Rehab Cost in California: 2026 Treatment Cost Guide
California faces a unique addiction crisis driven by the deadly combination of fentanyl-laced opioids and widespread methamphetamine use. In 2023, the state recorded 6,473 drug overdose deaths — a rate of 16.5 per 100,000 residents. While California’s rate is lower than the national average, the sheer scale is staggering: more people die from overdose in California each year than from car accidents. Fentanyl was involved in 71% of these deaths, according to the California Department of Public Health.
Understanding treatment costs in California is crucial for the millions affected by addiction. California has the nation’s largest treatment infrastructure with 3,248 licensed facilities (including 847 offering inpatient care), but it’s also one of the most expensive states for rehab. This guide breaks down exactly what treatment costs in California, what Medi-Cal and insurance cover, and how to access care regardless of your financial situation.
Rehab Costs in California: 2026 Overview
| Treatment Type | Without Insurance | With PPO Insurance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Detox | $3,000 – $12,000 | $1,200 – $5,000 | 5-14 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Standard) | $20,000 – $35,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 | 30 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Mid-Tier) | $35,000 – $55,000 | $12,000 – $22,000 | 30 days |
| Luxury/Malibu Facilities | $60,000 – $120,000+ | $20,000 – $45,000 | 30 days |
| Partial Hospitalization (PHP) | $6,000 – $18,000 | $2,500 – $8,000 | per month |
| Intensive Outpatient (IOP) | $4,000 – $15,000 | $1,500 – $6,000 | per month |
| Standard Outpatient | $2,000 – $8,000 | $500 – $2,500 | per month |
| Medication-Assisted Treatment | $300 – $1,200/month | $30 – $300/month | ongoing |
| Sober Living (California) | $1,200 – $5,000/month | typically not covered | ongoing |
Source: National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse; California facility-reported data aggregated by ClearCostRecovery, 2026.
California treatment costs rank among the highest in the nation, with coastal areas (Malibu, Orange County, San Diego) commanding premium rates due to real estate costs, oceanfront settings, and resort-style amenities.
Why California Rehab Costs Are Among the Nation’s Highest
Several factors make California one of the most expensive states for addiction treatment:
Real Estate and Operating Costs: California has some of the highest commercial real estate costs in the nation. A treatment facility in Malibu paying $50,000-$100,000+ monthly rent must charge accordingly. Coastal Orange County and San Diego facilities face similar economics.
Labor Costs: California’s minimum wage ($16/hour in 2024), prevailing wage requirements for some facilities, and competitive healthcare labor market drive up staffing expenses. Licensed clinicians in Los Angeles earn 30-50% more than national averages.
Regulatory Compliance: California has the nation’s strictest treatment facility licensing requirements through the Department of Health Care Services. Compliance with Title 9 and 22 regulations, fire safety codes, and staffing ratios increases operational costs significantly.
Luxury Market Segment: California pioneered the “luxury rehab” model with high-end Malibu facilities charging $80,000-$120,000+ per month. These programs set pricing expectations that cascade through the market, even for standard facilities.
High Demand, Limited Insurance Coverage: Despite 3,248 facilities, demand often exceeds capacity in major metros. Many California facilities limit insurance contracts or operate cash-pay only, reducing competitive pricing pressure.
Geographic Variation: Treatment costs vary dramatically within California:
- Malibu/Los Angeles coastal: $60,000-$120,000+ (luxury beachfront)
- Orange County/Newport Beach: $40,000-$80,000 (premium facilities)
- San Diego: $30,000-$60,000 (mix of luxury and standard)
- Los Angeles inland: $20,000-$40,000 (community programs)
- Sacramento/Central Valley: $18,000-$30,000 (more affordable)
- Northern California/Bay Area: $25,000-$50,000 (high cost of living)
California’s Treatment Landscape
California operates the largest addiction treatment system in the United States. With 3,248 licensed treatment facilities (SAMHSA Treatment Locator) — including 847 offering residential/inpatient programs — the state serves hundreds of thousands of individuals annually.
