Many people consider caregiving a meaningful path—but before stepping into the role, it’s important to understand how it works financially. One of the most frequently asked questions is: how much do private caregivers make per hour?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Pay rates can vary significantly based on where you live, what kind of care you provide, and your level of experience or certification.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median hourly wage for home health and personal care aides in 2023 was around $15.50, but private caregivers working independently often earn more—between $17 and $25 per hour on average.
Those with specialized training, such as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), or who provide overnight or intensive care, can command even higher rates. There’s also growing demand for caregiving services, driven by an aging population and a nationwide shortage of healthcare workers.
Understanding the financial side of caregiving—hourly pay, benefits, and career sustainability—can help you make more informed choices, whether you’re exploring this as a job or hiring a caregiver for a loved one.
What Do Private Caregivers Actually Do?
Before getting into pay, it helps to clarify what private caregivers are responsible for. What determines how much do private caregivers make per hour depend on the tasks they will be asked to do. These roles can vary a lot.
Typical Duties:
- Helping with personal hygiene (bathing, grooming)
- Assisting with mobility or transfers
- Preparing meals
- Managing medications
- Running errands and transportation
- Companionship and emotional support
- Light housekeeping
In some cases, private caregivers also manage basic medical tasks—like checking vital signs or handling medical equipment—but this typically requires extra certification.
How Much Do Private Caregivers Make Per Hour?
Let’s break down what private caregivers are paid based on the latest data available.
| State | Average Hourly Rate (2024) |
| California | $20 – $28 |
| New York | $19 – $26 |
| Florida | $15 – $20 |
| Texas | $14 – $19 |
| Nevada | $17 – $24 |
| National Average | $17.50 – $25.00 |
Some caregivers earn less when they’re starting out or if they’re hired under agencies that take a cut. Private caregivers working independently or those with years of experience can often negotiate higher rates. And caregivers with nursing certifications (like CNAs or LVNs) typically fall at the higher end of the pay range.
What Affects How Much You’ll Make?
Several key factors influence private caregiver pay:
1. Location
Wages are generally higher in urban areas where the cost of living is higher. Caregivers in New York City or Los Angeles usually make more than those in rural areas.
2. Experience & Reputation
The longer you’ve been doing this work, the more you can charge. Returning clients and word-of-mouth referrals also help you stand out.
3. Certifications
Training in CPR, dementia care, or certified nursing assistance (CNA) can increase your hourly rate significantly.
4. Shift Hours
Night shifts, weekend coverage, and live-in positions tend to come with higher rates. Some families offer overtime pay or bonuses for long hours.
5. Type of Care
Basic companionship or light housekeeping jobs pay less than more intensive care for clients with mobility issues, cognitive decline, or chronic illnesses.
Can You Make a Career Out of It?
Yes, and many do. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of home health and personal care aides is projected to grow 22% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growing need means more opportunities to earn competitive wages—especially if you continue training or specialize in certain types of care (like Alzheimer’s, palliative, or post-surgery recovery). According to research from PHI National, caregivers who pursue ongoing training earn up to 20% more than those who don’t.
How Can You Increase Your Pay as a Caregiver?
If you’re already in the field, or thinking of starting, here’s how to make sure you’re maximizing your income.
Build a Solid Reputation: Good reviews and consistent clients can lead to referrals—and higher rates.ve away great talent, but they can also affect your reputation on platforms like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, or even TikTok.
Get Certified: Even basic CPR or CNA training can bump up your rate.
Offer Specialized Services: Support for dementia or post-op recovery often commands more.
Work Independently: Avoid agency cuts by finding clients directly (note: you’ll handle your own taxes and insurance).
Expand Your Availability: Being open to overnight or weekend shifts can lead to higher pay.
Common Questions About Caregiving as a Career
1. Is there a difference between a caregiver and a home health aide?
Yes. A caregiver often focuses on non-medical support such as companionship, personal hygiene, and daily living activities. A home health aide, on the other hand, usually has formal training and may assist with basic medical tasks under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
2. Do private caregivers get paid overtime?
If a private caregiver is hired as a household employee (not as an independent contractor), they may be eligible for overtime under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Overtime laws vary by state, and it’s important for caregivers to clarify employment status and pay terms upfront.
3. Can private caregivers set their own rates?
Independent caregivers typically can set their own rates, though they should stay competitive with local averages. It’s common to adjust pricing based on service complexity, time commitment, and travel distance.
4. Are private caregivers required to have a license?
Licensing depends on the state. In most cases, caregivers providing non-medical support don’t need a license, but some states require registration or background checks. For tasks involving medical care, certifications like CNA or LPN are often required.
5. How do families typically find and hire private caregivers?
Families often use online platforms (e.g., Care.com, A Place for Mom), personal referrals, or local caregiving agencies. Services like TBest Services offer vetted caregiver recruitment for reliable and professional matching.
Conclusion
So, how much do private caregivers make per hour? The average falls between $17 to $25, but that number only tells part of the story.
If you’re committed, certified, and strategic about the clients you work with, you can earn well above that—and build a long-term career in a growing field.
If you’re considering becoming a caregiver or looking to hire one, TBest Services can help. We connect experienced caregivers with families who need reliable, compassionate care.
