What’s the Cost of Addiction Treatment?

Author

Quentin Blount

About the Author

Medical Reviewer

Sendra Yang

About the Reviewer

The cost of addiction treatment will vary depending on several different factors, including your past drug use, the type of drugs you used, your insurance coverage, and more. Some drug and alcohol rehab facilities offer free programs, while others can cost in the thousands. The type of program you choose, the length of time you’re in it, and the treatments you receive will play a large part in how much you’ll pay.

Average Cost of Addiction Treatment

There are several levels of care that range from highly intensive to less intensive. Usually, the more intensive treatments and levels of care will cost more than the lower levels.

Detox: A medical detox program is designed to help remove all drugs and alcohol from your body. On average, detox costs around $525 per day. Over a seven day period, a detox program averages out to $3,675.1
Inpatient: During inpatient care, you’ll stay at a rehab facility for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on the length of the program. A 30 day program can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the clinic. 60 to 90 day programs can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $60,000.1
Outpatient: Outpatient care is when you receive addiction treatment services without actually being admitted to a facility. These services are less intensive and usually less expensive than inpatient. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) range between $15,000 to $19,500 over a 30 day period. Meanwhile, general outpatient rehab averages anywhere from $1,400 to $10,000 over the same span of time.1
MAT program: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of FDA-approved medications such as methadone to help treat opioid use disorders. When adjusted for current inflation, the cost of methadone treatment can range anywhere from $5,897 to $18,468.1

What Factors Impact the Cost of Treatment?

Amenities: Some alcohol and drug rehabs offer upscale amenities such as private rooms, swimming pools, fitness programs, gyms, chefs and gourmet food, tennis courts, and more. However, these luxury centers can cost tens of thousands of dollars per month. In general, the more amenities a rehab center has, the more it will cost.
Treatments offered: The treatment you need will depend on how severe your addiction is. For example, alcohol and heroin users can experience dangerous withdrawal symptoms during detox and sometimes need medication. The more medical care you need, the more you’ll likely pay.
Location: The location of an addiction treatment center can play a large part in the cost as well. If you plan to attend a beachfront rehab or one with scenic mountain views, you can expect it to cost more than a typical facility.
Length of stay: Whether you are enrolled in an inpatient or outpatient program, the longer the program, the more it will cost.

What if You Can’t Afford to Pay for Rehab?

Free rehab: Even if you have no money and no insurance, getting help for your addiction is still possible. There are public assistance programs available, and some addiction treatment centers offer programs at very low or no cost at all, thanks to charitable contributions and state and federal funding.
State-funded rehab: Some alcohol and drug rehab centers operate thanks to state and government funding. These facilities can offer treatment at low or no cost to those struggling with addiction. However, they usually have certain requirements you must meet.
Scholarships: Many organizations offer rehab scholarships to those in need. Check with your local community organizations, churches, and nonprofits to see what’s available.
Medical loans: Alternative financing options for rehab are available if you don’t have health insurance. For instance, you can take out a medical loan either through a private loan company or a treatment center that partners with one.
Sliding scale: Some rehab centers and programs can offer help on a sliding scale. That means that the cost of addiction treatment will be adjusted based on your financial situation and how much you are able to pay.

Is Rehab Really Worth It?

Rehab is well worth the cost, and the price is not always as high as you might think. In fact, with some research and help with financing, most individuals can find a program at a price they can afford with the options they need.

In many instances, addiction itself can be more expensive than getting treatment. The cost of drugs and alcohol adds up over time, and substance abuse can lead to legal fees, fines, health problems, and medical bills.

Although it can be challenging to admit that you need help, don’t let the price of care stop you from getting it.