Distribution of Treatment Facilities by Major Counties
California’s treatment facilities are concentrated in major metropolitan areas:
- Los Angeles County: 782 total facilities, 198 inpatient (largest concentration in the nation)
- San Diego County: 312 total, 89 inpatient
- Orange County: 267 total, 94 inpatient (highest per-capita inpatient density)
- Riverside County: 184 total, 51 inpatient
- Sacramento County: 162 total, 42 inpatient
- San Bernardino County: 148 total, 38 inpatient
- Alameda County (Oakland/Berkeley): 143 total, 31 inpatient
- Fresno County: 97 total, 24 inpatient
- Santa Clara County (San Jose): 92 total, 19 inpatient
- Kern County (Bakersfield): 78 total, 22 inpatient
Rural counties in the far north (Del Norte, Modoc, Lassen) and agricultural Central Valley often have fewer than 10 facilities, creating access challenges despite Medi-Cal coverage.
Key California Treatment Regulations
Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS): California’s innovative expansion of Medi-Cal addiction benefits. Implemented in 41 counties covering 90% of the state’s population, DMC-ODS provides:
- Residential treatment (up to 90 days annually)
- Withdrawal management (detox)
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Outpatient services
- Case management
- Recovery support services
- Medication-assisted treatment
- No prior authorization for initial assessment and early intervention
Mental Health Parity Enforcement: California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) and Department of Insurance aggressively enforce parity laws. Insurers cannot impose:
- Higher copays for addiction treatment
- Stricter medical necessity criteria
- Lower visit limits
- More restrictive network access
California has issued millions in fines against insurers for parity violations and maintains a dedicated parity unit for consumer complaints.
Licensing Through DHCS: All California treatment programs must be licensed by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). Requirements include:
- Specific staff-to-client ratios (1:6 for residential)
- Licensed or certified counselor credentials
- Medical director oversight for detox and residential
- Fire safety and building code compliance
- Cultural competency training
- Trauma-informed care protocols
Proposition 36 (2000): California law allowing eligible individuals arrested for drug possession to enter treatment instead of incarceration. This created significant treatment capacity and county funding.
Mental Health Services Act (MHSA): 1% tax on millionaires ($1 million+ income) funds county mental health and addiction services, generating approximately $2 billion annually for treatment expansion.
Insurance Coverage in California
California has one of the nation’s lowest uninsured rates at 7.2% (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). Approximately 15.3 million Californians have Medi-Cal coverage, and 1.7 million are enrolled through Covered California (the state’s ACA marketplace).
Major Insurance Carriers in California
California’s major insurers for addiction treatment include:
Blue Shield of California — Covers 4.5 million Californians through commercial plans and Medi-Cal managed care. Extensive residential network including most accredited facilities statewide. Known for relatively smooth authorization processes for inpatient care.
Kaiser Permanente — Integrated system serving 9+ million members in California. Operates own addiction treatment programs but also contracts with outside facilities for specialized care. Strong outpatient network but limited residential options in some regions.
Health Net — Large Medi-Cal managed care presence plus commercial plans. Covers most licensed California facilities. Good track record with MAT coverage for opioid use disorder.
Anthem Blue Cross — Significant commercial and Covered California enrollment. National network gives access to out-of-state programs. Typically covers 30-day residential with extensions for medical necessity.
Aetna — Strong PPO coverage for residential treatment. Covers most California facilities including some luxury programs. Generally covers MAT without prior authorization.
UnitedHealthcare — Large employer plan presence. Optum behavioral health subsidiary manages addiction benefits. May require step-down to IOP after initial residential stay.
LA Care Health Plan — Nation’s largest publicly operated health plan serving Medi-Cal beneficiaries in Los Angeles County (2.4 million members). Extensive community-based treatment network.
Covered California Marketplace Plans — 11 carriers offer plans through Covered California. All must cover essential health benefits including substance abuse treatment. Income-based subsidies available for individuals earning up to 600% of federal poverty level.
