UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2026
Comparison · ElderCareCosts Research
Assisted Living vs Nursing Homes
Assisted living helps with daily activities while residents keep more independence than in a typical nursing facility.
Not medical advice. This page compares cost and logistics. It does not diagnose, treat, or recommend clinical care; talk with a clinician about health decisions.
Where they differ
Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 nursing care for higher medical needs.
Medicare may cover short skilled nursing stays under rules; assisted living room and board is generally not a Medicare benefit.
Sources
- Medicare.gov. Long-term care. Medicare long-term care coverage limits; custodial vs skilled framing; assisted living and other residential care generally not covered as room and board
- Medicare.gov. Skilled nursing facility care. Medicare skilled nursing facility coverage overview
- Medicaid.gov. LTSS. Medicaid LTSS / HCBS framing for home and residential supports
- CMS Care Compare. Nursing home and home health quality lookup on Medicare Care Compare
Related
Not sure which of these apply to your family?
We find licensed options near you, with the cost data we publish and payment options flagged. Data stays free either way.