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Long-term care costs have been on the rise for several years, but according to a 2025 survey by Genworth Financial and CareScout, care expense growth slowed last year. In Arkansas, costs trend lower than national averages, and cost growth in 2025 was in line with national movement.

According to the Genworth Financial survey, costs rose 1-5% for most care settings in 2025, while adult day care services recorded a 5% decline in cost. In-home care increased by 3%, in line with inflation; assisted living monthly costs grew by 5%; and nursing home care rose 1-2%, for both private and semiprivate rooms.

“While costs remain high, they are only one part of the equation. Families are also weighing quality, access, timing and how to pay for care over time,” says Samir Shah, CEO of CareScout.

According to the Senior Care Cost Guide, assisted living in Arkansas costs about $4,900 per month, or $59,000 annually. That’s $1,000 less than the national average and $250-$400 less than the median monthly costs in neighboring states Missouri and Tennessee. However, it’s still $100-$200 more expensive than the median assisted living costs in Oklahoma and Louisiana. 

Senior Living reported 3-4% cost increases for private and semiprivate nursing home care in Arkansas in 2025. The median cost for a semiprivate room in Arkansas last year was $7,583, and $8,180 for a private room. 

The average starting rate for an in-home care provider in Arkansas in 2025 was $18.78 per hour and maxed out at $23.40 per hour, according to Care.com. That’s about 20-30% lower than the national average.

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According to Genworth Financial, rising care costs are attributable to inflation, rising workforce pressures and increased demand, as many members of the baby boomer generation ages into long-term care needs. 

“While we have seen some flattening in cost increases this year, the reality is that long-term care remains one of the most significant financial challenges individuals and their families face as they age,” Shah says. “That’s why planning ahead matters.”