18/10/2026
Many seniors receive support through four main types of care: independent living, assisted living, memory care, and home care.
If you’re trying to understand the difference in options, this breakdown highlights what each setting typically offers and who it is best suited for.
The costs shown here are national medians from A Place for Mom’s 2026 Costs of Long-Term Care and Senior Living report. Independent living, assisted living, and memory care figures reflect actual monthly costs paid by residents who moved into communities during 2025, including base rent and care fees where applicable. Actual costs vary by location, floor plan, services, and level of care.
Home-care costs are reported as an hourly starting rate. Monthly cost varies based on the number of hours, schedule, location, and agency pricing.
Care needs can change over time. Consider your loved one’s safety, how much help they need, what family can provide, and the total cost.
Read the full report by individual state by state data, through the link in our bio.