Entering rehab can be a difficult step into recovery, and it’s made harder by the cost of some rehab facilities. Here are the factors that determine cost.

Entering drug rehab can be a difficult step into recovery, and it’s made harder by the cost of some rehab facilities. Several different factors determine the cost of rehab, including the type of rehab facility and treatment program. Residential versus outpatient and long- versus short-term treatment are two such factors.

Long- and Short-Term Residential Rehab

Residential treatment is generally in a non-hospital setting, although there are still medical personnel on staff.

These facilities can include amenities and resources like:

  • 24-hour care
  • Personal and vocational training
  • Holistic therapies and recreational activities
  • Programs can be modified to help those with special needs (i.e., severe mental illness or those in the criminal justice system).

Long-term treatment is generally 6 to 12 months, while short-term treatment is typically 3 to 6 weeks.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is often used for those with jobs or a strong support system, and group counseling is a major component. This is commonly used as a “step-down” approach from residential treatment to help prevent relapse.

Outpatient facilities offer group counseling, treatment for co-occurring disorders, and programs to meet individual needs. However, it may not offer the full-scale recovery planning residential facilities offer.

The Cost of Drug Use

Yes, rehab can be expensive, but is it more than an individual would pay over the course of their addiction? Very likely not. Factor in the “cost” of potential incarceration, and it’s not as prohibitive. 

The estimated annual cost of addiction varies depending on the substance, but it can easily reach thousands of dollars per year. This does not include co-occurring addictions. The cost can far exceed the fees linked to rehab. People report spending tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars on drugs in just a few years. These numbers would likely be higher over time, due to the body’s increasing tolerance.

By choosing to stop putting money towards your addiction, and instead towards creating a new, healthier you, you’ll be saving your life, which is certainly worth the cost.

The Cost of Rehab

Rehab can have a significant cost, especially for long-term residential programs and luxury centers. Publicly funded centers can range from $1,500 to specialized programs reaching $8,000 or higher. Private facilities can be more, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $60,000.

However, your insurance can cover some or all of your substance abuse treatment, depending on the facility and your insurance plan. Many facilities also work with clients to develop payment plans that help make treatment affordable for everyone in need. 

Insurance Coverage for Rehab

Accepted insurance plans can vary by rehab facility. The Recovery Village accepts most major insurance plans, and you can verify your insurance using our verification tool. We work with you and your insurance carrier, but always recommend you contact your insurance provider to discuss your specific plan’s coverage with specific questions

Rehab is certainly an investment, but it’s an investment for your future self to create a wholesome and rewarding life. Read more rehab coverage and insurance FAQs, then contact us to discuss treatment and payment options that can work for you.

Related Topic: Rehab without insurance

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Editor – Melissa Carmona
Melissa Carmona puts years of writing and editing experience to work helping people understand substance abuse, addiction and mental health disorders. Read more
Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.