What Insurance Covers in California
Under California law and the ACA, your health insurance must cover:
- Residential treatment: 24/7 care in licensed facility (ASAM 3.1-3.7)
- Withdrawal management: Medical detox with 24/7 monitoring
- Partial hospitalization (PHP): 6+ hours/day structured programming (ASAM 2.5)
- Intensive outpatient (IOP): 9-20 hours/week therapy and counseling (ASAM 2.1)
- Outpatient therapy: Individual and group counseling (ASAM 1.0)
- Medication-assisted treatment: Buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, Antabuse
- Medical monitoring: Physician visits, lab work, medication management
- Psychiatric services: For co-occurring mental health disorders
- Case management: Care coordination and social services linkage
- Recovery support: Peer support, relapse prevention, continuing care
California parity laws require that addiction treatment benefits match medical/surgical benefits in terms of copays, deductibles, visit limits, and prior authorization requirements.
Don’t Have Insurance in California?
If you’re among California’s 7.2% uninsured population, you have several pathways to coverage:
Medi-Cal (California Medicaid): California expanded Medi-Cal under the ACA, now covering 15.3 million residents. Eligibility:
- Adults under 138% federal poverty level ($20,783 for individual, $42,783 for family of four)
- Pregnant women and children have higher income limits
- No asset test (since 2014)
- Available year-round, no open enrollment period
Medi-Cal covers comprehensive addiction treatment at no cost. Apply at BenefitsCal.com or call 1-800-540-0517.
Covered California (ACA Marketplace): California’s health insurance marketplace offers subsidized plans for individuals not qualifying for Medi-Cal. Open enrollment runs October 15 - January 31, with special enrollment for qualifying life events year-round.
Premium subsidies available for households earning 138-600% of federal poverty level:
- 138-150% FPL: Average premium $10-$50/month after subsidies
- 150-200% FPL: Average premium $50-$120/month
- 200-400% FPL: Average premium $120-$350/month
- 400-600% FPL: Average premium $350-$600/month (new under Inflation Reduction Act)
All Covered California plans cover addiction treatment as essential health benefit.
County Drug Medi-Cal Programs: All 58 California counties operate substance abuse treatment programs, with 41 participating in DMC-ODS enhanced benefits. Services available to uninsured residents include:
- Free outpatient counseling
- Medication-assisted treatment (Suboxone, methadone)
- Case management and care coordination
- Residential treatment referrals (limited capacity, often waitlisted)
Contact your county behavioral health department for screening and enrollment.
Free and Low-Cost Programs: California has extensive charity care and sliding-scale options:
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): 300+ locations statewide offering addiction services on sliding scale
- Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers: Free 6-12 month residential programs in exchange for work therapy
- HealthRIGHT 360: Major nonprofit provider with sliding scale throughout California
- Volunteers of America: Community-based programs in multiple regions
- Homeless Healthcare Los Angeles: Free addiction services for unhoused individuals
Detox Costs in California
Medical detoxification is critical for safe withdrawal from alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids. California detox costs reflect the state’s high medical labor expenses:
Alcohol Detox: $400-$1,000 per day ($2,800-$14,000 total for 7-14 days). California’s high nursing salaries and 24/7 physician oversight requirements drive costs above national average. Alcohol withdrawal requires intensive monitoring for seizures, delirium tremens, and vital sign instability.
Opioid Detox: $300-$800 per day ($2,100-$8,000 total for 7-10 days). Most California programs now use buprenorphine-assisted withdrawal (“comfort detox”) rather than abrupt cessation. Many transition patients to Suboxone maintenance rather than attempting abstinence, improving long-term outcomes.
Benzodiazepine Detox: $400-$900 per day ($5,600-$12,600 for 14 days). Benzo withdrawal requires the slowest taper and longest medical monitoring due to seizure risk. California programs typically use phenobarbital or long-acting benzos for controlled tapers.
Stimulant Detox (Meth/Cocaine): $200-$500 per day ($1,000-$3,500 for 5-7 days). Medically safer than alcohol or benzo withdrawal but requires psychiatric monitoring for depression, paranoia, and suicidal ideation. California’s methamphetamine crisis has driven expertise in stimulant detox protocols.
Fentanyl/Synthetic Opioid Detox: $350-$900 per day ($3,500-$9,000 for 10+ days). Fentanyl’s long half-life and high potency complicate withdrawal. Many California programs use extended buprenorphine induction protocols (low-dose or micro-dosing) to manage precipitated withdrawal risk.
