Rehab Cost in Florida: 2026 Treatment Cost Guide
Florida faces a devastating addiction crisis driven by fentanyl, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs. In 2023, the state recorded 8,355 drug overdose deaths — a rate of 37.2 per 100,000 residents, significantly above the national average of 32.4. Fentanyl was involved in 78% of these deaths, according to the Florida Medical Examiners Commission.
Understanding treatment costs in Florida is critical for the millions affected. Florida has the nation’s fourth-largest treatment infrastructure with 1,248 licensed facilities (including 312 offering residential care), but costs vary dramatically across the state. This guide breaks down exactly what treatment costs in Florida, what insurance covers, and how to access care regardless of your financial situation.
Rehab Costs in Florida: 2026 Overview
| Treatment Type | Without Insurance | With PPO Insurance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Detox | $2,500 – $10,000 | $1,000 – $4,000 | 5-14 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Basic) | $15,000 – $25,000 | $6,000 – $12,000 | 30 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Mid-Tier) | $25,000 – $35,000 | $10,000 – $16,000 | 30 days |
| Luxury South Florida Facilities | $50,000 – $100,000+ | $18,000 – $35,000 | 30 days |
| Partial Hospitalization (PHP) | $5,000 – $15,000 | $2,000 – $7,000 | per month |
| Intensive Outpatient (IOP) | $3,000 – $12,000 | $1,200 – $5,000 | per month |
| Standard Outpatient | $1,500 – $6,000 | $400 – $2,000 | per month |
| Medication-Assisted Treatment | $250 – $900/month | $25 – $250/month | ongoing |
| Sober Living (Florida) | $800 – $3,500/month | typically not covered | ongoing |
Source: National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse; Florida facility-reported data aggregated by ClearCostRecovery, 2026.
Florida treatment costs are moderate compared to high-cost states (California, New York, Massachusetts) but higher than Southern and Midwestern states. South Florida (Miami, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale) commands premium pricing due to beachfront locations and luxury amenities.
Why Florida Is a Major Treatment Destination
Florida has emerged as a national hub for addiction treatment, attracting individuals from across the country:
Climate and Environment: Year-round warm weather, beaches, and resort-style settings appeal to those seeking treatment in a comfortable environment. South Florida’s tropical climate supports outdoor therapy, exercise programs, and holistic wellness approaches.
Large Treatment Infrastructure: With 1,248 facilities, Florida offers extensive options across all levels of care. Competition among providers has driven innovation in treatment approaches and amenities.
“Florida Model” Controversy: The early 2010s saw explosive growth in Florida treatment, unfortunately including many predatory “patient brokering” operations. Aggressive 2017-2020 law enforcement and regulatory reforms cleaned up the industry. Today’s Florida facilities are heavily regulated by the Department of Children and Families.
No State Income Tax: Florida’s tax structure appeals to facility operators and has contributed to market growth, though this benefit doesn’t directly impact patient costs.
Insurance-Friendly Market: Many Florida facilities accept major insurance carriers and have developed expertise in authorization and billing processes.
Florida’s Treatment Landscape
Florida operates the fourth-largest addiction treatment system in the United States, behind California, Texas, and New York. The state’s 1,248 licensed treatment facilities serve hundreds of thousands of individuals annually.
Distribution of Treatment Facilities by Region
Florida’s treatment facilities are concentrated in major metropolitan areas:
South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach): 387 facilities, 108 inpatient — Highest concentration, mix of luxury beachfront and standard community programs
Central Florida (Orange, Seminole, Osceola - Orlando metro): 198 facilities, 52 inpatient — Strong mid-tier market, multiple national chains
Tampa Bay Area (Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco): 156 facilities, 41 inpatient — Growing market, competitive pricing
Jacksonville/Northeast Florida (Duval, St. Johns): 89 facilities, 23 inpatient — Smaller but quality-focused market
Southwest Florida (Lee, Collier - Fort Myers/Naples): 74 facilities, 19 inpatient — Mix of luxury and standard programs
Northwest Florida/Panhandle: 68 facilities, 14 inpatient — More limited options, serving regional population
Rural counties have minimal treatment infrastructure, requiring residents to travel to metro areas for residential care.
