North Carolina is home to over 10 million people, including a large senior community that makes up nearly 17% of the population. It has the ninth-largest senior community in the nation, and seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in the state. Many of North Carolina’s cities and counties are listed on the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, but no matter where you live in the state, you can find access to community-based services that help you maintain your independence and quality of life throughout your retirement years. 

North Carolina is an affordable option for those seeking in-home care. Overall, the state’s cost of living comes in about 10% below the national median. Seniors don’t pay state taxes on their Social Security income, which may help those who rely primarily on this form of income to afford long-term care. In-home care is relatively affordable at $4,385 per month.  

This guide outlines what you can expect to pay for in-home care throughout that state and how rates compare to other senior care options. It also covers some ways that you may be able to pay for care, highlights local agencies that serve seniors and provides answers to frequently asked questions regarding in-home care.

The Cost of In-Home Care in North Carolina

The 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey reports that seniors in North Carolina pay competitive in-home care rates of $4,385 per month. This is nearly $600 lower than the national median rate of $4,957 and cost-effective compared to most of North Carolina’s bordering states. In Virginia, care costs are considerably higher at $4,767. In Tennessee, clients pay $4,576 for services, and in South Carolina, agencies charge $4,433. Only Georgia has more economically priced care, with rates averaging $4,290 per month.

$4385

North Carolina

$4957

The United States

$4767

Virginia

$4576

Tennessee

$4290

Georgia

$4433

South Carolina

In-home care costs vary throughout North Carolina, but rates in all cities are at or below the national median. Of the surveyed cities in the state, Raleigh is the costliest place to obtain care, with fees coming in at $4,957 per month. In Charlotte, care costs are considerably lower but still exceed the state median at $4,668, and in Wilmington, rates average $4,576. Seniors in Rocky Mount pay comparatively low monthly fees of $4,290, and seniors in Jacksonville pay $4,195. In Hickory, care is affordable at $4,099. Goldsboro has the lowest surveyed rates in the state of $3,813.  

$4290

Rocky Mount

$4957

Raleigh

$4668

Charlotte

$4099

Hickory

$3813

Goldsboro

$4195

Jacksonville

$4576

Wilmington

Seniors pay $4,385 for in-home care as well as home health care, which is similar but also includes skilled nursing services, making home-based care the second-most expensive long-term care option in North Carolina. Only nursing home care is costlier at $7,483 per month. Older adults may save money by moving into an assisted living facility, which provides personal care services along with housing, meals and recreational activities. For those who want to remain in their homes while obtaining affordable care, adult day care may be a viable option at $1,197 per month.

$4385

In-Home Care

$4385

Home Health Care

$1197

Adult Day Care

$4010

Assisted Living

$7483

Nursing Home Care

Does Medicaid Cover Home Care in North Carolina?

While North Carolina is a generally affordable state for in-home care, for some seniors, monthly expenses exceed what they can pay for with their retirement income. Fortunately, NC Medicaid provides coverage for in-home care for income-qualifying individuals in the state. It pays for services directly under its Personal Care Services program, which pays for an approved number of hours per month of attendant care. Because this program is part of regular Medicaid, it doesn’t have enrollment caps and those who qualify are guaranteed services.  

The Personal Care Services program features services provided by in-home aides who provide non-medical care to help you age in place. Services include: 

  • Bathing/showering  
  • Dressing 
  • Toileting 
  • Mobility  
  • Eating 
  • Housekeeping 
  • Grocery shopping 
  • Meal preparation 
  • Laundry 
  • Medication reminders 
  • Companionship  

To be eligible for services, you have to undergo an independent assessment that’s conducted by or on behalf of NC Medicaid. You must need partial help with at least three activities of daily living (ADLs) or partial help with one ADL and extensive or full help with a second ADL.  

NC Medicaid also covers in-home care through the Community Alternative Program for Disabled Adults program. This program provides home-based care as an alternative to nursing home care for those who need assistance due to age or disability.  

