U.S. Hospice Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Routine Home Care, Continuous Home Care, Inpatient Respite Care), By Location (Hospice Center, Home Hospice Care), By Diagnosis (Dementia, Cancer),- Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

U.S. Hospice Market Size and Trends

The U.S. hospice market size was exhibited at USD 30.25 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit around USD 47.52 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.62% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034.

U.S. Hospice Market Key Takeaways:

• Based on type, Routine Homecare (RHC) segment dominated the market in 2024 and accounted for the largest revenue share of 92.98%.
• The inpatient respite care segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
• The hospice center segment held the largest market share of 86.32% in 2024, owing to the various benefits offered by these facilities.
• The skilled nursing facility segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.
• The dementia segment held the largest market share of 26.0% in 2024
• The cancer segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.

Report Scope of U.S. Hospice Market

The growth of the market is attributed to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases among rapidly growing geriatric populations. In addition, increasing need for quality healthcare services at home along with growing Medicare reimbursement for hospice care is expected to further drive the market growth over the forecast period.

The geriatric population is predicted to grow considerably in the future as life expectancy increases. However, this growing population leads to a higher prevalence of chronic conditions such as cancer, dementia, and cardiovascular diseases. These conditions often necessitate specialized end-of-life care, which is effectively provided by hospice services. For instance, according to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), in 2021, about 47.8% of Medicare hospice patients were aged 75 and above. However, the 85 and older age category has climbed the highest since 60.8%.

The number of hospice centers in the U.S. has been steadily increasing over the years. According to the Biennial Overview of Post-acute and Long-term Care in the United States, as of 2020, there were approximately 5,200 hospice care agencies operating in the U.S. In 2022, this number amplified to 5,899 Medicare-certified hospice agencies. This growth is largely attributed to the aging population and an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, which drive demand for hospice services. Moreover, the market is experiencing a significant shift towards home-based care, driven by technological advancements and evolving patient preferences. Remote patient monitoring tools and telehealth services enable healthcare providers to deliver effective care without requiring patients to leave their homes. These innovations improve care quality and reduce hospital stay costs, making home-based hospice care an attractive option for many families.

Furthermore, the growing awareness of end-of-life care options, particularly hospice care, has significantly influenced its utilization in the U.S. This trend is driven by several factors, including public perceptions, healthcare system dynamics, and the evolving reform for hospice care. As awareness of hospice benefits increases, healthcare providers are more expected to recommend hospice services to patients and families. Organizations such as the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) are organizing awareness campaigns that focus on educating both patients and healthcare providers. For instance, the Palliative Care Awareness Campaign initiative provides resources to empower patients and caregivers, emphasizing the importance of integrating palliative care early in treatment rather than associating it solely with end-of-life scenarios. Thus, as awareness continues to increase, it is expected that hospice care will become an even more integral part of end-of-life planning for many Americans.

U.S. Hospice Market By Type Insights

Based on type, Routine Homecare (RHC) segment dominated the market in 2024 and accounted for the largest revenue share of 92.98%. This growth can be attributed to various factors, such as favorable reimbursement policies and increased comfort. RHC is paid under Medicare for each day till the patient is under the hospice program. Furthermore, it involves regular visits by registered nurses, hospice physicians, and hospice aids to patient locations. It provides advantages of companionship, family involvement, constant attention, and more.

The inpatient respite care segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2034. Inpatient Respite Care (IRC) intends to provide temporary or short-term relief to primary care providers. The patient temporarily stays in inpatient hospice centers, such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes, to give primary caregivers a break. This enables primary caregivers to reduce burnout and work efficiently.  Recent initiatives in inpatient respite care within U.S. hospice settings are focused on enhancing support for caregivers and addressing the growing demand for specialized care, particularly for patients with dementia and other complex needs.

