Care Home Fees Calculator
Care home fees in the UK typically cost £800 to £1,500 per week, meaning annual costs can reach £40,000 to £80,000 depending on location and care needs.
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A common misconception is that the NHS or local council will automatically pay. In reality, if your assets exceed £23,250 in England, you must self-fund entirely. Your home is usually included after 12 weeks, unless a spouse or dependent still lives there.
Understanding care home fees and the means test helps families plan ahead and explore funding options. Enter your financial details below to estimate whether you would self-fund or qualify for council support.
Already know the likely weekly fee? The care home savings calculator projects how long your savings and investments could last paying it, and when they could reach the capital limits.
Care Home Fees Calculator
Bank accounts, ISAs, shares, bonds
Estimated market value of main home
Average UK care home: £800-£1,500/week. Nursing care: £1,000-£2,000/week
Understanding Care Home Funding (England)
Care home costs in England are means-tested based on your capital (savings and property) and income. Understanding the thresholds helps you plan and know what to expect.
Above £23,250
Self-funded: You pay the full cost of your care home fees. The council won't contribute until your capital falls below this threshold.
£14,250 - £23,250
Partial support: The council contributes but you pay "tariff income" (£1/week per £250 of capital above £14,250) plus contributions from actual income.
Below £14,250
Council-funded: Your capital is disregarded. You may still contribute from income (pensions) but the council covers most care costs.
When Is Property Disregarded?
Your home isn't always counted in the means test. The property is completely disregarded if:
✓ Your spouse or partner still lives there
This includes civil partners and unmarried partners.
✓ A relative aged 60+ lives there
Parents, adult children, siblings, or other close relatives.
✓ A disabled or incapacitated relative lives there
Regardless of age, if they're disabled or incapacitated.
✓ First 12 weeks of permanent care
The "12-week property disregard" gives you time to decide about your home.
If none apply: Your property value counts towards your capital after the 12-week disregard. You may need to sell, rent it out, or use a deferred payment agreement.
Typical Care Home Costs (2026/27)
| Care Type | Weekly Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Residential care (no nursing) | £800 - £1,200 | £41,600 - £62,400 |
| Nursing care | £1,000 - £1,500 | £52,000 - £78,000 |
| Dementia specialist care | £1,200 - £2,000 | £62,400 - £104,000 |
| London/South East premium | +20-40% | — |
Costs vary significantly by location and care home. NHS-funded nursing care (FNC) contributes approximately £219.71/week towards nursing costs if you have nursing needs.
Planning for Care Costs
Immediate Needs Annuity
A lump sum buys a guaranteed income to pay care fees for life. Useful if you're already in care and want certainty.
Pre-funded Care Plans
Insurance products that pay out if you need long-term care. Usually purchased before care is needed.
Deferred Payment Agreement
The council pays fees; debt secured against your home and repaid from your estate. Interest applies.
Equity Release
Release cash from your home to pay for care, though this reduces your estate. Seek independent advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Important Information
Care funding rules are complex and this calculator provides estimates only. Local authority assessments also consider income and individual circumstances. Rules differ significantly in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Proposed reforms may change thresholds in future. Always consult with your local council adult social care team or an independent financial adviser specialising in later-life planning.
Last updated: April 2026. England thresholds for 2026/27 tax year.
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