Home Care Waiver Programs in North Carolina 

Community Alternative Program for Disabled Adults 

The CAP/DA waiver program provides additional in-home services beyond the scope of the regular Medicaid program and is for those aged 18 and over with disabilities that qualify them for nursing home level care. Program participants may have the option to self-direct their care, meaning they choose who provides the services in their care plans. In some cases, family and friends are eligible for hire. Some services this program covers include: 

  • Adult day care 
  • In-home aide services 
  • Personal assistance  
  • Case management 
  • Money management 
  • Respite care 
  • Pest control 
  • Chore services 
  • Basic housekeeping and laundry services 
  • Transportation for errands 
  • Home-delivered meals 
  • Home and vehicle modifications 

To qualify for services, applicants must be at least 18 years old and they must need an institutional level of care. They must also meet Medicaid’s eligibility requirements and need at least one service the waiver pays for. While regular Medicaid is an entitlement, CAP/DA has enrollment caps, and eligible applicants may be placed on a wait list until slots are available. Each county has an allotted number of waiver slots, so even if the program is at capacity in one county, other counties may have open slots.  

To apply for CAP/DA, you must fax a referral request to North Carolina Medicaid at (919) 715-0052.  

How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in North Carolina 

The primary purpose of NC Medicaid is to provide comprehensive health insurance for low-income individuals. As such, the program has strict income and asset limits. If you are single, you may have an annual income of up to $13,596. All types of earned and unearned income count towards this limit, including veterans’ and public benefits, stock dividends, pensions, withdrawals from retirement accounts and wages. You may have up to $2,000 in countable assets, which include savings accounts, investments and rental or vacation properties you own. Your primary residence, vehicle and personal belongings are exempt. If you’re married, the respective income and asset limits are $18,312 and $3,000.  

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in North Carolina  

Income Limits*
Asset Limits

Single Person

$13,596

$2,000

Two-Person Household

$18,312

$3,000

*Per year 

Along with meeting financial criteria, Medicaid applicants must meet additional requirements, including: 

  • They must be permanent North Carolina residents.
  • They must be legal U.S. citizens or residents.
  • They must need the coverage Medicaid provides.

How to Apply for Medicaid in North Carolina 

You can apply for Medicaid online through ePASS or HealthCare.gov. Alternately, you can fill out a paper application and submit it to your nearest Division of Social Services office in person, by fax, through email or through the postal service. You can also contact the DSS to check on the status of your application.   

What Information You Will Need 

To expedite the approval process, you should ensure that you have supporting documents on hand before submitting your Medicaid application. Some documents that you should have include: 

  • Driver’s license or state-issued ID card 
  • Policy numbers for primary health insurance, including TRICARE or Medicare 
  • Birth certificate 
  • Social Security card 
  • Proof of income 
  • Proof of assets 

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid 

If you need help applying for Medicaid or understanding your benefits, several agencies and programs can assist you in navigating the system and making important decisions regarding your health insurance coverage. The following resources are open to all North Carolina residents and include specialists, legal advisors and informational services.  

Contact
Area Served
Services Provided

(877) 201-3750

Statewide

The NC Medicaid Ombudsman Program advocates for Medicaid beneficiaries in the state to help them access the information and services they need. If you need help with applying for in-home care coverage or appealing denied claims or canceled coverage, you can contact the ombudsman for free assistance.

Online Only

Statewide

The American Council on Aging provides comprehensive, easy-to-understand information on NC Medicaid, including income and asset limits, how income and assets are calculated and what you can do if your resources exceed eligibility requirements. It has a database of Medicaid planners and publishes an overview of strategies that help individuals qualify for coverage.

(866) 219-5262

Statewide

At Legal Aid of North Carolina, a free Medicaid Managed Care Clinic provides general information on the state’s Medicaid program and answers to questions about its coverage. The organization's licensed legal professionals offer one-on-one assistance with applying for Medicaid benefits and other programs that may help cover in-home care.

(888) 245-0179

Statewide

The NC Medicaid Contact Center is open on weekdays and fields calls from individuals with questions about the Medicaid application process, benefits and filing appeals for denied claims.

Does Medicare Cover In-Home Care in North Carolina?