Social Model Detox: California pioneered “social model” non-medical detox for substances not requiring medical intervention. Peer-run programs cost $100-$300/day and serve individuals withdrawing from marijuana, methamphetamine, or who have already completed medical detox but need supportive environment before residential placement.
Medi-Cal covers all medically necessary detox at no cost. Private insurance typically covers 80-100% of detox costs under medical benefits (not mental health benefits), often with lower cost-sharing than other addiction treatment.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Costs in California
California leads the nation in MAT access with strong state support for evidence-based pharmacotherapy:
Buprenorphine/Suboxone:
- Without insurance: $450-$900/month (medication $250-$600 + doctor visits $200-$300)
- With insurance: $30-$200/month (copays for medication and office visits)
- Medi-Cal: Free (covers generic buprenorphine and brand Suboxone)
- California has 15,000+ DATA-waivered physicians and nurse practitioners
Methadone:
- Without insurance: $350-$600/month (includes daily dosing and counseling)
- With insurance: $50-$250/month depending on plan structure
- Medi-Cal: Free
- California has 200+ licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs), most concentrated in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento
Naltrexone/Vivitrol:
- Oral naltrexone without insurance: $50-$150/month
- Oral naltrexone with insurance: $10-$50/month
- Vivitrol injection without insurance: $1,400-$1,800 per monthly shot
- Vivitrol with insurance: $0-$300/month (varies by plan, many require prior authorization)
- Medi-Cal: Covers both oral and injectable naltrexone
Disulfiram (Antabuse) for Alcohol Use Disorder:
- Without insurance: $40-$100/month
- With insurance: $10-$30/month
- Medi-Cal: Free
California’s MAT infrastructure is strongest in urban counties. Rural areas may have limited methadone access, though mobile methadone vans serve some underserved regions.
Free and Low-Cost Treatment Options in California
County Drug Medi-Cal Programs
All 58 California counties operate substance abuse treatment programs. The 41 counties participating in DMC-ODS (covering 36 million of California’s 39 million residents) offer enhanced services:
How to Access:
- Contact your county behavioral health department (find at DHCS.ca.gov)
- Request screening and assessment
- Clinical staff determine appropriate level of care
- County authorizes treatment at contracted provider
- Services are free for Medi-Cal beneficiaries, sliding scale for others
Services Available:
- Outpatient counseling (individual and group)
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Withdrawal management (detox)
- Residential treatment (limited capacity, waitlists common)
- Case management and peer support
- Recovery housing subsidies (some counties)
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health operates the nation’s largest county addiction system serving 60,000+ annually through 150+ contracted providers.
San Diego County Behavioral Health Services offers robust DMC-ODS with same-day access to MAT and next-day residential assessment.
State-Funded Programs
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR): Operates prison-based and community SUD treatment for justice-involved individuals. Programs include:
- In-custody residential treatment
- In-custody MAT programs
- Post-release re-entry services
- Proposition 36 diversion programs
County Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Programs: The 1% millionaire tax generates $2+ billion annually for mental health and addiction services. Every county operates MHSA-funded programs including:
- Prevention and early intervention
- Community-based outpatient treatment
- Residential programs for underserved populations
- Specialized services (LGBTQ+, veterans, transition-age youth)
California Community-Based Organizations:
HealthRIGHT 360 — Statewide nonprofit with 30+ locations. Sliding scale residential and outpatient. Specialized tracks for women, LGBTQ+ individuals, criminal justice involvement.
Tarzana Treatment Centers — Large Los Angeles provider. Free/sliding scale programs including residential, outpatient, MAT. Serves 10,000+ annually.
Behavioral Health Services (BHS) — Major Southern California provider with residential and outpatient in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego counties. Accepts Medi-Cal and offers sliding scale.
Sober College — Innovative programs for young adults and students. Locations in Los Angeles and Newport Beach. Combines education with treatment.
How Long Does Rehab Take in California?
California offers the full continuum of care with varying treatment lengths:
30-Day Residential: Most common insurance-authorized length. Appropriate for moderate addiction with good prognosis. Approximately 50% of California residential admissions are 30-day stays.
60-Day Residential: Better outcomes for severe addiction or co-occurring disorders. California’s DMC-ODS covers up to 90 days per year, making longer stays more accessible than in many states.
