Quick answer
Live-in care is usually priced as a daily rate rather than by the hour, and it assumes the caregiver gets sleep and meal breaks. The survey we use doesn't publish a live-in rate, so we don't quote one. For context, the 2025 median for hourly home care was $34 in Kansas and $33 in Missouri (CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025). Get written quotes from agencies, and check how they handle nights and breaks. (800) 614-8388 to compare options.
How live-in pricing usually works
- Daily rate: one price per day for a caregiver living in the home.
- Sleep and breaks: the caregiver needs uninterrupted sleep and breaks. If your parent needs help often at night, you may need awake overnight care instead, priced by the hour.
- Room and board: the caregiver needs a private place to sleep, and meals.
- Relief caregivers: someone covers days off.
Live-in vs. 24-hour shift care
| Live-in care | 24-hour shift care | |
|---|---|---|
| Staffing | One caregiver living in, with relief | Two or three caregivers in shifts, always awake |
| Pricing | Usually a daily rate | Usually hourly |
| Best for | Parents who sleep through most nights | Parents who need help often at night |
See 24-hour home care costs for the hourly math.
Agency vs. private hire
- Agency: screens, employs and backs up caregivers; usually costs more.
- Private hire: may cost less, but you handle screening, payroll and taxes, and backup. Ask a tax professional about household employer rules.
Questions to ask
- What's the daily rate, and what's included?
- How many hours of sleep and breaks are required?
- What happens if my parent needs help at night?
- Who covers the caregiver's days off?
- Are there extra charges for holidays?
Compare with other options
For full-time care, assisted living had a 2025 median of $5,975 a month in Kansas and $5,400 in Missouri.
Considering live-in care?
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Questions families ask
How much does a live-in caregiver cost?
Live-in care is usually priced by the day. We don't quote an average without a reliable published source; get written quotes.
Is live-in care cheaper than 24-hour care?
Often, because the caregiver sleeps. It doesn't suit parents who need frequent help at night.
Do I have to provide room and board?
Yes. Live-in caregivers need a private sleeping space and meals.
Does Medicare pay for live-in care?
No.