Long-term care in BC
Find long-term care homes with a clearer next step.
Compare publicly funded and private long-term care options, understand waitlists and costs, and use the Navigator when you are not sure what to do next.
What CareCompare helps you do
- See facility cards with funding, ownership, ratings, beds, contact options, and details.
- Compare shortlisted homes side by side before you call or tour.
- Understand Health Authority access, waitlist context, and bridge support while waiting.
Free, independent, no referral fees.
Confused by the different types of senior housing? Read our plain-English guide to retirement home types in BC →
Long-Term Care Costs in BC
| Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Publicly funded (minimum) | $1,508/mo |
| Publicly funded (maximum) | $4,143/mo |
| Private long-term care | $6,000–$12,000+/mo |
How publicly funded rates work
You usually pay up to 80% of your after-tax income, within the $1,508–$4,143 range. Every resident keeps at least $325/month for personal needs like clothing, toiletries, and phone. Minimums, maximums, and hardship rules apply.
Understanding Long-Term Care in BC
Long-term care in BC — sometimes called nursing homes or residential care — provides 24/7 nursing for seniors with complex medical needs. Registered nurses are always on-site. Residents receive meals, personal care, medical support, and recreational activities.
The assessment process: To access publicly funded long-term care, your loved one needs a clinical assessment through the Health Authority's Home & Community Care office. A Clinical Care Coordinator evaluates medical needs, daily functioning, and care requirements.
Costs: Publicly funded long-term care is income-tested. Residents usually pay up to 80% of their after-tax income, with a 2026 minimum of $1,508/month and a maximum of $4,143/month. Every resident keeps at least $325/month for personal needs. Private long-term care ranges from $6,000 to $12,000+/month.
The waitlist reality: The average wait for a publicly funded bed is approximately 287 days, but this varies significantly by region and care level. You can choose up to 3 preferred facilities or accept the first available bed.
When a bed becomes available: The Health Authority contacts you with a 24–48 hour decision window. If you decline, you may lose your spot on that facility's waitlist but remain on others. Many families use private home care as bridge support while waiting.
First available vs. preferred: Choosing “first available” typically means a shorter wait, but you may not get your top choice. It's a difficult decision that many families face — and there's no wrong answer.
Find private long-term care in your area.
Not all long-term care requires the average 287-day publicly funded waitlist. See your options in ~60 seconds.
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Related Guides
Moving Into Long-Term Care
What to bring, what to expect, and how to prepare
While You Wait
What to do during the care home waitlist
Equipment and Services Guide
Medical equipment, mobility aids, and home modifications