Let's address what everyone wants to know but few agencies discuss transparently: what do home healthcare jobs really pay? Beyond hourly wages, what benefits exist? How does compensation vary by certification level? At Encore Care, we believe transparency builds trust, so here's our complete 2025 compensation breakdown.

Industry-wide compensation reality

Nationally, home health aides average $14-17 hourly, with significant regional variation. Ohio averages $15.50, while Pennsylvania reaches $16.75. These figures seem reasonable until you factor in reality: unpaid travel between clients, no guaranteed hours, and minimal benefits. Many caregivers work multiple agencies to achieve full-time hours, juggling schedules without stability.

Traditional agencies structure compensation to their advantage. They bill insurance $35-45 hourly but pay caregivers $14-16. Split shifts mean working 6 AM-9 AM, then 5 PM-8 PM, destroying work-life balance while earning just six hours' pay. No wonder caregivers flee to retail or restaurants offering predictable schedules and comparable wages.

The Encore Care compensation revolution

We start higher—$18-24 hourly based on experience and certifications—but that's just the beginning. Our tokenization program adds an entirely new compensation layer. Every hour worked generates EHX tokens backed by real estate. These aren't vague promises but tangible assets growing in value.

Here's real math: A full-time caregiver earning $20 hourly makes $41,600 annually in wages. After three years, accumulated tokens typically value $15,600. By year five, those tokens generate approximately $300 monthly passive income—essentially a 17% raise that continues growing. No traditional agency offers anything comparable.

Comprehensive benefits that matter

Health insurance shouldn't be a luxury for healthcare workers, yet many agencies offer plans with $500 monthly premiums and $8,000 deductibles. Our comprehensive health insurance costs caregivers just $75 monthly for individual coverage, with $2,000 deductibles and $20 copays. Dental and vision included.

Paid time off accrues from day one—unusual in our industry. After six months, you've earned a week's vacation. By year two, two weeks. We also provide three personal days and five sick days annually. Compare this to agencies offering no PTO until year two, then just five days.

Transportation support makes a massive difference. We reimburse 65 cents per mile for client visits—the IRS maximum rate. Need a car? Our partnership with local credit unions provides auto loans at preferred rates, regardless of credit history. We've even negotiated fleet discounts with dealerships for reliable used vehicles.

Certification bonuses and advancement

Every certification increases earning potential. Dementia care specialists earn $2 more hourly. Medication management adds another $1.50. Pursue your LPN while working? We cover tuition and increase your wage $5 hourly upon completion. RN degree? Full tuition support plus $10 hourly increase.

Traditional agencies might offer 50-cent raises for additional certifications. We recognize that specialized knowledge deserves substantial compensation. When you invest in growing professionally, we invest in you financially.

Real caregivers, real numbers

Jennifer, home health aide, two years with Encore Care:

• Hourly wage: $21

• Annual salary: $43,680

• Current token value: $8,500

• Health insurance cost: $75/month

• Monthly mileage reimbursement: $420

• Total compensation value: $57,000+

Marcus, dementia care specialist, four years:

• Hourly wage: $24

• Annual salary: $49,920

• Current token value: $19,000

• Projected token income: $250/month

• Certification bonuses earned: $3,000

• Total compensation value: $68,000+

The bottom line

When evaluating home healthcare positions, look beyond hourly wages. Calculate true compensation including benefits, mileage, advancement opportunities, and long-term wealth building. Traditional agencies hoping you'll focus solely on hourly rates don't want these comparisons.

At Encore Care, we're transparent because our total compensation package stands up to scrutiny. We're not just offering jobs—we're providing careers with genuine paths to financial security.