Germany nursing home costs rise to average 3,364 euros monthly

Out-of-pocket costs for long-term nursing home residents in Germany have reached significant new highs. According to data from the Verband der Ersatzkassen (vdek) as of July 1, 2026, the average monthly personal contribution for the first year of residency is 3,364 euros, an increase of 256 euros compared to the previous year.

These costs comprise the uniform institutional contribution (EEE) for nursing care and staff training, investment costs for the facility, and expenses for food and accommodation. Regional disparities are substantial: residents in Bremen face the highest average costs at 3,761 euros per month, while those in Sachsen-Anhalt pay the lowest at 2,891 euros.

The rising financial burden is leading to severe social consequences. In one documented case in Neu-Ulm, a 77-year-old senior with a care level of 3 became homeless after accumulating over 30,000 euros in unpaid nursing home fees.

Political responses vary. Saarland Prime Minister Anke Rehlinger has proposed capping personal contributions at 1,500 euros per month, a move supported by several patient advocacy groups. However, critics warn that such a cap could result in billions of euros in additional costs, while the GKV-Spitzenverband has highlighted the precarious financial situation facing care insurance funds.