Economic Value of Family Caregiving in North Dakota Reaches $1.27B

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According to a new AARP report, North Dakota's family caregivers now provide $1.27 billion worth of labor each year, with most of this work being unpaid. The report highlights how family caregivers form the backbone of the state's long-term care system, enabling millions of older adults to live independently at home and avoid more expensive institutional care.

Why it matters

Without family caregivers, many more North Dakotans would rely on expensive institutional care, driving significantly higher costs for taxpayers and public programs. The report emphasizes that family caregiving is a major economic force that fills critical gaps in the healthcare system.

The details

The AARP report, titled 'Valuing the Invaluable 2026', found that 82,000 North Dakota residents are caregivers of adults, providing 58 million hours of care annually. This unpaid work would be valued at $1.27 billion per year if paid in the marketplace, based on a value of $21.97 per hour. Across the U.S., the estimated value of caregiving ranges from $14.12 per hour in Louisiana to $27.05 per hour in Washington, reflecting regional differences in wages and the cost of care.

• The AARP report was published on March 26, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

AARP continues federal and state advocacy to save caregivers money, time, and get them the support they deserve. In North Dakota, they have encouraged the U.S. Congressional delegation to support the Credit For Caring Act, a tax credit of up to $5,000 for working family caregivers. AARP also encourages individuals to explore their eligibility for the North Dakota Family Member Care Tax Credit.