Seeking addiction treatment is a brave decision, but one common concern is: How much does rehab cost? The price of rehab can feel overwhelming, and worry about finances often stops people from getting help. In reality, rehab costs vary widely. Understanding the range of costs and what financial support is available can help you make an informed plan for recovery.

At Good Landing Recovery, a leading faith-based rehab center, we encounter many individuals and families anxious about the expense. It’s important to know that while rehab is an investment, there are many options to make it affordable. Below, we break down typical rehab costs and the financial resources that can help cover these expenses.

How Much Does Rehab Cost?

Rehab (drug and alcohol rehabilitation) can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the program. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, the average cost of a rehab program is around $13,475 per person. However, your actual expenses will depend on the type of treatment and length of stay. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for different rehab services:

  • Detox Programs (typically ~7 days): Basic medical detox can cost about $1,000 to $1,500 for outpatient detoxification. More intensive inpatient detox (with 24-hour medical supervision) may cost more, especially if it includes medications.
  • Outpatient Rehab (multiple weeks/months): An outpatient program (where patients attend therapy during the day and go home at night) might cost roughly $5,000 to $10,000 for a 3-month program. The exact figure depends on how often you attend sessions each week and the program’s duration.
  • Inpatient/Residential Rehab (30+ days): Inpatient rehab, where you live at the facility full-time, is more expensive. A 30-day residential program can range from around $6,000 up to $20,000 at well-known facilities. Longer stays (60-90 days) will naturally cost more – often $12,000 to $60,000 in total for extended treatment.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment: Some treatment plans include medications for addiction (for example, methadone or buprenorphine for opioid dependency). These medications have their own costs. For instance, a year’s supply of methadone maintenance therapy for heroin addiction runs about $4,700. Such medication expenses can add to the overall cost of rehab if needed in your recovery plan.

Keep in mind that these figures are general estimates. The range is huge because of factors like program intensity, location, and amenities. A no-frills community center will charge far less than a luxury rehab resort with private rooms and spa services. On the low end, there are even some free or state-funded programs (more on those below) that cost nothing to attend. On the high end, premium facilities with resort-like settings can cost well above average – some long-term luxury programs charge $50,000 to $80,000 for treatment.

The good news is that no matter your budget, options exist. You should never feel that rehab is out of reach financially. Next, we’ll explore the various financial options that can help cover the cost of rehab.

Financial Options for Rehab Treatment

Paying for rehab might seem daunting, but help is available. Many rehab facilities offer assistance or can guide you toward resources that ease the financial burden. Here are some financial options to consider that can make rehab more affordable:

• Health Insurance Coverage: If you have private health insurance, it will likely cover a significant portion of addiction treatment. Most insurance plans cover at least some of the cost of rehab because substance abuse treatment is considered an essential health benefit. Thanks to laws like the Affordable Care Act, insurers must treat mental health and addiction services similarly to other medical services (parity laws). This means your insurance could pay for detox, therapy, medication, and even inpatient rehab, up to the limits of your policy. Always check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage (what facilities are in-network, deductible, co-pay amounts, etc.). Utilizing your insurance can drastically reduce out-of-pocket costs for rehab.

• Medicaid and Medicare (Public Insurance): Government-funded health insurance programs can also cover rehab in many cases. Medicaid, which is insurance for low-income individuals, is required to cover addiction treatment and behavioral health services under federal guidelines. In fact, most rehab facilities accept Medicaid to some degree, though coverage might not be 100% and certain programs may have limits on what Medicaid will pay. Medicare, the federal insurance for seniors and people with certain disabilities, also covers substance abuse treatment (such as outpatient counseling, inpatient hospitalization for detox, and sometimes rehab programs) when deemed medically necessary. Veterans can often access addiction treatment through the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system as well. These public programs are invaluable if you qualify: for example, Good Landing Recovery accepts Medicaid and will work with you to clarify how much it covers and what costs might remain . If you rely on Medicaid or Medicare, be sure to verify which rehab services are included and if the rehab facility accepts that insurance.

• Free and State-Funded Programs: Across the country, there are rehabs funded by state governments, nonprofits, or charities that offer low-cost or free treatment for those who cannot afford to pay. In fact, approximately 443 facilities in the U.S. offer free treatment for all rehab patients . State-funded rehab programs often have eligibility requirements (such as proof of state residency, income limits, or lack of insurance) and sometimes waiting lists due to high demand. Nonprofit organizations and faith-based groups may also run scholarship-based or donation-supported rehab beds. While these programs might not have the luxury perks, they can provide the critical care needed for recovery at little to no cost. It’s worthwhile to research options in your state or contact your state’s substance abuse agency to find out about any government-funded rehab opportunities .

• Grants and Rehab Scholarships: Some individuals can obtain grants or scholarships specifically for addiction treatment. Organizations like SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) offer grant programs that fund treatment for those in need. Some rehab centers or foundations have scholarship funds you can apply for, which cover part or all of someone’s rehab stay. These are typically need-based and may require an application or proof of financial hardship, but they are essentially free money toward treatment if awarded. Don’t hesitate to ask a rehab facility if they know of any scholarship opportunities or sliding-scale arrangements. Often, admissions counselors can connect you with resources. Every year, many people use grants or charity funding to get help—the support is out there.

• Payment Plans and Financing: Lastly, most treatment centers are willing to work out payment arrangements. Financing options can break the cost of rehab into manageable monthly payments, so you don’t have to pay everything upfront. Centers might offer in-house payment plans or connect you with third-party medical credit services or loans. Additionally, some facilities have sliding scale fees, adjusting the cost based on your income. Don’t be afraid to discuss your financial situation with a rehab’s billing department. In many cases, rehab facilities will negotiate costs or offer discounts if that makes the difference in a person getting help. Remember, rehab providers ultimately want you to get treatment, and they often “offer financial assistance of some sort, from charitable aid to financing options” . For example, Good Landing Recovery works with each client to find a plan that fits their budget and needs, exploring insurance, payment plans, or other aid available . The goal is to ensure finances aren’t a barrier to getting well.

Don't Let Cost Stop You from Getting Help

While rehab can be costly, it’s crucial to view it as an investment in your health and future. In fact, any money spent on rehab is money you won’t be spending on drugs or alcohol in the future, as one Good Landing Recovery counselor notes – it’s a trade-off that is well worth it . Beyond the dollars, successful treatment leads to a healthier, more productive life, which can save immeasurable personal and financial costs down the line (medical bills, legal troubles, lost income, etc.).

The bottom line: Don’t let the price of rehab deter you from seeking help. There are many resources and creative solutions to fund treatment, and providers like Good Landing Recovery are committed to helping you navigate these options. With insurance coverage, financial aid, or flexible payment plans, addiction recovery is within reach for you or your loved one. If you’re ready to take that step, reach out to a reputable rehab center and discuss your situation. Good Landing Recovery, for instance, will happily walk you through insurance queries or financing arrangements to ensure you can start healing without undue stress about money .

You deserve a life free from addiction. The cost of rehab is a temporary challenge, but the rewards of recovery last a lifetime. By understanding rehab costs and leveraging the financial options available, you can make recovery affordable and take the first step toward a healthier, sober future. Don’t hesitate to contact Good Landing Recovery or another trusted treatment provider to explore your options – help is available, and your life is worth the investment.