Whether seniors are looking for the bustle of a big city or the close-knit community of country living, they can find the perfect location in New York. The state is home to around 19.5 million people, and almost 17% are aged 65 and over. The state provides its older adults with many resources to help them age comfortably. New York has some of the best hospitals in the country, including a number that are highly rated for geriatric specialties.

There are also approximately 620 nursing homes across the state, which offer long-term care that can include skilled nursing, medical monitoring and treatments. This is in addition to meals, activities and personal care. The average cost of a semi-private nursing home room in New York is $12,319 per month, while a private room comes to $12,927.

This page provides data on the cost of nursing home care in New York to help seniors and their families make informed decisions about their future care. There’s also information about financial assistance and other resources available to seniors, as well as rules and regulations that cover nursing home care in the state.

The Cost of Nursing Home Care in New York

Genworth Financial’s Cost of Care 2020 Survey shows that the average monthly cost of nursing home care in New York is $12,319. This is $4,563 higher than the national average. New York is also more expensive than many of its neighbors. Seniors in Vermont pay just $9,779 per month and those in Pennsylvania pay $10,038. Costs are a little higher in New Jersey, but still less expensive than New York at $11,254 per month. Connecticut is slightly less affordable, with a cost of $12,927, $608 more than New York.

$12319

New York

$7756

The United States

$10038

Pennsylvania

$11254

New Jersey

$12927

Connecticut

$9779

Vermont

New York is a large state and the cost of nursing home care can vary widely depending on the location. In the state’s largest city, New York, the cost is $11,771. Binghamton and Utica are more affordable, with costs of $11,543 and $9,581 respectively. In Rochester, the cost is $12,380 and in Buffalo it’s $12,669, while seniors in Syracuse pay $12,890. The state’s capital, Albany, is one of the more expensive cities, with a cost of $12,973, and seniors in New City pay $13,748. 

$11771

New York City

$12669

Buffalo

$12380

Rochester

$12890

Syracuse

$12973

Albany

$9581

Utica

$11543

Binghamton

$13748

New City

At $12,319 per month, nursing home care is the most expensive senior care option, due to the skilled nursing and medical care it provides. Adult day care is the most affordable option at $1,945 per month. This provides care in a group setting to seniors who live at home. Assisted living provides room, board and personal care and costs an average of $4,800 per month. In-home care provides non-medical services in the home and costs $4,814 per month. Home health care also offers care in the home, but can include medical and skilled nursing services, and costs $4,957. It may be an option for seniors that require a nursing home level of care but want to stay living in the community. 

$4814

In-Home Care

$4957

Home Health Care

$1945

Adult Day Care

$4800

Assisted Living Facility

$12319

Nursing Home Care

Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in New York?

Of the more than 19,835,000 people residing in New York, at least 7,386,139 of them are enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program. New York seniors aged 65 and over account for approximately 11% of those enrollments. For enrollees living in nursing homes, the program pays for the facility’s room and board in addition to standard health care services. Community-based long-term care services are also available to Medicaid recipients.

There are around 615 nursing homes in New York, all of which accept Medicaid. Together, these facilities have up to 121,077 certified nursing home beds and provide residents with around-the-clock hospital-like care. New York Medicaid pays for a wide range of services including nursing home care, hospital inpatient and outpatient services, lab tests, physician and dental care, medical equipment and supplies. Seniors who need nursing care but prefer to remain living at home or within the community may be eligible for Medicaid Managed Care, which offers health care plans certified by the New York State Department of Health.  

Medicaid Eligibility in New York

An applicant must meet specific financial and medical criteria to be eligible for Medicaid in New York. To meet the basic eligibility requirements, you must:

  • Need health care assistance
  • Have a low income
  • Live with a medical disability and/or be 65 years of age or older
  • Be a resident of New York State
  • Be a United States citizen, permanent resident or legal alien

The financial eligibility requirements consist of income and asset limits for applicants. Assets or resources include cash, investments, second homes, savings and checking accounts. Burial funds or a life insurance policy with up to a $1,500 cash value, a car and pre-paid funeral trusts are exempt. If the applicant owns and intends to return to their primary home, that is exempt if the home equity interest is below $955,000.  

