ElderCareCost
D

#45 most affordable (out of 50 states)

California Assisted Living Affordability Score: D ($5,750/mo)

California is above the national average for assisted living relative to income. Families here pay a larger share of their earnings than most.

13% less affordable than the national average.

State Living

$69,000/yr

Median Income

$84,097/yr

% of Income

82.0%

nat. avg 72.4%

How the grade is calculated

We divide annual assisted living by median household income to get the cost burden ratio. Then we compare California's ratio against the national average. Grades reflect how much more or less families pay here relative to what families pay nationally.

A+
25%+ cheaper
A
10–25% cheaper
B
0–10% cheaper
C
0–10% pricier
D
10–25% pricier
F
25%+ pricier

Sources: Genworth/CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025; U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023 (median household income).

California vs. national average

California 82.0% of income
National average 72.4% of income

California families spend $15,000/year more on assisted living than the national average ($54,000/yr nationally vs. $69,000/yr here).

California assisted living affordability: common questions

How affordable is assisted living in California?
California earns a D for elder care affordability. Annual assisted living costs $69,000 ($5,750/month), which is 82.0% of the state's median household income of $84,097. That's 13% above the national average burden of 72.4%.
How much does assisted living cost in California per month?
Assisted living in California averages $5,750/month in 2026. Memory care runs 20–30% higher. In-home aide care averages somewhat less depending on hours needed. Full nursing home care is the most expensive option at $8,000–$15,000+/month in most states.
Does Medicare cover assisted living in California?
Medicare does not cover assisted living room and board in California or any state. It covers only skilled nursing care (up to 100 days after a qualifying hospital stay) and home health care. Medicaid may cover assisted living through waiver programs if the resident qualifies financially. Long-term care insurance is the main private option — premiums average $2,000–$4,000/year when purchased before age 60.
Why does California get a D for elder care affordability?
The grade compares California's annual assisted living cost as a percentage of local median income against the national average of 72.4%. California's ratio of 82.0% is 13% above the national baseline. States with lower labor costs, less expensive real estate, and higher median incomes tend to grade better.

What does this mean for your family?

The grade is based on median income. Your actual cost burden depends on your specific income and situation. Use the calculator to see your numbers.

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