Rhode Island vs South Dakota: Senior Care Cost Comparison (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of nursing home, assisted living, and home care costs.
Which State is More Affordable for Senior Care?
South Dakota has lower nursing home costs by $2,526/month ($30,312/year). Over 5 years, that's a difference of $151,560.
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Care Type | Rhode Island | South Dakota | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Home (Private) | $10,830/mo | $8,304/mo | +$2,526 |
| Nursing Home (Semi-Private) | $9,963/mo | $7,452/mo | +$2,511 |
| Assisted Living | $5,250/mo | $4,000/mo | +$1,250 |
| Home Health Aide | $28.00/hr | $26.00/hr | +$2.00 |
| Adult Day Care | $2,100/mo | $1,517/mo | +$583 |
| Homemaker Services | $26.00/hr | $24.00/hr | +$2.00 |
Annual Cost Comparison
Rhode Island Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$129,960/yr
Assisted Living$63,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$59,136/yr
Adult Day Care$25,200/yr
South Dakota Annual Costs
Nursing Home (Private)$99,648/yr
Assisted Living$48,000/yr
Home Health Aide (8hr/day)$54,912/yr
Adult Day Care$18,204/yr
Senior Care Planning Resources
Long-Term Care Insurance Quotes
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Medicaid Planning Services
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Medicare Part A Coverage
Understand what Medicare covers for skilled nursing facility care.
Elder Law Attorneys
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state has cheaper nursing homes: Rhode Island or South Dakota?
South Dakota has lower nursing home costs. Rhode Island averages $10,830/month while South Dakota averages $8,304/month, a difference of $2,526/month.
How do assisted living costs compare between Rhode Island and South Dakota?
Assisted living in Rhode Island costs $5,250/month compared to $4,000/month in South Dakota.
What about home health aide costs?
Home health aides charge $28.00/hour in Rhode Island and $26.00/hour in South Dakota.
Which state has better Medicaid coverage for senior care?
Both states offer Medicaid coverage for nursing home care. Rhode Island: Rhode Island Medicaid covers nursing facilities. Global consumer choice compact waiver available.... South Dakota: South Dakota Medicaid covers nursing facilities. HOPE waiver for community-based alternatives....
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: Genworth Cost of Care Survey