For a single applicant, monthly income must not exceed $934 and countable liquid assets are limited to $16,800. The non-applicant’s income limit is the same, but that person’s asset limit is higher at $137,400 because of the financial protection provided by the Spousal Impoverishment Act. This Congressional Act protects the assets for non-applicant spouses of Medicaid applicants seeking long-term care. It helps prevent one spouse from becoming poverty-stricken so the applicant spouse can become eligible for Medicaid. If both spouses are applying for nursing home Medicaid, the monthly income limit is increased to $1,367 with $24,600 in allowable assets. 

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in New York

Annual Income Limits

Asset Limits

Single Applicant

$11,208

$16,800

Two-Person Household

(Only One Person Applying)

$11,208

$137,400

Two-Person Household

(Both People Applying)

$16,404

$24,600

How to Apply for Medicaid in New York

Seniors can apply for Medicaid in New York through their local New York State Department of Social Services. Each county houses at least one social services office. You can either apply by going to an office in person, submitting a written application or calling the social services office in your area. A person can also apply for Medicaid online at the New York State Department of Health website. The health department has a help line to call for more information at 1-855-355-5777.

Information You Will Need

  • Copy of birth certificate 
  • Social Security card
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residence (e.g., passport, driver’s license, green card)
  • Proof of income (e.g., Social Security award letter, retirement benefit statements)
  • All bank statements that cover the last 60 months preceding your application date
  • Life insurance documents
  • Property deeds or proof of residence
  • Medicare card
  • Any other insurance cards or policy papers
  • Automobile registration or title
  • Preneed burial contracts
  • Irrevocable trust documentation for funeral expenses
  • If applicable, power of attorney papers

Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in New York

The list below contains contact details and a brief explanation of resources available to seniors and their families in New York State who are navigating the complicated process of applying for Medicaid assistance. 

Resource

Contact

Service

(800) 342-9871

This statewide system provides New Yorkers with information about long-term services and supports available to older adults and people with disabilities. Help is available for finding various types of health services and legal assistance and assisting with Medicaid applications and getting information about the eligibility process. Seniors can obtain help and information either by telephone, online or in person at a local NY Connects office location. 

1-855-582-6769

This program is a resource for nursing homes and other long-term care residents in New York who need an advocate to resolve problems affecting their quality of life and care needs. Volunteers act as representatives to educate the elderly and act as mediators to protect their rights.

Online only

The American Council on Aging has state-specific information concerning Medicaid eligibility for long-term care, such as income and asset limits. The website also provides an online Medicaid eligibility test for seniors and information on ways to qualify for Medicaid if you're over the income or asset limits.

Local office phone numbers and locations available online

The Area Agency on Aging in New York has an office in every county. Seniors and their families can obtain assistance with Medicaid information, health insurance counseling and a variety of other services through this agency.

(800) 541-2831

New York State has a toll-free Medicaid Helpline to help people with general queries about Medicaid as well as specific numbers to call for reporting Medicaid fraud and for those living in New York City.

Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in New York?

Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, but seniors must meet a number of specific requirements. This benefit is available to beneficiaries who have been hospitalized for at least three days, excluding the date of discharge, so it’s most valuable for those who are recovering from an injury, illness or surgery.

Once seniors meet the hospitalization requirement, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days of skilled nursing per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full. Starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.

What Does Medicare Cover?

Medicare covers a number of specific services, including:

  • Meals
  • A semiprivate room
  • Medications
  • Skilled nursing
  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • Audiologist care
  • Medical supplies
  • Medical social services
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Ambulance transportation

What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care that addresses seniors’ day-to-day needs. This includes help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and using medical equipment.

For more information about Medicare and when it covers Nursing Home Care, read our Guide to Nursing Homes.

