What to Know about Sober Living

After treatment, the idea of going home can stir up mixed emotions. Maybe you're ready to move forward, but you're not sure your current environment will support the progress you've made. Maybe you just need a little more structure, a little more space to breathe, and a community that gets it.

Sober living homes—also called recovery residences or transitional housing—offer that kind of support. They're places where you can keep building momentum in order to live with more stability, more connection and more support for what's involved in recovery. Whether you're leaving inpatient care or starting outpatient treatment, sober living can give you the time and space to strengthen your routines and protect your progress.

What Is a Sober Living House?

Sober living homes offer a steady environment where you can keep showing up for yourself, without the pressure to have everything figured out. These homes provide structure, community and the kind of daily rhythm that helps you stay grounded while you rebuild what matters most.

You'll live alongside others who are also focused on creating healthier routines as they navigate recovery. A sober living house is a space where you can take a breath, reset your priorities and move forward with more clarity.

Unlike halfway houses, which are often court-ordered or government-run, sober living homes are privately operated and recovery-focused. That means more flexibility, more peer support and more room for:

• Rediscovering what stability feels like
• Reconnecting with your values
• Rebuilding trust in yourself
• Finding your rhythm again

How Does Sober Living Work?

Sober living homes vary in structure, but most include:

• Shared responsibilities like chores and house meetings
• Drug and alcohol screenings to support accountability
• Curfews and visitor policies to maintain safety
• Supportive routines that help you stay focused and connected

Some homes are peer-run, while others have trained staff or offer life skills coaching. The National Association of Recovery Residences (NARR) outlines four levels of sober living, ranging from peer-supported homes to clinically integrated environments.

Who Is Sober Living For?

If you've made progress in treatment and want to keep that momentum going, sober living can offer the kind of steady support that makes a real difference.

Sober living homes could be a good fit if you:

• Have completed a treatment program and want to protect your progress
• Are attending outpatient care and need a stable place to live
• Want to build routines that support your recovery goals
• Are looking for a community that understands what you're working toward

Sober living is a practical next step if you want to live with more intention and less isolation, especially if your current home environment feels unpredictable or unsupportive.

How Long Can You Stay in a Sober Living Home?

Some people stay for a few months to reinforce new habits. Others choose a longer stay to rebuild routines, restore relationships or regain a sense of stability and purpose. Recovery is a lifelong process, and sober living gives you time to strengthen the foundation you're building.

Many homes recommend a minimum of 90 days, but the right length depends on your goals and what feels helpful and supportive for your next chapter.

What Does Sober Living Cost?

Costs vary depending on location, services and amenities. Some homes offer basic accommodations, while others include extras like meals, transportation or recovery coaching. Be sure to ask:

• What's included in the monthly rate?
• Are there additional fees?
• Is financial assistance available?

What Happens If Someone Relapses?

Relapse can feel discouraging, but it's usually a signal that more support is needed rather than a sign that recovery is out of reach. Sober living homes handle these situations with care and accountability, always prioritizing the safety of the recovery community.

Policies vary, but many homes respond by helping residents reconnect with treatment or explore higher levels of care. The goal is to guide you back toward stability, not to punish or isolate. Recovery is a process, and setbacks are part of learning what works for you.

How Do You Find a Sober Living Home Near You?

If you're receiving care at Hazelden Betty Ford, your treatment team can help you explore sober living options that fit your needs. You can also ask:

• Your therapist or counselor
• Support group members
• Friends or family
• Local recovery directories

Before choosing a sober house, take a tour, ask questions and talk to current residents. You deserve a space where you feel safe, supported and empowered.

Myths vs. Facts about Sober Living

Myth: Sober living is only for people who relapse.
Fact: Sober living is for anyone who wants to strengthen their recovery, whether you've just completed treatment or are continuing outpatient care.

Myth: Sober living homes are the same as halfway houses.
Fact: While both offer transitional housing, sober living homes are typically privately operated, more flexible, and focused on peer support and recovery.

Myth: You have to stay for a year.
Fact: Many people stay for 90 days or longer, but the length of stay depends on your personal recovery needs and goals.

Why Choose Hazelden Betty Ford?

Recovery is a new way of living, one that takes ongoing care, reflection and support. At Hazelden Betty Ford, we understand how important it is to have the right environment as you continue building a life that feels meaningful and authentically you.

We offer trusted referrals to sober living homes that reflect your goals and values. Whether you're exploring sober living for the first time or looking for a better fit, our team will help you navigate options and find a place that supports your growth and healing.

Need help finding a sober living home near you?

Call us today for a confidential conversation with a recovery expert. We'll help you take the next step with confidence.

• Call 1-866-831-5700
• Explore our recovery support options
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