90-Day Residential: Evidence-based best practice recommendation. Research from UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs shows 90+ days produces significantly better one-year abstinence rates than shorter stays.
6-12 Month Long-Term Residential: For individuals with chronic relapsing addiction, severe mental illness, or criminal justice mandates. Salvation Army, Delancey Street Foundation, and county programs offer extended residential.
California Treatment Continuum:
- Withdrawal management (detox): 5-14 days
- Residential/inpatient: 30-90 days
- Partial hospitalization (PHP): 2-4 weeks, 6-8 hours/day
- Intensive outpatient (IOP): 8-12 weeks, 9-20 hours/week
- Standard outpatient: 3-9 months, 1-3 hours/week
- Continuing care: 12-24 months, monthly check-ins
Total treatment from detox through continuing care: 12-18 months minimum for best outcomes.
Choosing the Right Rehab in California
With 3,248 facilities, selecting the right California program requires careful evaluation:
Accreditation and Licensing:
- DHCS License: Required for all California facilities (verify at DHCS.ca.gov)
- Joint Commission: Gold standard for quality and safety
- CARF Accreditation: Demonstrates outcome-focused care
- LegitScript Certification: Important for telehealth and medication prescribing
Evidence-Based Practices: Look for programs offering:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Contingency Management (especially for stimulant use)
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Medication-Assisted Treatment when appropriate
- Family therapy and couples counseling
Specialty Populations: California has extensive specialized programming:
- LGBTQ+ affirming programs: LA LGBT Center, San Francisco AIDS Foundation, others
- Women’s programs: Shields for Families, Prototypes, women-only facilities
- Spanish-language programs: Bilingual counseling throughout California
- Dual diagnosis expertise: For co-occurring mental health conditions (very common in CA)
- Professional programs: For healthcare workers, executives, pilots under regulatory scrutiny
Location Considerations:
- Geographic distance: Some benefit from staying local (family involvement, job), others need distance from triggers
- Urban vs. residential setting: LA and San Francisco offer urban programs; Malibu and rural areas offer retreat-style settings
- Cost vs. quality: Malibu luxury facilities aren’t necessarily better than community programs; check outcomes data
Insurance and Cost Transparency:
- Verify the facility is in-network before admission
- Request written estimates of out-of-pocket costs
- Ask about financial assistance, scholarships, payment plans
- Beware of facilities that refuse insurance and only accept cash-pay (may indicate quality or compliance issues)
California’s Addiction Crisis: Understanding the Scope
California’s addiction landscape differs from other states in several key ways:
Stimulant Dominance: Unlike Eastern states where opioids drive the crisis, California has concurrent epidemics:
- Methamphetamine: California leads the nation in meth use and related harms. Meth was involved in 2,892 deaths in 2023 (45% of all overdoses)
- Fentanyl: 71% of California overdose deaths involve fentanyl, often used unknowingly in counterfeit pills
- Polysubstance use: Most California overdoses involve multiple substances (fentanyl + meth + alcohol common)
Overdose Trends by Year:
- 2015: 4,392 deaths (predominantly heroin and prescription opioids)
- 2018: 5,356 deaths (fentanyl begins displacing heroin)
- 2020: 6,861 deaths (COVID-19 disrupts treatment, isolation increases risk)
- 2023: 6,473 deaths (slight decline from pandemic peak, fentanyl dominance)
California vs. National Rates: California’s overdose rate (16.5 per 100,000) is significantly lower than the national average (32.4 per 100,000), likely due to:
- Lower opioid prescribing rates historically
- Extensive treatment infrastructure and MAT access
- Medi-Cal expansion providing coverage to millions
- Strong harm reduction programs (syringe exchange, naloxone distribution)
Hardest-Hit California Counties (2023 overdose rates per 100,000):
- Shasta County: 41.2 per 100,000 (rural far northern California)
- Mono County: 38.7 per 100,000 (Eastern Sierra, small population)
- San Francisco County: 37.4 per 100,000 (urban fentanyl crisis)
- Humboldt County: 34.8 per 100,000 (rural north coast)
- Riverside County: 21.3 per 100,000 (Inland Empire, population 2.5M)
Los Angeles County has the highest absolute numbers (2,548 deaths) but a lower per-capita rate (25.4 per 100,000) due to its 10 million population.