U.S. Hospice Market By Location Insights

The hospice center segment held the largest market share of 86.32% in 2024, owing to the various benefits offered by these facilities. These centers prevent the need for hospitalization and offer more balanced & controlled care settings. In addition, growing awareness regarding various advantages, such as 24/7 availability of professional care and emotional support from family members is projected to propel market growth.  Many service providers offer hospice inpatient facilities. Hospice centers can be helpful to patients who need round-the-clock care or do not have a caregiver. Rising demand for respite care in order to give personal space to the primary caregiver is contributing to segment growth.

The skilled nursing facility segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. High-quality nursing services provided in skilled nursing facilities and increasing occupancy are among factors expected to drive segment growth. Apart from hospitals, skilled nursing facilities have the capability to offer comprehensive care. A rising geriatric population and improving access to skilled nursing facilities owing to supportive reimbursement framework are some of the factors anticipated to drive market growth in the coming years. 

U.S. Hospice Market By Diagnosis Insights

The dementia segment held the largest market share of 26.0% in 2024, owing to the dependency and disability among the elderly, with significant physical and psychological effects on individuals, their families, and caregivers. The rising prevalence of dementia, coupled with an aging population, is driving growth in this segment. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s disease, a figure expected to increase to approximately 13 million by 2050. In 2021, Alzheimer’s disease ranked as the fifth-leading cause of death among individuals aged 65 and older. In addition, health and long-term care costs for dementia patients are projected to reach USD 360 billion in 2024, escalating to nearly USD 1 trillion by 2050.

The cancer segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rising number of cancer diagnoses and the increasing need for palliative care services. Hospice care plays a vital role in managing cancer symptoms, alleviating treatment-related side effects, and ensuring comfort and dignity for patients during the final stages of life. In 2024, the National Cancer Institute estimates that 2,001,140 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the U.S., with 611,720 deaths expected. Prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are projected to account for 48% of all new cancer cases in men, while breast, lung, and colorectal cancers will make up 51% of diagnoses among women.

Some of the prominent players in the U.S. hospice market include:

• Chemed Corporation (VITAS Healthcare)
• LHC Group, Inc. (UnitedHealth Group)
• Amedisys
• Gentiva
• Brookdale Senior Living, Inc
• Crossroads Hospice (Agape Care Group)
• Seasons Hospice
• Oklahoma Palliative & Hospice Care
• Compassus
• Chapters Health System

U.S. Hospice Market Recent Developments

• In October 2024, Compassus and Providence announced a joint venture to enhance home-based care services, including hospice, palliative care, home health, and private-duty caregiving.
  
  
• In October 2024, Chemed Corporation (VITAS Healthcare) launched premier hospice services in Bakersfield and Fresno. Local interdisciplinary teams now provide clinical and spiritual care for seriously ill patients in homes, nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and inpatient settings.
  
  
• In September 2024, South Carolina-based Agape Care Group acquired multiple Crossroads Hospice locations across Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Georgia. Agape, backed by private equity firm Ridgemont Equity Partners, completed the transaction for an undisclosed amount. Crossroads retained its locations in Tennessee, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
  
  
• In May 2024, Bon Secours Mercy Health and Compassus announced they have signed terms to form a joint venture partnership for Bon Secours Mercy Health Hospice.
  
  
• In April 2024, Chemed Corporation (VITAS Healthcare) acquired all hospice operations and an assisted living facility from Covenant Health and Community Services, Inc.
  
  
• In October 2023, VITAS Healthcare expanded its inpatient hospice care at Broward Health Medical Center. The new VITAS hospice wing is expected to care for around 550 patients annually.

U.S. Hospice Market By Segments Covered in the Report

This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2034. For this study, Nova one advisor, Inc. has segmented the U.S. hospice market

By Type

• Routine Home Care
• Continuous Home Care
• Inpatient Respite Care
• General Inpatient Care

By Location

• Hospice Center
• Hospital
• Home Hospice Care
• Skilled Nursing Facility

By Diagnosis

• Dementia
• Circulatory/Heart
• Cancer
• Respiratory
• Stroke
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Others