Best Nursing Homes in North Carolina

224 of 832 nursing homes (27%) meet our strict criteria. The national average is 31%.

#26 of 50 states

224 recommended · 444 avoid · 199 cities · data

Recommended Statewide

224

Facilities graded B or better with zero fines

224 recommended 42 caution 444 avoid

National Rank

#26

Average

Total Facilities

832

across 199 cities

Facilities to Avoid

444

396 Grade F

$38,564,070 in combined fines

Best City

Chapel Hill

75% recommended

State Average

2.8

CMS star rating

North Carolina vs National Average

Comparison of nursing home metrics between North Carolina and national averages
Metric North Carolina National Verdict
% Recommended 27% 31% ✗ Worse
Average CMS Stars 2.8 3.0 ✗ Worse
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 North Carolina Reality

When evaluating nursing home care in North Carolina, the state holds a middle-ground position, ranking 26th out of 50 states. With only 27% of its facilities recommended, which is notably lower than the national average of 31%, families must approach their search with a discerning eye. This ranking indicates that while there are quality options available, many facilities fall short of the standards that families would expect for their loved ones' care, making thorough research essential.

Among the positive highlights, Chapel Hill stands out as the best city for nursing home care, with an impressive 75% of its facilities receiving recommendations. One notable facility, the Penn Nursing Center in Reidsville, boasts a high Trust Score of 95, indicating a strong reputation for quality care. However, families should remain cautious, as there are significant issues within the state, including 444 facilities to avoid and 396 rated with an F grade. The total fines imposed amount to a staggering $38,564,070, underscoring systemic problems that can affect the quality of care provided.

For families navigating the complex landscape of nursing home care in North Carolina, several key factors should be prioritized. It's essential to check the Trust Scores and CMS star ratings of facilities, as these metrics can provide insight into the quality of care offered. Additionally, families should investigate any history of fines against a facility, as this can be indicative of underlying issues. By focusing on these elements, families can better ensure they choose a nursing home that meets their expectations for safety and quality of care.

Quality Trend

Is North Carolina improving or declining?

2024
30%
2025
28%
2026
27%

North Carolina quality has remained stable.

Cities Ranked by Quality

Click any city to see detailed facility recommendations

Statewide Warning Patterns

Common issues found across North Carolina nursing homes

High Number of Facilities with F Grades

In North Carolina, 396 out of 832 nursing homes have received F grades, indicating significant quality and safety issues.

Facilities to Avoid

There are 444 facilities in North Carolina recommended to avoid, indicating a significant portion of homes may not meet quality care standards.

Substantial Total Fines

With total fines amounting to $38,564,070, North Carolina nursing homes face notable financial penalties, reflecting ongoing regulatory challenges.

Top 10 Nursing Homes in North Carolina

Highest-scoring facilities statewide

Care Type Availability

Where to find specific care in North Carolina

Memory Care

30 facilities

Best options in Chapel Hill

Short-Term Rehab

80 facilities

Highest success in Chapel Hill

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 North Carolina compare to neighboring states?

North Carolina ranks 26th nationally for nursing home care, which is relatively mid-tier compared to its neighboring states. For instance, Virginia ranks higher at 18th, while South Carolina is slightly lower at 30th, indicating a mixed landscape of nursing home quality in the region.

What percentage of nursing homes in North Carolina meet quality criteria?

In North Carolina, approximately 27% of nursing homes meet quality criteria, which is below the national average of 31%. This suggests that while some facilities provide commendable care, there is room for improvement across the state.

Which city in North Carolina offers the best nursing home care?

Chapel Hill is recognized as the best city in North Carolina for nursing home care, known for its high standards and quality facilities. The presence of reputable healthcare institutions in the area contributes to the overall better care options for residents.

What is the cost of a private room in a North Carolina nursing home?

The average cost of a private room in a North Carolina nursing home is approximately $8,000 per month. This figure can vary based on location and specific facilities, but it provides a general benchmark for prospective residents and their families.