200, or about $73,000 per year. Ohio’s Medicaid program also uses an average private pay rate. As of September 1, 2024, this was $7,787 per month, or about $93,000 per year. Costs range from $3,000 to over $8,100 per month, depending on the facility and the services provided. Recent data shows average monthly costs are often higher, especially in larger cities.
Ohio Nursing Home Costs: More Details
The statewide median monthly cost for a semi-private room is between $7,148 and $9,305, while private rooms typically range from about $9,520 to $10,339 per month. Cities like Mansfield and Canton offer more affordable options, with semi-private rooms as low as $6,540 to $6,981 per month.
Cincinnati stands out as the most expensive area; according to some sources, the average cost of a semi-private room is nearly $10,000 per month. A private room in a skilled care facility costs more than $12,000 per month. These figures are the highest in the state of Ohio.
Kentucky Nursing Home Costs
Nursing home costs in Kentucky are generally more affordable than in many neighboring states, though they still represent a significant expense for families. Sources suggest that the average cost for a semi-private room is about $7,770 per month, while a private room averages $8,900 per month. In Northern Kentucky, prices tend to be close to the statewide average, though specific NKY data is not always separated from broader state or regional figures.
Overall, Kentucky’s nursing home costs are lower than the national average, but they remain a substantial financial consideration for families seeking long-term care. In Louisville, for example, a semi-private room averages $8,200 per month, and a private room is about $9,000 per month; in Lexington, these figures are $8,250 and $9,050, respectively. The most expensive location in Kentucky is Bowling Green, where a semi-private room averages $10,555 per month and a private room costs $11,102 per month.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Nursing homes offer a variety of different types of amenities and services. Your standard assisted living facility will typically cover room and board, nursing assistance, and personal care (housekeeping, laundry, assistance with activities of daily living, and so forth). Many types of senior care communities offer activities for socializing and residents’ enjoyment, including games, events, outings, and on-site classes. These services have been shown to improve both resident satisfaction and longevity.
Your loved one may need additional types of care depending on your health, mobility and personal circumstances. Additional charges may apply for:
- Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
- Specialized medical equipment
- Certain medications or treatments
Questions about paying for Elder care? RKPT Can Help.
Our elder care attorneys will be able to assist you in planning for retirement and finding the means of paying for the services you need. RKPT offers Medicaid Asset Protection, Crisis Planning, and Estate Administration, which can protect your assets as you formulate a financial plan to pay for skilled nursing care. Speak to our elder care attorneys to learn more: (513) 721-3330.
Paying for Nursing Home Care
Just as there are multiple types of care available to older adults, there are also multiple ways to pay for your loved one’s assisted living needs (and plan for your own future care). Below, we have outlined the most common ways of paying for nursing home care; most people draw from several sources to meet the financial burden of elder care services.
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Private Pay
Most residents start by paying out of pocket to pay for their elder care. Funds generally come from personal savings, pension accounts, 401(k)s, or proceeds from selling a home. As a reminder, the average cost for nursing home care in Ohio is over $5,000 per month, and Cincinnati’s rates are often much higher.
Many older adults will become partially or fully disabled, or otherwise unable to work in their golden years. We strongly recommend speaking to a financial planner, as well as an estate planning attorney, to protect yourself from financial hardship during this phase of your life, and to ensure the nest egg you worked so hard to build leaves something for the next generation.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that covers long-term care for eligible low-income seniors. In Ohio, Medicaid pays for room, board, and necessary care in certified long-term care facilities.
Applicants must meet strict income and asset limits. Most of the resident’s income goes toward care, with a $50/month personal needs allowance. By working with an experienced elder law attorney, you can ensure that the maximum amount of assets are protected, and in most cases, income is not a barrier to qualification.
It is important to note that not all nursing homes and long-term care facilities accept Medicaid, so availability can be limited. Our Medicaid Crisis Planning lawyers can help structure your finances in such a way as to protect both your assets and your eligibility for Medicaid benefits (which can be applied to other expenses). To speak to a medicaid crisis planning attorney, call us at (513) 721-3330.
