ElderCareCost
C

#31 most affordable (out of 50 states)

District of Columbia Assisted Living Affordability Score: C ($6,500/mo)

District of Columbia sits near the national average. Families here face cost burdens typical of most of the country.

6% less affordable than the national average.

State Living

$78,000/yr

Median Income

$101,722/yr

% of Income

76.7%

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 District of Columbia'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).

District of Columbia vs. national average

District of Columbia 76.7% of income
National average 72.4% of income

District of Columbia families spend $24,000/year more on assisted living than the national average ($54,000/yr nationally vs. $78,000/yr here).

District of Columbia assisted living affordability: common questions

How affordable is assisted living in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia earns a C for elder care affordability. Annual assisted living costs $78,000 ($6,500/month), which is 76.7% of the state's median household income of $101,722. That's 6% above the national average burden of 72.4%.
How much does assisted living cost in District of Columbia per month?
Assisted living in District of Columbia averages $6,500/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 District of Columbia?
Medicare does not cover assisted living room and board in District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia get a C for elder care affordability?
The grade compares District of Columbia's annual assisted living cost as a percentage of local median income against the national average of 72.4%. District of Columbia's ratio of 76.7% is 6% 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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