Texas Long‑Term Care Costs in 2026: What Families Need to Know

Blaine Webb

Quick Summary: In 2026, long-term care costs across Texas continue to rise. The average cost of in‑home care now ranges from $4,800–$6,200 per month, assisted living averages $4,500–$6,000 per month, and nursing home care typically runs $7,800–$9,500 per month. Prices are highest in major metros such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City, with Montgomery, TX remaining slightly below big‑city averages but still trending upward.

Why Long‑Term Care Costs Continue Increasing

Across Texas and surrounding markets like Oklahoma City, families are seeing noticeable increases in long‑term care expenses each year. Several factors are driving these ongoing cost hikes:

  • Labor shortages: Care facilities and home health agencies are struggling to hire and retain qualified nursing staff. Higher wages and overtime pay are directly increasing monthly rates.
  • Healthcare inflation: The broader rise in medical expenses—medications, equipment, and specialized care—has pushed senior care costs higher.
  • Growing demand: Texas has one of the fastest‑growing retiree populations in the country. More demand means facilities can raise rates while still maintaining full occupancy.
  • Regulatory and compliance updates: Stricter reporting and safety requirements add operational costs, especially in nursing homes and memory care units.

2026 Cost Breakdown by Care Type

While rates vary by city, here are typical ranges we’re seeing across Montgomery, Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City:

In‑Home Care (Home Health & Personal Care)

  • $25–$33 per hour for personal care and homemaker services
  • $4,800–$6,200 per month for 20–30 hours per week of care
  • Highest rates: Austin and Dallas
  • Most affordable: Montgomery and San Antonio

Assisted Living Facilities

  • $4,500–$6,000 per month for standard assisted living
  • $6,500–$8,000 per month for memory care
  • Highest rates: Houston and Austin
  • Steady increases: San Antonio and Oklahoma City

Nursing Homes

  • $7,800–$9,500 per month for a semi‑private room
  • $9,500–$12,000 per month for a private room
  • Rate drivers: skilled nursing shortages and rehab demand

How Families Can Prepare Financially

You don’t have to shoulder these rising costs alone. Families across Texas are turning to structured planning tools to protect retirement savings and maintain control over care choices.

1. Explore Long‑Term Care Insurance Options

Independent long‑term care specialists—like Innovative LTC based in Montgomery, TX—help families compare plans across traditional and hybrid carriers. These policies can cover home care, assisted living, and nursing home expenses while helping protect assets.

Learn more about available strategies: Long-Term Care Solutions

2. Consider Traditional Long‑Term Care Insurance

Traditional long-term care policies remain one of the most cost‑effective ways to secure high daily benefits, inflation protection, and robust coverage across Texas. Many clients in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City still find these policies to be the best value.

Read more here: Traditional Long-Term Care

3. Use tax‑advantaged planning strategies

  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
  • Tax‑deductible premiums for certain policy types
  • Hybrid policies offering guaranteed premiums and cash value

4. Start planning earlier than you think

By beginning your long‑term care planning in your 50s or early 60s, you can lock in lower premiums, qualify for broader coverage, and protect more of your retirement income.

Next Step: Talk With a Long‑Term Care Specialist

At Innovative LTC, we help families across Montgomery, Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City understand their long‑term care options—without pressure or product quotas. If you're exploring long‑term care insurance or simply want clarity around 2026 costs, we’re here to help.

Schedule a consultation today and create a plan that protects your family and your retirement.