Helpful Link: Ohio Medicaid Long Term Care Programs, Benefits & Eligibility Requirements
Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that offsets the medical costs associated with certain disabilities for people 65 years or older. Medicare is not applicable to nursing home costs, however, as it only covers short-term stays (up to 100 days) following a qualifying hospital stay. Medicare does not pay for long-term custodial care.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Some individuals purchase long-term care insurance to help cover future nursing home expenses. Policies and coverage vary; consult the Ohio Department of Insurance Long-Term Care to learn more. We strongly recommend exploring this option, as long-term care insurance can significantly reduce the personal financial burden and the stress on your family of paying for assisted living care.
Choosing the Best Nursing Home
Choosing an assisted living facility, either for yourself or a family member, is an important and deeply personal decision. You will want to consider the long-term costs, your current level of medical need, and the location and reputation of each facility.
Elder Care Resources
To begin your search for nursing home care, you may find these resources helpful:*
High-quality elder care facilities will offer a range of amenities, from activity centers and restaurant-style dining to therapy services and outdoor spaces. Nurse staffing levels, quality ratings, and proximity to hospitals are important factors to consider. Most Cincinnati nursing homes are certified for both Medicare and Medicaid, but always confirm before making a decision.
Ideas to Consider
When visiting and vetting elder care communities, be sure to ask about these considerations. Look to see if the space feels safe, clean, and well-staffed. Ask yourself:
- Do residents seem happy and well cared for?
- Do staff members seem attentive and engaged?
- Would I feel comfortable living here?
- Is the cost of this facility something I could reasonably afford?
- Do I fully understand the contract and what is included in my monthly fee?
- What kind of reviews does this facility receive?
- Is there a waitlist for this facility, and am I willing to wait?
Tips for Managing Nursing Home Costs
Nursing home care in Cincinnati, Ohio, is among the most expensive in the state, with costs often exceeding $9,900 per month for a semi-private room and $12,000 for a private room. Understanding your payment options, facility choices, and available financial assistance is essential for making informed decisions. Use Ohio’s government resources to compare facilities and get help with applications, and don’t hesitate to seek RKPT’s professional advice to ensure you or your loved one receives the best possible care within your budget.
*RKPT is not affiliated with these resources or any nursing care facility. We suggest you use these tools at your discretion.
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Nursing Home Costs: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of nursing home care in Ohio?
According to state data, the average monthly rate for a semi-private room is approximately $8,365, while a private room averages around $9,520 per month. Some sources note that costs can be slightly lower, with median monthly rates for a semi-private room around $7,148 and private rooms at $8,152, but major cities like Cincinnati tend to be more expensive, with semi-private rooms averaging $9,901 per month and private rooms reaching $12,015 per month. What is the cost of memory care vs nursing home care?
In Ohio, the average cost of memory care is generally higher than standard assisted living. Memory care communities in Ohio range from about $5,000 to $15,000 monthly. This cost reflects the specialized support, enhanced security, and staff training necessary for residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The cost varies so much do to the different levels of care provided, with the top of the range typically corresponding with services seen in skilled nursing facilities that offer memory care units.
Nursing home care in Ohio is more expensive on average, reflecting the higher level of medical and personal care provided. The average monthly cost for a semi-private room in an Ohio nursing home is about $8,365, while a private room averages around $9,520 per month. In Cincinnati and other major cities, these costs can be even higher.
Why does nursing home care cost more than memory care?
Nursing home care provides a higher level of medical and personal care. Nursing homes are equipped to deliver 24-hour skilled nursing services and manage complex health conditions with the assistance of medical professionals. This includes administering medications, wound care, and rehabilitation for residents who may be unable to perform basic activities of daily living independently. This level of care requires more highly trained staff, greater staff-to-resident ratios, and access to specialized medical equipment and services.
What is the cost of home care vs nursing homes?
Home care is generally much lower than the cost of nursing home care. The average hourly rate for home care in Cincinnati is about $22.30 per hour, or just under $2,900 a month. Even with increased hours, the total monthly expense typically remains below that of full-time nursing home care. Home care is best suited for seniors who need help with daily activities but do not require round-the-clock medical supervision.
What is the average daily cost of nursing home living in Cincinnati?
As of 2025, a private room in a nursing home facility costs an average of about $400 a day (or $12,015 per month). This rate is notably higher than the state average and reflects Cincinnati’s position as the most expensive region for nursing home care in Ohio. Actual costs may vary by facility and the level of care required, but these figures provide a reliable benchmark for families planning for long-term care in the Cincinnati area. To learn more about how an elder law attorney can help you plan for the expense of a nursing home, call RKPT: (513) 721-3330.
