How Much Does Aged Care Actually Cost?
Aged care costs depend on your parent's income, assets and where they live. Get a personalised estimate in 5 minutes — free, no registration.
Start the Cost Estimator →Updated March 2026 · Based on official government rates · Not financial advice
- ✓Free — no registration
- ✓Based on official government rates
- ✓Takes 5 minutes
- ✓Updated March 2026
What Does Aged Care Cost?
These figures are based on the current government rates. Your parent's actual costs will vary — use the estimator for a personalised figure.
$63.57/day
Basic daily fee
Everyone pays this — it doesn't depend on income or assets
$350k–$550k
Average RAD (metro)
Refundable Accommodation Deposit — refunded when leaving the facility
$55k–$120k+
Estimated total annual cost
Varies significantly by income, assets, location and payment method
These figures vary significantly based on your parent's individual circumstances. Get your personalised estimate →
What This Site Helps You Understand
The three questions every family asks — answered clearly, with real numbers.
What fees you'll be charged — and why
Aged care costs are made up of three separate fees. We explain each one in plain language and show how your parent's specific income and assets affect the total.
Whether to pay a lump sum or daily rate
The RAD vs DAP decision is worth tens of thousands of dollars. We compare the options based on current interest rates and show which is likely better for your situation.
Whether income covers costs or capital is needed
We calculate whether your parent's income (pension, super, investments) covers the full cost — and if not, how long their assets would last at the current shortfall.
Popular Guides
Plain-language explainers on the topics that matter most when researching aged care costs.
How Aged Care Fees Work →
A plain-language guide to every fee type — basic daily fee, means-tested fee and accommodation costs. With worked examples.
RAD Explained Simply →
Everything you need to know about the Refundable Accommodation Deposit — what it is, how it's calculated, and whether you should pay it.
Aged Care and the Family Home →
The family home is the most consequential asset in aged care planning. The 2-year exemption rule, couple provisions, and what selling means for fees.
Aged Care for Couples →
When one partner enters residential care, different rules apply. Illness-separated pension, couple assets, and what it means for the partner at home.
Ready to get your estimate?
Answer 5 quick questions about income, assets and location. No registration, no sales calls — just a clear, personalised figure.
Start the Cost Estimator →