When it comes to making decisions about residential care, one of the first and most important questions people ask is: how much does residential care cost?

It’s a fair question—and not an easy one to answer. The cost of residential care varies widely based on location, level of care needed, the type of care home, and what’s included in the fees. In this guide, we break down what you can expect to pay in 2025, what influences those costs, and how to plan ahead.

Whether you're a team leader helping a remote employee navigate elder care options or someone preparing for a family member’s next stage of life, having clear information can make all the difference.

What Is Residential Care?

Residential care—also referred to as a care home—offers a safe and supported living environment for individuals who may no longer be able to live independently. This could include older adults who need help with daily activities like washing, dressing, eating, or medication management.

It’s different from nursing care, which involves more advanced medical support. Residential care focuses on day-to-day wellbeing, social engagement, and routine health monitoring.

Average Residential Care Costs in the UK (2025)

Residential care fees in the UK typically range from £800 to over £1,600 per week in 2025, depending on the type of care and location. In the South East and London, prices tend to be on the higher end. In more rural areas, fees can be lower.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

These figures are estimates and can vary based on personal needs, room choices, and additional services.

What Affects the Cost?

Several key factors influence how much residential care will cost:

• Location: Urban areas, particularly London and the South East, typically come with higher costs.

• Level of care: More complex needs mean higher staffing and resources, increasing fees.

• Room and amenities: En-suite bathrooms, garden access, or larger rooms may come at a premium.

• Activities and services: Homes offering therapies, day trips, or in-house entertainment may charge more.

• Length of stay: Short-term respite care is often more expensive per week than long-term arrangements.

What’s Typically Included?

While each care provider is different, here’s what’s commonly included in residential care fees:

• 24/7 support from trained carers

• All meals and snacks

• Laundry and cleaning services

• Medication administration

• Personal care (washing, dressing, etc.)

• Activities and events

Optional extras like hairdressing, specialist therapies, or private GP services may incur additional charges.

Real-World Tip: Ask for a Cost Breakdown

Before committing to a care home, always ask for a detailed fee structure. A transparent provider will walk you through what’s included, any additional charges, and what support is available for managing fees.

Tip from a project manager in Brighton:
"We were managing a team member remotely whose mum needed care. The home they chose sent them a full cost sheet that helped her plan in advance. That level of clarity was crucial, especially during an emotional time."

Funding Residential Care

Paying for residential care often comes from a mix of personal savings, pensions, and property. In some cases, financial support is available:

• Local authority funding: If assets are below £23,250 (England, 2025 threshold), you may be eligible for partial or full support.

• NHS Continuing Healthcare: For those with significant ongoing health needs.

• Attendance Allowance: A non-means-tested benefit that can contribute toward personal care costs.

Understanding what you or your family member qualifies for can significantly ease the financial load. For further guidance, the Age UK care funding guide is a helpful place to start.

What Makes Oakland Care Different?

At Oakland Care, we believe residential care should be personal, transparent, and enriching. All our homes are purpose-built with comfort and dignity in mind.

What you can expect from Oakland Care:

• Personalised care plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

• Beautifully designed spaces that feel like home.

• Activities that foster connection, creativity, and joy.

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

• Full support for residents living with dementia.

We focus not just on meeting care needs, but on helping residents lead fulfilling lives—something that matters deeply to us and to the families we support.

If you're considering a care home for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to learn more about Oakland Care here.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Care Home

To ensure you're choosing the right home—and getting good value—ask the following:

• What exactly is included in the weekly fee?

• Are there any additional charges?

• What’s the staff-to-resident ratio?

• Can residents personalise their space?

• What kind of activities are offered daily?

• Is dementia care available if needed later on?

Taking time to visit (in person or virtually), speaking with staff, and asking these kinds of questions can help you feel confident in your decision.

Final Thoughts: Planning Makes All the Difference

So, how much does residential care cost? The short answer: it depends. But the longer answer is more empowering—because once you understand the factors that influence the cost and what you’re paying for, you can plan with clarity and confidence.

Whether you're looking now or planning ahead, taking the time to explore options, ask questions, and understand funding pathways can make this transition far smoother.

Choosing the right home is about more than cost—it’s about peace of mind, comfort, and quality of life. And when you find a provider who sees the individual behind the care plan, the value becomes clear.