California Addiction Resources
Crisis and Referral Hotlines
- CA Peer-Run Warm Line: 1-855-845-7415 (non-crisis support, 24/7)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (call or text, 24/7)
- California Youth Crisis Line: 1-800-843-5200 (ages 12-24)
- Los Angeles County Helpline: 1-800-854-7771 (treatment referrals)
- San Diego Access and Crisis Line: 1-888-724-7240 (24/7 crisis and referrals)
State Agencies
- CA Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), SUD Division: dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/SUD_Prevention_Treatment.aspx — State licensing, Medi-Cal coverage info, facility directory
- CA Department of Public Health, Overdose Surveillance: skylab.cdph.ca.gov/ODdash/ — Real-time overdose data, trends, resources
- Covered California: CoveredCA.com — Health insurance marketplace enrollment
- BenefitsCal: BenefitsCal.com — Apply for Medi-Cal online
County Behavioral Health Departments
Every California county operates a behavioral health department offering addiction services. Major counties:
- Los Angeles County DMH: dmh.lacounty.gov — 1-800-854-7771
- San Diego County BHS: sandiegocounty.gov/hhsa/programs/bhs — 1-888-724-7240
- Orange County HCA: ochealthinfo.com/bhs — 1-855-625-4657
- Riverside County RUHS: rivcoph.org/behavioral-health — 1-800-706-7500
- San Francisco DPH: sf.gov/departments/public-health — 1-415-255-3737
Recovery Support
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Northern California: www.aanorthernca.org — 5,000+ meetings
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Southern California: www.aa.org — 7,000+ meetings
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA) California: caregion.org — Statewide meetings
- Refuge Recovery: Buddhist-based recovery, strong California presence
- SMART Recovery California: Science-based alternative to 12-step
- LifeRing Secular Recovery: Multiple California chapters
Final Thoughts: Getting Help in California
California offers unmatched treatment options — from evidence-based community programs to luxury beachfront facilities, from free Medi-Cal coverage to specialized care for every population. Despite high costs for private pay, most Californians can access treatment through insurance or public programs.
If you or someone you care about needs addiction treatment in California:
- Check Medi-Cal eligibility — 15.3 million Californians qualify for free comprehensive treatment
- Verify insurance coverage — All California plans cover addiction treatment; specialists can help you understand benefits
- Contact your county behavioral health department — Free screening, assessment, and treatment referrals
- Don’t let cost be a barrier — Sliding scale, scholarships, and payment plans available at most facilities
- Consider medication-assisted treatment — Dramatically improves outcomes for opioid and alcohol use disorder
California’s addiction crisis is evolving with fentanyl and methamphetamine driving deaths, but the state’s massive treatment infrastructure, Medi-Cal expansion, and strong parity enforcement mean help is accessible. Don’t wait — early intervention produces better outcomes than crisis-driven care.
Sources
- California Department of Public Health, Overdose Surveillance Dashboard, 2023. skylab.cdph.ca.gov/ODdash/
- CDC WONDER, National Vital Statistics System, 2023. wonder.cdc.gov
- CA Department of Public Health, Opioid Overdose Surveillance Reports, 2023.
- SAMHSA Treatment Locator, California. Accessed February 2026. findtreatment.gov
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2023. data.census.gov
- Covered California, Annual Enrollment Report, 2025.
- California Department of Health Care Services, Medi-Cal Enrollment Data, 2024.
- National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, State-Level Cost Analysis, 2025.
- UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, California Treatment Outcome Studies, 2024.
- California Health Care Foundation, Addiction Treatment Access Report, 2024.
You May Qualify for Coverage That Pays for treatment in California
Under the Affordable Care Act, all marketplace health insurance plans must cover addiction treatment as an essential health benefit. Monthly premiums for a PPO plan that covers rehab typically range from $350 to $700 — a fraction of the cost of paying out of pocket.
A licensed insurance specialist can help you find the right plan, check for qualifying life events, and get covered — often within days.