In general, Medicare does not cover the cost of non-medical home care. That being said, there are situations in which Medicare provides some coverage for medical home care, referred to as “Home Healthcare.” There are several eligibility restrictions for coverage, including that individuals must be homebound and have a referral from their doctor specifically for home healthcare services.

Below is an overview of some of the skilled medical professionals whose in-home services are typically covered by Medicare – for more in-depth information, refer to our Guide to Home Healthcare.

  • Physical Therapists: Physical therapy is used to help patients recover from injuries (broken bones, knee injuries, etc.), treat ongoing conditions such as arthritis, and assist in recovery from surgeries and procedures such as a knee or hip replacement.
  • Visiting Nurses: Licensed nurses can provide a number of medical services for those who don’t need to stay in the hospital, but do need regular medical services such as wound care, changing feeding tubes, etc.
  • Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists help seniors regain or maintain the ability to accomplish normal, daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and other daily activities.
  • Speech Therapists: Speech therapists help seniors who are struggling to adequately communicate due to a stroke, dementia, or any other cause regain the ability to functionally communicate using a variety of means. Additionally, speech therapists help to keep seniors independent by modifying diets, teaching special techniques to swallow safely, and retraining associated muscles.

As mentioned above, in-home care is distinctly different from home healthcare. But, there can be some overlap in services between the two types of care. So, while Medicare doesn’t cover non-medical in-home care, there are in-home care services that may be covered in special circumstances when they’re provided in conjunction with home healthcare (such as an occupational therapist helping with eating or dressing)

Other Financial Assistance Options for In-Home Care in North Carolina

While the above programs help many people finance in-home care, they will not cover all costs for everyone. There are other ways to pay for in-home care, including out-of-pocket arrangements with siblings, annuities, reverse mortgages, private insurance and more. Read Caring.com’s Guide to In-Home Care Costs to learn more about these alternative payment options.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in North Carolina

The following table highlights resources in North Carolina that can help you obtain the services you need to age in place.

Contact
Area Served
 Services Provided

Statewide

Multiple senior centers throughout North Carolina provide residents with recreational activities and social services to help them maintain their physical and mental health and independence. These centers offer free and low-cost congregate meals, transportation services and information and referral services that may help you reduce in-home care costs. Centers also host special events throughout the year, such as tax preparation assistance, driving classes and technology courses. 

(855) 408-1212

Statewide

SHIIP provides free, unbiased health insurance options counseling for Medicare-eligible individuals in North Carolina. You can contact the program’s toll-free helpline for one-on-one assistance with understanding your Medicare benefits and assessing Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans available in your zip code. SHIIP counselors can also help you read and understand medical bills and resolve issues such as double charges, charges for services not rendered and denied health insurance coverage. 

(800) 662-7030

Statewide

North Carolina has 16 Area Agencies on Aging, which are funded through the Older Americans Act and provide free and low-cost services to help those aged 60 and over maintain their independence. Through your local AAA, you can find home-delivered meals, volunteer-based transportation, friendly check-in services, durable medical equipment loans and prescription drug assistance. In some regions, AAAs provide low-cost in-home care services, which can reduce the amount you pay for services each month. 

(844) 624-8387

Statewide

The N.C. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has offices in every county in the state, providing convenient access to in-person and over-the-phone benefits counseling and assistance. If you’re a veteran, you can contact the department for help obtaining state and federal benefits, including those that may help cover in-home care or offset care expenses. Your local office can also connect you to counseling, transportation, wellness and medical services in the community.

(800) 942-2677

Statewide

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP is the largest nationwide program that provides exclusive volunteer opportunities to older adults. Through their local RSVP chapter, those aged 55 and over can serve their communities in ways that fit their schedules, interests and abilities. The program offers free placement services and on-the-job training as well as mileage reimbursement, invitations to recognition events and regular newsletters. 

(919) 855-3400

Statewide

The Division of Aging and Adult Services offers benefits, outreach and advocacy, opportunities and direct services to meet the needs of older North Carolina residents and help them age in place. It operates Adult Protective Services, which investigates reports of elder abuse or neglect. It also maintains a list of in-home aide agencies to help you begin the process of finding services in your area. 