Key Florida Treatment Regulations
Department of Children and Families (DCF) Licensing: All Florida treatment programs must be licensed by DCF. Requirements include:
- Specific staff-to-client ratios
- Licensed or certified counselor credentials
- Medical director for detox and residential
- Fire safety and building codes
- Comprehensive admission assessments
- Individualized treatment planning
- Discharge and aftercare planning
Laboratory Testing Regulations: Florida implemented strict regulations on urine drug testing after “patient brokering” scandals where facilities ordered excessive unnecessary tests for insurance fraud. Current rules limit testing frequency and require medical justification.
Patient Brokering Prevention: Florida Statute 817.505 criminalizes patient brokering (paying for patient referrals). This law targets the predatory practices that plagued South Florida. Violations are third-degree felonies punishable by up to 5 years prison.
Mental Health Parity Enforcement: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation enforces parity laws requiring insurers to cover addiction treatment at the same level as medical care.
Managing Entities System: Florida contracts with 7 regional Managing Entities (MEs) to administer publicly-funded behavioral health services across all 67 counties. MEs coordinate care, contract with providers, and manage Medicaid behavioral health benefits.
Insurance Coverage in Florida
Florida has a relatively high uninsured rate of 13.2% (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023) — highest in the Southeast — because the state chose not to expand Medicaid. Approximately 3.9 million Floridians are enrolled in Healthcare.gov marketplace plans.
Major Insurance Carriers in Florida
Florida Blue (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida) — Largest carrier with 5+ million members. Extensive network including most licensed Florida facilities. Generally good coverage for residential treatment with medical necessity.
UnitedHealthcare — Large employer plan and Medicare Advantage presence. Optum behavioral health manages addiction benefits. May require step-down to IOP after initial inpatient stay.
Aetna — Strong PPO coverage for residential treatment. National network gives access to out-of-state programs. Typically covers 30-day inpatient at 70-80% after deductible.
Cigna — Covers most Florida facilities through Evernorth behavioral health. Good track record with MAT coverage.
Humana — Large Medicare Advantage presence in Florida. Covers addiction treatment for qualifying beneficiaries.
Ambetter (Sunshine Health) — Major Healthcare.gov marketplace carrier. Essential health benefit coverage includes substance abuse treatment. Network more limited than legacy carriers.
Oscar Health — Newer marketplace carrier with competitive premiums. Covers addiction treatment but smaller facility network.
What Insurance Covers in Florida
Under federal law and the ACA, your Florida health insurance must cover:
- Inpatient/residential treatment (ASAM 3.1-3.7)
- Medical detoxification
- Partial hospitalization (ASAM 2.5)
- Intensive outpatient (ASAM 2.1)
- Standard outpatient therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (Suboxone, methadone, naltrexone, Antabuse)
- Psychiatric care for co-occurring disorders
- Family therapy and counseling
- Case management
Mental Health Parity laws require that addiction treatment benefits match medical/surgical benefits in cost-sharing, visit limits, and authorization requirements.
Florida’s Medicaid Coverage Gap
Florida’s decision not to expand Medicaid under the ACA created a significant coverage gap affecting approximately 800,000 low-income adults (mostly childless adults earning under 138% federal poverty level).
Who Qualifies for Florida Medicaid:
- Pregnant women
- Children under 19
- Parents with dependent children (income limits vary)
- Elderly (65+)
- Disabled individuals
Who Does NOT Qualify:
- Childless adults under 65, regardless of income
- Parents earning above approximately $7,000/year for family of three
For Those in the Coverage Gap:
- Healthcare.gov marketplace with subsidies (if income 100-400% FPL)
- County-funded programs through Managing Entities
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (sliding scale)
- Faith-based free programs
- Facility charity care and scholarships
Free and Low-Cost Treatment Options in Florida
County-Funded Programs Through Managing Entities
Florida’s 7 Managing Entities coordinate publicly-funded treatment across all 67 counties:
- Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network (Miami-Dade, Monroe)
- South Florida Behavioral Health Network (Broward, Palm Beach)
- Central Florida Behavioral Health Network (Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, others)
- Central Florida Cares Health System (Polk, Highlands, Hardee)
- Lutheran Services Florida (Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, others)
- Big Bend Community Based Care (Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla, others)
- Northeast Florida/Centerstone (Duval, Clay, Nassau, St. Johns, others)
Services available (varies by county and capacity):
- Free outpatient counseling for qualifying individuals
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Withdrawal management/detox
- Residential treatment (limited beds, often waitlisted)
- Case management and peer support
How to Access: Contact your local Managing Entity or call Florida’s Abuse Hotline 1-800-96-ABUSE for referral.