Medicare Support & Resources in New York

When considering nursing home care for a loved one, families may wonder whether Medicare will cover some or all the costs involved. While it’s true that Medicare health insurance may be of some assistance initially, it is not a resource for covering long-term care costs. Trained staff associated with the organizations listed below may be able to provide information and help with your individual circumstances.

Resource

Contact

Service

(800) 701-0501

HICAP counselors are available in local offices throughout the state to answer residents' questions about Medicare, managed Medicare programs, prescription drug plans, Medigap and long-term care insurance issues. The helpline telephone number is open from Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(866) 815-5440

Livanta is a Beneficiary and Family Centered Care Quality Improvement Organization that performs medical case reviews and advocates for the rights of Medicare recipients. Counselors can address complaints, answer questions about Medicare claims and appeal a discharge from a health care facility.

(800) 633-4227

The federal Medicare website provides information on costs, how to apply for Medicare, what this insurance covers and much more, including links to various other government websites. The site has a live chat function that's available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, excluding some federal holidays. Phone numbers and websites for Medicare organizations and services in New York can also be obtained by selecting your state from the drop-down menu. 

Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in New York

While Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most common programs used to pay for Nursing Home Care, there are other financial assistance options available, depending on your unique situation.

How to Apply

How It Works

Aid and Attendance

Learn more and apply online at va.gov.

Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for skilled nursing care.

Reverse Mortgages

Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov

If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for nursing care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan.

Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance

Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov.

Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for skilled nursing care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in New York

Families and their elderly loved ones seeking or considering nursing home care can often feel overwhelmed by the complexities involved in finding the best solutions for their needs. Thankfully, there exists a variety of free and subsidized resources within New York State to help clarify the system and ease a move towards long-term care.

Resource

Contact

Service

(800) 332-3742

The EPIC program is administered by the NYS Department of Health. This plan covers people who don't have sufficient insurance for their prescription drugs and are not eligible for Medicaid. This coverage works in tandem with Medicare Part D drug coverage to provide extra help for affording medications.

(877) 222-8387

If you or your spouse is a Veteran, you may be eligible for long-term care and services in a Veterans Affairs state nursing home, assisted living center or within a senior's own home. Services include around-the-clock nursing and medical care, help with daily living tasks and support for family caregivers who need respite. Individuals must meet eligibility requirements which include signing up for VA health care, medical need for treatment and personal care and an opening in the care setting near you. The VA covers some services, but additional funding may be necessary to cover all costs.

(585) 287-6393

The NYSCRC provides support and information to informal caregivers helping elderly family members and loved ones throughout the state. The counselors address the needs of caregivers by assisting them in finding planned or emergency care to provide them with short-term respite. This collaborative organization also assists in providing formal training in caregiving to family members.

Local numbers available online

EISEP provides seniors with non-medical services and supports to help them with some of the activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, shopping and meal preparation. The services also provide care management and additional support when necessary, including non-institutional respite care and ancillary services that allow a person to remain living safely within the community. Recipients may need to share some of the costs of services, which are determined on a sliding scale.

COVID-19 Rules for
Nursing Homes in New York

The following information is based on research done on several government websites, including coronavirus.health.ny.gov. These rules apply to Independent Living Communities and other types of senior living facilities. We’ve most recently updated this data on 2/13/2022, but since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving pandemic, contact your local senior living facility or Area Agency on Aging for more specific and up-to-date information.

Visitation Policies

RULES FOR NEW YORK COMMUNITIES

Can I visit my relative in person if he/she wants emotional support from me?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Can I visit my relative in person for end-of-life compassion care?

Yes

Will my loved one be required to self-quarantine after I visit him or her?

No

Do I need to wear PPE and/or a cloth mask if I do visit my relative in person?

Yes

Are Hairdressers and other non-medical contractors still allowed in senior living facilities?

Yes

Does the state recommend or require that senior living facilities assist families with setting up virtual visit alternatives?

Yes

Are visitors being screened for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are visitors being asked questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?

Yes

Outings & Social Activities

RULES FOR NEW YORK COMMUNITIES

Are residents allowed to leave the facility for non-medical reasons?