2-1-1

Statewide

NC211 is an information and referral service that serves as a single point of entry to community-based services in the state. You can contact this free, confidential service for help obtaining home-delivered meals, securing home modification or weatherization services, emergency bill pay and volunteer-based transportation services.

COVID-19 Rules for In-Home Care Providers in North Carolina

Unless they have an exemption, home health care aides in North Carolina must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before working directly with seniors. This rule is current as of April 2022, but as new information on the virus is available or variants are introduced to the population, guidelines may continue to evolve. The local Area Agency on Aging or health department may have the latest guidelines that home health care agencies are required to follow.  

Currently, there are no vaccine mandates for in-home aides. However, agencies may have their own safety guidelines that exceed state and federal regulations. If you have questions or concerns about the precautions your home care agency takes against COVID, it may be a good idea to contact the agency directly.  

In-Home Care Laws and Regulations in North Carolina

The North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation regulates home care providers throughout the state. This agency is also responsible for the licensing of home care agencies. The table below gives a basic overview of the rules and regulations that home care agencies in North Carolina must follow.

In-Home Care Laws and Regulations in North Carolina
Scope of Care
Licensed home care agencies in North Carolina may provide nutrition care services, personal care and housekeeping services, and health care services, including occupational therapy, physical therapy and nursing.
Care Plan Requirements
Home care agencies must provide detailed information to clients regarding the provided services, as well as the times and days of service provision.
Medication Management Requirements
Home health aides must complete state-mandated medication administration training prior to assisting with or administering medication.
Staff Screening Requirements
All home care workers must undergo a statewide criminal background check.
Staff Training Requirements
Home health aides are required to complete a training program approved by the Division of Health Service Regulation.
Medicaid Coverage
Medicaid's Community Alternatives and Personal Care Services Programs cover the cost of in-home care services for seniors.
Reporting Abuse
Abuse can be reported to North Carolina's Long-Term Care Ombudsman by emailing Victor.orija@dhhs.nc.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does in-home care cost in North Carolina?

The cost of in-home care varies throughout North Carolina, depending on the agency and location. The average cost of in-home care in the state is $3,813 per month according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2019.

Are there programs to cover home modifications in North Carolina?

North Carolina Medicaid covers the cost of some home modifications. Additionally, several local agencies can provide assistance with home repairs and home modifications. These services can be accessed via local Area Agencies on Aging.

Are there transportation assistance programs in North Carolina?

Individual counties throughout North Carolina offer transportation assistance services. Seniors can contact their local Area Agencies on Aging to discover the transportation services that are available in their county.

Does North Carolina Pay For In-Home Care?

North Carolina pays for in-home care through the Medicaid Personal Care Services program. Medicaid only covers the cost of medically necessary services directly. Home and community-based services are covered by Medicaid waiver programs. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, in-home care is around $4,385 per month, which is a less expensive option than nursing home care but is slightly more than assisted living. Read More

What are “Activities of Daily Living”?

Activities of daily living are self-care tasks that seniors must complete on a daily basis. This includes activities such as bathing, dressing, eating and basic mobility. It’s important to note that activities of daily living are not to be confused with instrumental activities of daily living, which include tasks such as grocery shopping and financial management.

What types of services does a home care aide provide?

An in-home care aide provides personal care and assistance with activities of daily living, as well as additional services such as cleaning, cooking and companionship.

Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, family members can be paid for in-home care of a family member or loved one via three options. First, Medicaid-eligible seniors who need nursing home level care can receive help through the Community Alternative Program for Disabled Adults. The state also offers In-Home Aide Services through the Department of Health for seniors who need in-home care, but who are not using Medicaid to pay for it. Finally, qualified veterans can use their Aid and Attendance pension to pay a family caregiver who is not their spouse. Read More

How to Find an In-Home Care Provider in North Carolina

Whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one, finding a quality home care provider can be a stressful process. When you hire an in-home care aide you’re placing a lot of trust in the hands of the person by inviting them into your home, so you’ll want to be diligent in your search. At Caring.com, we’re here to help – we’ve created a helpful checklist below that can help guide you through the process of both determining your needs and finding a home care agency that will provide the best care possible.

