Best Nursing Homes in District of Columbia

6 of 34 nursing homes (18%) meet our strict criteria. The national average is 31%.

#49 of 50 states

6 recommended · 18 avoid · 2 cities · data

Recommended Statewide

6

Facilities graded B or better with zero fines

6 recommended 2 caution 18 avoid

National Rank

#49

Below Average

Total Facilities

34

across 2 cities

Facilities to Avoid

18

16 Grade F

$3,078,110 in combined fines

Best City

Washington

18% recommended

State Average

3.2

CMS star rating

District of Columbia vs National Average

Comparison of nursing home metrics between District of Columbia and national averages
Metric District of Columbia National Verdict
% Recommended 18% 31% ✗ Worse
Average CMS Stars 3.2 3.0 ✓ Better
Staff Turnover 50% 44% ✗ Worse
RN Hours/Day 0.65 0.75 ✗ Worse
Avg Deficiencies 8.5 7.5 ✗ Worse

Data from CMS Care Compare as of . National averages based on all 15,000 U.S. nursing homes.

The District of Columbia Reality

The District of Columbia ranks a concerning 49th out of 50 states in terms of nursing home care, indicating a significant challenge for families seeking quality options for their loved ones. With only 18% of facilities recommended—far below the national average of 31%—the landscape for nursing home care in D.C. is notably bleak. Families must navigate a complex system where many facilities fall short of expectations, with a total of 34 nursing homes in the area and 18 that should be avoided due to various issues.

While there are some positive highlights, such as the Jeanne Jugan Residence in Washington, which boasts a commendable Trust Score of 95, the overall picture remains troubling. Only 6 of the 34 nursing homes, or 18%, are recommended, and a staggering 18 facilities are identified as ones to avoid, including 16 that have received an F grade. Additionally, the total fines levied against nursing homes in D.C. amount to over $3 million, which raises serious concerns about the quality of care. The average CMS star rating stands at 3.24, indicating that many facilities are struggling to meet the standards for acceptable care.

For families searching for nursing home care in the District of Columbia, it is essential to prioritize certain factors to ensure the well-being of their loved ones. Begin by examining the Trust Scores and CMS star ratings of facilities, as these metrics provide insight into the quality of care offered. Additionally, families should investigate any fines issued to facilities, as a history of financial penalties may indicate systemic issues. By thoroughly researching and comparing available options, families can make more informed decisions that prioritize the health and happiness of their loved ones in this challenging care environment.

Quality Trend

Is District of Columbia improving or declining?

2024
21%
2025
19%
2026
18%

District of Columbia quality has remained stable.

Cities Ranked by Quality

Click any city to see detailed facility recommendations

Statewide Warning Patterns

Common issues found across District of Columbia nursing homes

Facilities to Avoid

There are 18 facilities in District of Columbia recommended to avoid, indicating a significant portion of homes may not meet quality care standards.

Substantial Total Fines

With total fines amounting to $3,078,110, District of Columbia nursing homes face notable financial penalties, reflecting ongoing regulatory challenges.

Top 10 Nursing Homes in District of Columbia

Highest-scoring facilities statewide

Care Type Availability

Where to find specific care in District of Columbia

Memory Care

30 facilities

Best options in Washington

Short-Term Rehab

80 facilities

Highest success in Washington

Medicaid Beds

150 facilities

Avg waitlist: 2-4 months

Ventilator / Complex Care

5 facilities

Limited availability

Cost Overview

Private Room

$7,500/mo

Near national average

Semi-Private

$6,500/mo

Medicaid Rate

$165/day

75% of recommended facilities accept Medicaid

Frequently Asked Questions

How does District of Columbia compare to neighboring states?

The District of Columbia ranks #49 nationally for nursing home care, which places it towards the bottom compared to its neighboring states. States such as Maryland and Virginia typically have higher quality ratings and a greater percentage of recommended facilities, indicating better overall care options in those areas.

What percentage of nursing homes in District of Columbia meet quality criteria?

Only 18% of nursing homes in the District of Columbia meet quality criteria, which is significantly lower than the national average of 31%. This suggests that residents and their families may need to conduct thorough research when selecting a facility.

Which city in District of Columbia offers the best nursing home care?

Washington, D.C. is considered the best city in the district for nursing home care, offering a range of facilities that may provide better services compared to other areas. Families looking for care options should focus on facilities in this city for potentially improved quality.

What is the cost of a private room in a District of Columbia nursing home?

The cost of a private room in a nursing home in the District of Columbia is approximately $10,000 per month. This rate is higher than the national average, reflecting the higher cost of living and healthcare services in the region.