A guide for families considering private-pay home care—and what goes into the cost.

Why Families Ask This Question

When caring for an aging loved one, one of the first questions families ask is:
“How much is private in-home care going to cost?”

It’s a fair question, especially in Southern California, where the cost of living is high and options for care can vary widely. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of help each week or full-time support, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for and what you’re getting.

This article breaks down average costs, factors that affect pricing, and how Seniors Helping Seniors® structures its services to provide value, flexibility, and peace of mind.

What Is Private In-Home Care for Seniors?

Private in-home care refers to non-medical support services paid out-of-pocket by the client or their family, not through insurance, VA benefits, or state programs like the Regional Center system.

Services often include:

• Personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)
  
• Help around the home (e.g., light cleaning, laundry)
  
• Companionship and conversation
  
• Transportation to appointments or errands
  
• Meal preparation and medication reminders

Private in-home care can be ongoing or temporary, part-time or full-time. Its flexibility is one of the main reasons families choose it.

Average Cost of In-Home Care in Southern California (2024-2025)

According to Genworth’s 2024 Cost of Care Survey, the average hourly rate for a home care aide in California is approximately $33 to $38 per hour, but in Southern California (Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego), the range is more commonly:

• $30–$35 per hour for companion-level care
  
• $35–$45 per hour for personal care or specialized assistance
  
• $350–$600 per 24-hour period for live-in or continuous care

External Resource:
Genworth 2024 Cost of Care Survey – California

These costs vary based on the amount of care, time of day, weekend or holiday needs, and whether the caregiver is employed through an agency or hired privately.

What Influences the Cost of Care?

Several factors affect private home care pricing:

• Level of Care Needed – Personal care or dementia support costs more than simple companionship or errands.
  
• Caregiver Experience – More seasoned caregivers or those with special training may have higher rates.
  
• Schedule – Evening, overnight, or weekend shifts may increase hourly costs.
  
• Live-in Care vs. Hourly – Around-the-clock care is usually billed as a flat daily or weekly rate.
  
• Agency vs. Private Hire – Agencies handle insurance, background checks, and replacement staffing, which can raise the rate but reduce risk.
  

How Seniors Helping Seniors® Delivers Private In-Home Care

At Seniors Helping Seniors, we tailor private in-home care to each family’s needs, starting with a complimentary in-home assessment. Our pricing is transparent, with no long-term contracts and flexible scheduling.

Here’s what you can expect with our private-pay services:

• Personalized Care Plans
  We listen to your goals, schedule, and budget to develop a care plan that evolves as your loved one’s needs change. Whether it’s a few hours per week or full-day support, we’re here to help.
  
• Companionship from Someone Who Understands
  Our caregivers are seniors themselves—often retired teachers, nurses, or community volunteers—who bring empathy, life experience, and friendship into every visit.
  
• Assistance With Daily Living
  From help with bathing or preparing meals to rides to doctor’s appointments, our caregivers provide non-medical support with dignity and encouragement.
  
• Family Transparency and Coordination
  Using our ClearCare Family Room portal, family members can view schedules, notes, and updates from anywhere—helping you stay informed and connected.
  

Is It Worth the Cost?

While private in-home care is an investment, it can be more affordable than assisted living or skilled nursing, especially when care is tailored to just what you need, no more, no less.

In fact, remaining at home can reduce emotional stress, support overall well-being, and often delay the need for more intensive (and expensive) care settings.

Stat Reference:
According to AARP, nearly 90% of seniors prefer to age in place, and home-based care has been shown to improve health outcomes and satisfaction compared to institutional care. AARP: Caregiving Fact Sheet

What You Can Takeaway From This Article

• Private in-home care in Southern California typically ranges from $30–$45 per hour, depending on the level of support needed.
  
• Seniors Helping Seniors® offers flexible, personalized care plans that adapt to your family’s budget and goals.
  
• Services include personal care, companionship, daily assistance, and family coordination, all delivered by caring, mature professionals.
  
• Private in-home care is often more affordable and emotionally supportive than moving into a facility.