AFH Care Cost Comparison Calculator
Compare estimated monthly and annual costs of Adult Family Home, assisted living, home care, and nursing home arrangements. The tool does not recommend which option is best.
These calculators provide estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs, reimbursement rates, taxes, staffing requirements, licensing requirements, and profitability can vary by location and individual circumstances. This tool is not financial, legal, tax, licensing, or medical advice. Results are based on entered assumptions.
How it works
- Adult Family Home, assisted living, and nursing home monthly costs use the amounts you enter, plus other monthly costs.
- Home care monthly cost is hourly rate × hours per week × 52 ÷ 12, plus other monthly costs.
- Annual cost is monthly cost × 12 for each option.
- Differences subtract each option from the Adult Family Home monthly and annual totals.
Example using the default assumptions
If an Adult Family Home is $6,500 per month, assisted living is $7,500, home care is $35 per hour for 40 hours a week, and a nursing home is $12,000 per month, the table shows each monthly and annual total and the difference versus the AFH figure. None of those options is labeled best.
Important assumptions
- Quotes vary by location, provider, room type, payer, and care needs.
- Home care hours may increase as needs change; this worksheet uses a constant weekly hour figure.
- The calculator does not include quality, staffing ratios, or clinical appropriateness.
Frequently asked questions
Which care option is best?
This tool does not say. Cost is only one factor. Care needs, setting, location, and family circumstances also matter.
How is home care monthly cost estimated?
Hourly rate × hours per week × 52 weeks ÷ 12 months, then other monthly costs are added.
Does this include Medicaid?
Enter the amount the family would actually pay, or the full private rate if you are comparing private-pay quotes.
Why do Adult Family Home and assisted living prices differ?
Setting, room type, staffing, and included services differ. Ask each provider what is in the quoted rate.
Can I compare a shared AFH room to a private assisted living apartment?
Yes, but enter the actual quotes. The calculator does not adjust for room type automatically except through the numbers you type.
Is this a placement recommendation?
No. It is a cost comparison worksheet.
Need another AFH estimate?
Explore occupancy, staffing, startup costs, Medicaid rates, and other Adult Family Home planning tools. Every calculator is free and works without an account.
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