Finding a Home Care Provider Checklist

Find Home Care Agencies Near You

To find quality home care providers near you, simply input the zip code or city where you would like to start your search. We have an extensive directory of home care agencies all across the nation that includes in-depth information about each provider and hundreds of thousands of reviews from seniors and their loved ones.

Directory of Home Care Services in Raleigh, NC

Marywins Home Care Services LLC

2609 Atlantic Avenue Raleigh. Suite 101B, Raleigh, NC, 27604

I gave 4 stars to Marywins home caregivers for their professionalism in caregiving. Our family are very much satisfied with the treatment and care they are providing to my mother. Their professional … (read more)
I gave 4 stars to Marywins home caregivers for their professionalism in caregiving. Our family are very much satisfied with the treatment and care they are providing to my mother. Their professional … (read more)

Visiting Angels – Raleigh, NC

5003 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27609

Do not hire this agency. Their initial in person consult seems fine and promises of superb care and communication are emphasized. We needed an aide for a few hours a day for simple tasks for a patie … (read more)
Do not hire this agency. Their initial in person consult seems fine and promises of superb care and communication are emphasized. We needed an aide for a few hours a day for simple tasks for a patie … (read more)

Comfort Keepers Home Care of Cary, NC

1616 Evans Road, Cary, NC, 27519

Several years ago, we hired Comfort Keepers Cary to care for my parents. The reviews weren’t good at that time, but we liked the folks who came to visit and the nurse staff seemed competent, so we sig … (read more)
Several years ago, we hired Comfort Keepers Cary to care for my parents. The reviews weren’t good at that time, but we liked the folks who came to visit and the nurse staff seemed competent, so we sig … (read more)

Interim HealthCare of Raleigh, NC

6310 Chapel Hill Rd., Suite 280, Raleigh, NC, 27607

In our experience, the CNA staff is very kind but the management is absolutely horrible. They demand more and more money but do not follow through with services already agreed to. When we told them w … (read more)
In our experience, the CNA staff is very kind but the management is absolutely horrible. They demand more and more money but do not follow through with services already agreed to. When we told them w … (read more)

Homechoice Healthcare

4000 Blue Ridge Rd Suite 120, Raleigh, NC, 27612

They send us poor people. They are not responsive to our problems. I spend 3-4 hours per day trying to manage their people. After giving them nearly $40K in business over the past 8 months, they c … (read more)
They send us poor people. They are not responsive to our problems. I spend 3-4 hours per day trying to manage their people. After giving them nearly $40K in business over the past 8 months, they c … (read more)

Maxim Healthcare Raleigh, NC

8521 Six Forks Rd. , Suite 350, Raleigh, NC, 27615


Absolute Care Staffing Health Agency, Inc

111 Windel Dr, Suite 221, Raleigh, NC, 27609


Care One Nursing Services, Inc

319 Chapanoke Road #104, Raleigh, NC, 27603


Health Keeperz Inc. – Pembroke

209 W 3rd Street, PO Box 1030, Pembroke, NC, 28372


Comfort Keepers of Raleigh

8480 Honeycutt Rd, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC, 27615


Senior Helpers (CLOSED)

5007 Southpark Drive Suite 200-H, Durham, NC, 27713


ComForCare Home Care – Raleigh

3820 Merton Dr., Suite 203, Raleigh, NC, 27609


Griswold Home Care South Raleigh

5448 Apex Peakway, Suite 343, Apex, NC, 27502


BAYADA Adult Nursing

5505 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27612


1 On One Home Care

117 Heather Drive, Garner, NC, 27529


Continued Care

1140 Kildaire Farm Road , Suite 107, Cary, NC, 27511


Assurance Health Services

5530 Munford Road Suite 105, Raleigh, NC, 27612


ResCare HomeCare Raleigh, North Carolina

343 East Six Forks Road, Suite 170, Raleigh, NC, 27609


Gericare & Health Svc

3790 Guess Rd # 201, Durham, NC, 27705


1st Response Home Care LLC

106 fountain brook circle suite b2, Cary, NC, 27511


Home Care Services in North Carolina (505)