When it comes to planning for long-term care, understanding the costs involved is crucial for families across Virginia. Whether you’re considering nursing home care for yourself or a loved one, knowing the average expenses can help you make informed decisions and explore all available options—including alternatives like in-home care facilitated by Clara.

The Current Cost of Nursing Home Care in Virginia

In 2025, the average cost of a nursing home in Virginia is approximately $9,247 per month for a semi-private room and $10,190 per month for a private room. These figures represent statewide averages, but actual costs can vary significantly depending on location, facility amenities, and the level of care required.

For context, these rates place Virginia close to the national average, where the median monthly cost for a semi-private room is $9,555 and for a private room is $10,965. Nursing home care in Virginia is about 60% more expensive than assisted living, which averages $6,050 per month.

Regional Differences Across Virginia

Nursing home costs in Virginia are not uniform. Here’s a look at how prices can differ by region:

Note: Some cities may have higher or lower costs due to local demand, facility quality, and available services. For example, Winchester reports some of the highest rates in the state.

What Do Nursing Home Costs Cover?

Nursing home fees typically include:

• Room and board

• 24/7 nursing care

• Assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, toileting)

• Medication management

• Meals and nutrition

• Housekeeping and laundry

• Social and recreational activities

However, some facilities may charge extra for specialized services such as physical therapy, memory care for dementia, or advanced medical treatments. It’s important to review contracts carefully and ask about any additional fees.

Why Are Nursing Homes So Expensive?

Nursing homes provide the most comprehensive level of care outside of a hospital setting. Residents often require help with multiple activities of daily living and may have complex medical needs, including cognitive impairments like Alzheimer’s or dementia. This high level of support, combined with regulatory requirements and staffing needs, drives up costs.

Comparing Nursing Home Care to Other Senior Care Options

If you’re weighing nursing home care against other options, here’s how they compare:

In-home care can be a cost-effective and flexible alternative, especially for seniors who do not require intensive medical supervision. Clara specializes in helping families find the right in-home care solutions, matching private, independent caregivers to your loved one’s unique needs and handling all administrative tasks, so you can focus on what matters most.

Factors That Influence Nursing Home Costs

Several variables can affect how much you’ll pay for nursing home care in Virginia:

• Location: Urban areas tend to have higher rates than rural communities.

• Room Type: Private rooms cost more than shared (semi-private) rooms.

• Level of Care: Specialized care for conditions like dementia or rehabilitation services may increase the total cost.

• Facility Amenities: Newer facilities or those with luxury amenities generally charge more.

• Length of Stay: Short-term stays (such as for post-surgery rehabilitation) may be billed at a different rate than long-term residency.

Planning for Nursing Home Costs

Given the high expense, it’s important to plan ahead:

• Long-term care insurance can help cover some or all of the costs.

• Medicaid may be available for those who meet income and asset requirements.

• Veterans’ benefits can provide assistance for eligible individuals.

• Personal savings and family contributions often play a role in covering gaps.

Many families are surprised by how quickly nursing home bills can add up, especially if a loved one needs care for several years. That’s why exploring all your options, including in-home care, is so important.

Is In-Home Care a Better Option?

For many seniors, staying at home with the right support is not only more comfortable but also more affordable. In-home care costs in Virginia can range from $18 to $42 per hour, depending on the level of care and the caregiver’s qualifications. This flexibility allows families to tailor care to their needs and budgets.

Clara is dedicated to helping families navigate these choices. We connect you with experienced caregivers, manage payroll and scheduling, and ensure a seamless experience—so your loved one can age in place with dignity and independence.

How Clara Can Help

Choosing the right care for your loved one is a deeply personal decision. Clara’s team of senior care experts is here to help you:

• Understand your options: We’ll walk you through the differences between nursing home care, assisted living, and in-home care.

• Compare costs: Clara provides transparent information so you can make the best financial decision for your family.

• Find the right caregiver: Our matching process ensures your loved one gets the support they need, whether it’s a few hours a week or around-the-clock care.

• Handle the details: From payroll to scheduling, Clara takes care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on your family.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re considering nursing home care in Virginia or want to learn more about in-home care alternatives, Clara is here to help. Our friendly team is available to answer your questions, provide cost estimates, and guide you every step of the way.

Contact Clara today to discover how we can support your family’s senior care journey.