How much does home care cost?
Clear, honest pricing for hourly and live-in care
Knowing the cost of care upfront can take a lot of the stress out of planning support for you or your loved one. We’re here to make things simple, with transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and a friendly team to guide you through your options.
Speak to a care expert
- Transparent pricing - Clear breakdowns for both hourly and live-in care.
- Flexible to your needs - Pay only for the support you want, when you want it.
- No hidden extras - Everything is clearly explained from the start.
You get what you pay for - the care you get is from someone who truly cares about you. Unique gives you their time, and you really benefit from it.
Are you interested in hourly or live-in care costs?
Live-in Care
Hourly Care
Round-the-clock care, right at home
Live-in care means having someone you trust living with you to provide support throughout the day and night. It’s a reassuring option for anyone who wants to stay at home but needs a little extra help to feel safe and comfortable.
You’ll get to know your Caregiver well, and they’ll be there to help with everything from personal care to keeping you company.
How much does live-in care cost?
Live-in care costs vary depending on the level of support needed, the complexity of care, and whether the care is for an individual or a couple.
Care for individuals
Attentive one-to-one support from a fully-trained Caregiver ensures all your needs are met and you can remain safe and comfortable at home.
From £265 /per day
No setup fees
Free assessment
Care for couples
An expert Caregiver provides personalised, round-the-clock care for both partners, ensuring they can continue to live comfortably together at home.
From £330 /per day
No setup fees
Free assessment
Additional costs
Food for your Caregiver: Many clients include their Caregiver in the weekly shop, but if not, a £40 food allowance can be added to your invoice.
Outings or Hobbies: Activities are encouraged, but you’ll just need to cover any personal costs like meals, tickets, or transport if required.
What our pricing includes
- Tailored care plans to meet individual needs
- Emotional support and companionship
- Help with daily activities: personal care, meal prep, light housework, and medication management
- Specialist care for complex conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s
- Regular check-ins and updates with family members
- 24/7 support from a dedicated Care Manager
- No minimum term or lengthy contracts
Inspected and rated
Outstanding by the CQC
Got questions?
We understand that live-in care is a significant commitment, both emotionally and financially. You're not just arranging support, you're welcoming someone into your home.
That’s why our service is designed to be as thorough, flexible and reassuring as possible. Everything is taken care of on your behalf, so you can focus on what matters most.
Watch our video to understand everything you need to know about the cost of live-in care.
Watch to learn about live-in care costs
Why it costs what it does
Our live-in care costs more than some alternatives – and that’s because of the standard we hold ourselves to. We’re proud to be rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, placing us among the top 5% of homecare providers with this rating in England.
Our training is award-winning, and every Caregiver we employ is supported, supervised and part of a team that genuinely cares about doing things properly. You’re not just paying for someone to be present, you’re investing in a carefully managed service that prioritises safety, continuity and compassion. We never send strangers.
We take time to get to know you, match you with someone who truly fits, and stay involved throughout. Behind the scenes, we take care of everything: from rotas and cover to compliance, payroll and support – so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
All of this is included in the cost – giving you complete peace of mind that your loved one is in safe, capable and caring hands.
How do the costs compare?
When considering live-in care, it’s helpful to compare it to the two main alternatives - residential care homes and unregulated introductory agencies.
Compared to introductory agencies
Introductory agencies, who are unregulated, often appear cheaper upfront.
They match you with a self-employed Caregiver but don’t manage anything beyond that.
You’ll need to handle contracts, holiday cover, pay, insurance, and training.
This option can work for families who are confident managing care themselves.
With regulated care like our, everything is fully managed and regulated, offering peace of mind.
Compared to care homes
The weekly cost for individuals is often similar to that of a care home.
For couples, live-in care can be more cost-effective, as one Caregiver supports both people.
Care homes usually charge separately for each person, which can double the cost.
Live-in care provides one-to-one support and the ability to stay in familiar surroundings.
Care homes offer a more social, community-based environment which can ease loneliness.
“The two live in carers looking after my mum were amazing!”
Live in care allows your loved one to stay in the comfort of their own home while receiving compassionate, one-to-one support from familiar Caregivers. It’s a more personalised alternative to a care home that helps maintain independence, well-being, and connection to their community.
Paula W (Daughter of Client)
Personalised care in just 1 week or less
Simple steps to get the right live-in care in place quickly
1. You’ve found the right care
You’re on the right path to personalised live in care.
You're here
2. Free assessment
Call or enquire online. We’ll start with a chat and arrange a free home visit within days to ensure you get the right care.
3. Crafting your care plan
We’ll create a care plan tailored to your loved one’s needs and lifestyle.
4. Matching your Caregiver
Together we'll find a Caregiver who's a perfect match for your loved one’s needs and personality.
5. Care in place
Care usually starts within a week. Your Care Manager will attend on day one and check in again on day seven.
Worried about costs?
We know that care can be a big financial commitment, and many families aren’t sure what help might be available.
That’s why we’re always open about what we charge, and we’ll walk you through any funding options that could make things easier. Give us a call for a no-obligation chat about your needs. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and let you know how we can help.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to your questions about the cost of live-in care
Rated 9.8/10 on homecare.co.uk
One of the Top 20 Home Care Groups in 2026 - homecare.co.uk
Speak to our live in care experts
Meet Stacey, your friendly expert care advisor
Navigating Live in care can feel overwhelming, and we understand how personal this decision is. We're here to guide you every step of the way—offering advice, reassurance, and ensuring your loved one receives the highest quality care.
- Quick 30-minute call: We'll discuss your situation and provide expert advice on care options.
- Book a free assessment: If you're ready, we can arrange a no-obligation assessment to match your needs.
- Fast, flexible care setup: We can start care within days if necessary, ensuring your loved one receives prompt, personalised support.
Inspected and rated
Outstanding by the CQC
FREE assessment enquiry
Stacey or one of our team of friendly and experienced care advisors, will be in touch as soon as possible by phone or email to discuss your live in care needs.
Speak to a care expert: 0186 550 7002
Page written by:
With over 40 years of experience in the care industry, providing outstanding care has always been Helena’s core mission.
Helena has been a dedicated member of Unique Senior Care for eight years, starting as Care Manager and advancing to Head of Extra Care and now serving as Director of Operations.
She holds a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People’s Services (England), as well as a Diploma in Welfare Services. Helena has completed various leadership and management courses, enhancing her expertise in the care industry.
Helena has authored published articles, including one for Skills for Care on managing change through the COVID pandemic. She has a steadfast commitment to advocating for and supporting those in need, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights upheld.