Talk to an Insurance Specialist — Free & ConfidentialCalifornia Crisis Resources
CA Peer-Run Warm Line: 1-855-845-7415
CA Department of Health Care Services (DHCS): https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/SUD_Prevention_Treatment.aspx
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rehab in California cost?
Rehab in California costs between $20,000 and $75,000 for a 30-day inpatient program without insurance. With PPO insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $8,000 to $25,000. California is one of the most expensive states for addiction treatment due to high real estate costs, labor expenses, and the concentration of luxury facilities in Malibu, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. Standard community-based programs range $20,000-$35,000, while luxury beachfront facilities can exceed $100,000 for 30 days.
Is rehab free in California?
Yes, free rehab options exist in California through Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid program), county-funded Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) programs, and state-operated facilities. If you qualify for Medi-Cal, comprehensive substance abuse treatment is covered at no cost. California also operates county-based treatment programs in all 58 counties offering free or sliding-scale services. Additionally, programs like the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Substance Use Disorder Treatment program serve justice-involved individuals at no cost.
How much is the cheapest rehab in California?
The most affordable options are free through Medi-Cal or county programs. For those who don't qualify for public programs, sliding-scale community health centers charge as little as $100-$500 per month based on income. Some faith-based programs like Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers offer free long-term residential treatment in exchange for work therapy. Outpatient programs through Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) typically cost $0-$200 per month on a sliding scale.
What are the payment options for rehab in California?
California rehab payment options include: private insurance (PPO, HMO, EPO plans covering 60-90% of costs after deductible), Medi-Cal (free comprehensive coverage for qualifying individuals), Covered California marketplace plans (essential health benefit coverage with income-based subsidies), payment plans directly with facilities (monthly installments over 12-36 months), healthcare credit cards like CareCredit, personal loans, HSA/FSA accounts, scholarships from facilities, and sliding-scale fees at community programs. Many facilities offer financial counseling to help identify the best option.
How much would a full rehab cost in California?
A full treatment episode in California including all phases costs $35,000-$100,000+ without insurance. This typically includes: medical detox ($3,000-$12,000 for 5-14 days), inpatient rehab ($20,000-$75,000 for 30 days), intensive outpatient IOP ($4,000-$15,000 for 8-12 weeks), and standard outpatient therapy ($2,000-$8,000 for 3-6 months). With insurance, out-of-pocket costs range from $10,000-$35,000 for the complete continuum. Medi-Cal covers the entire treatment continuum at no cost for qualified individuals.
How long is the average stay at a rehab facility in California?
The average inpatient rehab stay in California is 30 days, though clinical best practices recommend 60-90 days for better outcomes. California's Drug Medi-Cal program covers up to 90 days of residential treatment annually. Private insurance typically authorizes 30 days initially with potential extensions based on medical necessity. Long-term residential programs (6-12 months) are available through county systems and some private facilities. The ideal length depends on addiction severity, substance type, co-occurring disorders, and individual progress.
Does California pay for rehab?
Yes, California pays for rehab through several programs. Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid) covers comprehensive substance abuse treatment for 15.3 million enrolled residents. The Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) provides enhanced addiction services in 41 counties. County behavioral health departments operate free or low-cost programs funded by state Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) dollars. The state also funds residential treatment for uninsured Californians through county systems and community-based organizations.
How do addicts afford rehab in California?
Most Californians afford rehab through insurance. Approximately 92.8% of California residents have health coverage (private insurance, Medi-Cal, or Medicare) that covers addiction treatment. For the uninsured, options include: applying for emergency Medi-Cal (available year-round for qualifying individuals), enrolling in Covered California during open enrollment or special enrollment periods, accessing county-funded programs through local behavioral health departments, using facility payment plans or scholarships, seeking faith-based free programs, or accessing sliding-scale federally qualified health centers.
How do you qualify for inpatient rehab in California?
Inpatient rehab qualification in California is based on ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) criteria. You typically qualify if you have: severe substance use disorder that has not responded to outpatient treatment, medical complications requiring 24/7 monitoring (such as withdrawal risk), co-occurring mental health disorders needing integrated treatment, unsafe or unstable living environment that threatens recovery, or lack of adequate social support. In California, Medi-Cal and private insurance use ASAM Level 3.1-3.7 criteria to authorize residential treatment.