Yes

Are residents of senior living facilities who leave and return required to self-quarantine?

No (Conditions Apply)

Are senior living facilities required to cancel all group outings?

No

Are residents still eating together in the dining hall?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are facilities still allowed to host group activities within the community?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

COVID-19 Safety Measures for Staff and Residents

RULES FOR NEW YORK COMMUNITIES

Are staff members and contractors being screened for elevated temperatures?

Yes

Are staff members and contractors being tested for Coronavirus?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Are staff members and contractors being asked questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?

Yes

Are staff members required to regularly screen residents for coronavirus symptoms?

Yes

Are residents relied on to screen themselves and self-report potential coronavirus symptoms?

No

Are staff members required to take residents’ temperatures?

Yes

Are residents being tested for coronavirus?

Yes (Conditions Apply)

Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in New York

NURSING HOME LAWS AND REGULATIONS IN NEW YORK
Licensing Requirements
Nursing homes in New York must be licensed by the New York State Department of Health, Division of Quality and Surveillance for Nursing Homes and ICF/MR. They are defined as facilities that are subject to New York State Public Health Law that provide lodging for three or more residents who require regular nursing or other professional services. Nursing homes can be part of a larger facility. 
Staffing Requirements
New York nursing homes must have a sufficient number of nursing staff to provide nursing services that maintain the highest practicable physical, mental and psycho-social well-being of each resident. They must also be able to provide all the services detailed in each resident’s care plan. In addition, there must be a charge nurse on duty on each shift who is responsible for supervising all nursing activities. Facilities must also hire a director of nursing on a full-time basis.
Staff Training Requirements
Staff providing skilled nursing or other medical services, such as physical therapy, must be trained and licensed to provide these services. Nurse aides, who provide non-medical personal care and services, must also be trained and registered with the New York State RHCF Nurse Aide Registry. All personnel must undertake continuing staff development programs that increase their knowledge and skills. 
Admission Restrictions
Residents can only be admitted to New York nursing homes on a physician’s orders. Facilities can only accept a resident if they have the ability to provide adequate care. 
Care Planning Requirements
Residents must be assessed within 14 days of admission to determine their needs and functional capacity. This assessment is used to develop an individualized plan of care to meet the resident’s needs. Professional staff must review the assessment at least every three months and revise the care plan as required. Comprehensive assessments are also conducted at least once every 12 months and after any significant change in a resident’s condition.
Dietary and Nutritional Services Requirements
Nursing homes must provide residents with nourishing, palatable and well-balanced meals that meet their nutritional needs and any special dietary requirements. To facilitate this, facilities must employ a dietitian on a full-time, part-time or consulting basis. They must also employ sufficient staff to prepare meals. 
Specialized Rehabilitative Services
Nursing homes must provide any specialized rehabilitative services that are detailed in a resident’s plan of care. Facilities can either employ providers themselves or obtain services from an outside resource. All services must be provided by qualified personnel. 
Medication and Pharmaceutical Services
Facilities must provide pharmaceutical services in order to provide drugs and biologicals to residents. They must employ or obtain the services of a registered pharmacist and develop policies and procedures that ensure drugs are accurately administered to residents. 
Activities Requirements 
Facilities must have an activities program directed by a qualified professional. The program should be designed to meet the interests of residents, promote their well-being and help make their life more meaningful. Residents should be encouraged to choose their own activities and when they wish to participate.
Infection Control Requirements 
Nursing homes must have an infection control program in place to help prevent the transmission of disease. Facilities must maintain records of incidences of infections and report increased incidences to the Office of Health Systems Management. In addition, people known to have a communicable disease can’t have direct contact with residents or their food, if direct contact can transmit the disease. Before employment, staff must have a tuberculosis assessment and provide immunization certificates for rubella and measles.
Medicaid Coverage
In New York, Medicaid covers the cost of nursing home care for eligible seniors. In order to qualify, seniors must meet income and asset eligibility requirements, be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States and be assessed as requiring a nursing home level of care.

Nursing Homes Facilities in New York (128)