Live In Care Costs UK
March 12 2025
The demand for live-in care services in the UK has grown significantly as more people seek alternatives to residential care homes. Live-in care offers individuals the opportunity to remain in their own homes while receiving full-time support from a dedicated caregiver. However, as with many essential services, the cost of live-in care has risen in recent years.
A combination of increased living costs, rising wages for care staff, and inflation in the healthcare sector has contributed to higher fees for professional care services. The impact of these financial changes means that families must carefully assess their options and plan for the affordability of long-term care. In this article, we’ll break down live-in care costs, explain the factors influencing pricing, and offer guidance on funding options available in the UK.
Why Have Live-In Care Costs Increased?
Several economic and industry-specific factors have contributed to the rising cost of live-in care in the UK:
- Wage Increases for Carers – With ongoing government initiatives to improve pay for social care workers, live-in carers now receive higher wages, contributing to the overall cost of care.
- Cost of Living Crisis – The rising cost of food, utilities, and accommodation means that care agencies must adjust their pricing to meet operational expenses.
- Increased Demand for Care Services – With the ageing population growing and more people preferring home-based care over residential facilities, demand has surged, affecting pricing.
- Care Regulation and Compliance Costs – Providers must meet strict industry regulations, increasing their administrative and operational costs.
- Inflation in the Healthcare Sector – Medical equipment, insurance, and training costs have all risen, impacting the cost of delivering high-quality care.
Despite these rising costs, live-in care remains a personalised and cost-effective alternative to care homes for many individuals, particularly for couples requiring care together.
How Much Does Live-In Care Cost in the UK?
The cost of live-in care varies depending on factors such as location, the complexity of care required, and whether services are provided through an agency or a private carer.
On average, live-in care costs in the UK range from £900 to £1,500 per week for a single person. For couples, costs can start at £1,300 per week, making it a more affordable alternative to placing two individuals in a care home.
Factors that influence the cost include:
- Level of Care Required – Basic assistance (e.g., personal care, companionship) costs less than specialised care for conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s.
- Location – London and the South East tend to have higher care costs compared to other regions in the UK.
- Private Carer vs. Agency – Hiring a self-employed carer can be more cost-effective than using a fully managed agency, but agencies provide added security and oversight.
Live-In Care Costs Comparison Across the UK (2025)
| Location | Average Weekly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| London | £1,500 – £2,000 |
| Manchester | £1,200 – £1,600 |
| Birmingham | £1,100 – £1,500 |
| Bristol | £1,200 – £1,600 |
| Eastbourne | £1,000 – £1,400 |
| Hastings | £950 – £1,350 |
| Leeds | £1,100 – £1,500 |
| Edinburgh | £1,200 – £1,600 |
| Cardiff | £1,000 – £1,400 |
| Newcastle | £1,050 – £1,450 |
Funding and Financial Support for Live-In Care
Many families worry about how to afford live-in care, but there are several funding options available:
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) – If an individual has complex medical needs, they may qualify for fully funded care provided by the NHS.
- Local Authority Support – Depending on an individual’s financial situation, local councils may contribute towards care costs after a means-tested assessment.
- Attendance Allowance – A non-means-tested benefit available to individuals over 65 who need help with personal care.
- Equity Release & Private Savings – Some individuals fund their care using equity release schemes or savings set aside for later life.
Understanding funding eligibility can significantly reduce the financial burden of care, so seeking advice from a social worker or financial planner is highly recommended.
Is Live-In Care Cost-Effective Compared to a Care Home?
While care homes charge an average of £800 to £1,500 per week, this cost is per person. For couples, live-in care can be the more affordable option while allowing them to remain together in familiar surroundings.
Live-in care offers additional benefits, such as one-to-one support, personalised routines, and continuity of care, making it an attractive investment for many families.
How Is CareStaff24 Helping
CareStaff24 is committed to making high-quality live-in care accessible and sustainable across Hastings and Eastbourne. By launching a new live-in care service in these areas, CareStaff24 aims to provide affordable, personalised care employment that allows individuals to remain in their own homes with dignity and comfort. Recognising the ongoing cost of living crisis, CareStaff24 ensures that its care rates remain fair and competitive, balancing affordability for clients with fair wages for carers. This approach helps create an equilibrium state in the care sector, ensuring that both caregivers and clients benefit from a sustainable and ethical pricing model. By carefully managing operational costs, maintaining high standards of care, and investing in the well-being of their staff, CareStaff24 continues to support families in need of reliable, cost-effective live-in care solutions.
