Care home fees explained: what’s included and what costs extra

Care home fees in England are quoted per week. A typical self-funder pays around £1,500 a week, more for nursing or dementia care and in London and the South East. See our care home costs in England page for the latest figures by region and council.

What the weekly fee usually includes

• A furnished room, heating, lighting and laundry
• All meals, snacks and drinks
• Personal care, day and night
• Activities in the home
• In a nursing home, care from registered nurses

What often costs extra

• Hairdressing, chiropody and some therapies
• Trips out and transport to appointments
• Newspapers, toiletries, a personal phone line or TV licence
• Escorts to hospital appointments

Ask for a written price list of extras before signing.

Why fees differ between homes

Fees depend on the level of care, the size and quality of the room, staffing, location and the operator. Nursing care usually costs a few hundred pounds a week more than residential care. Self-funders often pay more than councils for the same room.

How fees rise

Most homes raise fees once a year, usually in April. The contract should say how much notice you get and how the increase is worked out. Ask how much fees rose last year.

Help with fees

• If savings are under £23,250, the council may help: check what you would pay.
• In a nursing home, the NHS pays NHS-funded nursing care towards the nursing part.
• If the main need is a health need, ask about NHS Continuing Healthcare.
• Attendance Allowance continues for self-funders in a care home.

Reviewed by The Care Panel team on 21 October 2026. This guide is general information about care in England, not legal, medical or financial advice. Rules and rates change; check with your council or an adviser before making decisions.