How much is inpatient rehab in California?
Inpatient rehab in California ranges from $20,000 to $75,000 for 30 days without insurance. Standard community programs cost $20,000-$35,000. Mid-tier programs in Orange County or San Diego run $35,000-$55,000. Luxury Malibu beachfront facilities charge $60,000-$120,000+ per month. With insurance, your out-of-pocket costs depend on your deductible and coinsurance, typically $8,000-$25,000 for 30 days. Medi-Cal covers inpatient at no cost to qualified beneficiaries.
How long can a patient stay in inpatient rehab in California?
In California, patients can stay as long as medically necessary. Medi-Cal Drug Medi-Cal program covers up to 90 days per year of residential treatment, with extensions possible through county behavioral health. Private insurance typically authorizes 30 days initially, with continued stay reviews every 7-14 days based on clinical progress. Some California facilities offer 6-12 month long-term residential programs, particularly for individuals with severe addiction, repeated relapses, or criminal justice involvement. The actual length depends on treatment progress and funding source.
Why would someone go to inpatient rehab in California?
People choose California inpatient rehab for several reasons: severe addiction requiring 24/7 medical supervision and structure, history of failed outpatient attempts, dangerous withdrawal symptoms needing medical management (alcohol, benzodiazepines), co-occurring mental health disorders requiring integrated psychiatric care, unsafe home environment with access to substances or using networks, need for geographic separation from triggers, or preference for California's extensive treatment options including evidence-based programs, holistic wellness facilities, and specialized tracks for professionals or LGBTQ+ individuals.
Does Medi-Cal pay for drug rehab in California?
Yes. Medi-Cal covers comprehensive drug rehab including: residential treatment (up to 90 days per year), outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), medication-assisted treatment (Suboxone, methadone, Vivitrol), medical detox, psychiatric services for dual diagnosis, case management, and recovery support services. California's Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS) in 41 counties provides enhanced benefits beyond traditional Medi-Cal. Coverage is free or low-cost for Medi-Cal beneficiaries with no prior authorization required for initial assessment and early intervention services.
How long is drug rehab in California?
Drug rehab length in California varies by level of care and individual needs. Standard programs include: medical detox (5-14 days), short-term residential (30 days), long-term residential (60-90 days or 6-12 months), intensive outpatient IOP (8-12 weeks at 9-20 hours/week), and standard outpatient (3-6 months at 1-2 hours/week). California's Medi-Cal covers up to 90 days of residential annually. Research shows 90+ days of treatment produces significantly better outcomes than shorter durations, particularly for stimulant use disorder common in California.
Does Covered California cover rehab?
Yes. All health plans sold through Covered California (the state's ACA marketplace) must cover substance abuse treatment as an essential health benefit. This includes inpatient/residential treatment, outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and medical detox. Covered California plans follow the same Mental Health Parity rules as other insurance, meaning addiction treatment cannot have stricter limits than medical care. Approximately 1.7 million Californians are enrolled in Covered California plans, most qualifying for subsidies that reduce monthly premiums to $10-$150/month based on income.
Why won't insurance cover rehab in some cases?
Insurance denials in California typically occur for these reasons: treatment deemed not medically necessary by insurance reviewers (though this can be appealed), seeking an out-of-network facility without prior authorization, choosing a program that doesn't meet ASAM level of care criteria, administrative issues like missing documentation, or attempting to access a non-licensed or non-accredited program. California has strong Mental Health Parity enforcement through the Department of Managed Health Care, and denied claims can be appealed. Legal aid organizations and patient advocates can help fight improper denials.
How much does alcohol rehab cost in California?
Alcohol rehab in California costs $20,000-$75,000 for 30 days of inpatient treatment without insurance. Alcohol detox adds $3,000-$12,000 (5-14 days) due to medical complexity and seizure risk. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are typically $8,000-$25,000 for inpatient including detox. Outpatient alcohol programs cost $1,500-$6,000 per month without insurance, or $400-$2,000/month with insurance. Medi-Cal covers all alcohol treatment services at no cost. Many California programs offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder (naltrexone, Antabuse) covered by most insurance plans.