Faith-Based Free Programs
Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers — Free 6-12 month residential programs in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach. Participants work in Salvation Army retail stores as part of treatment.
Teen Challenge Florida — Faith-based long-term residential (12-15 months) for ages 18+. Locations in Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Lakeland. Minimal cost ($200-$500/month donation requested but not required).
The Lord’s Place (West Palm Beach) — Free residential and outpatient programs for homeless individuals with substance use disorders.
Community Health Centers
Florida has 46 Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offering addiction services on sliding fee scale (0-100% of cost based on income):
- Broward Community & Family Health Centers
- HealthSource South Florida
- Community Health of South Florida
- Jessie Trice Community Health System (Miami)
- Citrus Health Network
- Apalachee Center (Tallahassee)
- Meridian Behavioral Healthcare (Gainesville)
Detox Costs in Florida
Medical detoxification costs in Florida reflect moderate pricing compared to high-cost coastal states:
Alcohol Detox: $300-$800 per day ($2,100-$11,200 for 7-14 days). Alcohol withdrawal requires intensive 24/7 medical monitoring for seizure risk, vital sign instability, and delirium tremens complications.
Opioid Detox: $250-$700 per day ($1,750-$7,000 for 7-10 days). Most Florida programs use buprenorphine-assisted withdrawal rather than abrupt cessation. Many transition patients to ongoing Suboxone maintenance.
Benzodiazepine Detox: $300-$800 per day ($4,200-$11,200 for 14+ days). Benzo withdrawal requires slow taper protocols and prolonged monitoring for seizure risk.
Stimulant Detox: $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 and suicidal ideation.
Fentanyl Detox: $300-$800 per day ($3,000-$8,000 for 10+ days). Fentanyl’s high potency and long half-life complicate withdrawal. Extended buprenorphine induction protocols are increasingly used.
Most insurance covers medical detox at 80-100% under medical benefits with deductible and coinsurance applying.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Costs
Florida has strong MAT infrastructure despite past controversies:
Suboxone/Buprenorphine:
- Without insurance: $400-$800/month
- With insurance: $30-$200/month
- Florida has 4,000+ licensed buprenorphine prescribers
Methadone:
- Without insurance: $300-$550/month
- With insurance: $50-$250/month
- Florida has 85+ licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs)
Naltrexone/Vivitrol:
- Oral naltrexone: $50-$150/month without insurance, $10-$50 with insurance
- Vivitrol injection: $1,300-$1,700/month without insurance, $0-$300 with insurance
Disulfiram (Antabuse):
- $40-$100/month without insurance, $10-$30 with insurance
Choosing the Right Rehab in Florida
With 1,248 facilities, selecting the right program requires careful evaluation:
Verify DCF Licensure: Check facility license status at Florida DCF License Verification: myflfamilies.com
Accreditation: Look for Joint Commission, CARF, or COA accreditation beyond state licensing.
Evidence-Based Practices: Quality programs offer CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and MAT when appropriate.
Beware of Predatory Practices: Warning signs include: unsolicited phone calls offering free sober living, promises of guaranteed results, pressure tactics, or refusal to provide cost estimates.
Insurance Verification: Request written benefits verification before admission showing exactly what your plan covers.
Florida Addiction Crisis by the Numbers
Overdose Trends:
- 2016: 5,725 deaths (heroin and prescription opioids)
- 2019: 6,964 deaths (fentanyl emerges)
- 2021: 8,240 deaths (COVID isolation increases risk)
- 2023: 8,355 deaths (fentanyl dominance at 78% involvement)
Hardest-Hit Counties (2023 rates per 100,000):
- Baker County: 67.3 (rural, small population)
- Okeechobee County: 64.1
- Dixie County: 61.8
- Levy County: 58.2
- Columbia County: 56.9
Miami-Dade has highest absolute numbers (1,124 deaths) but lower per-capita rate (40.8) due to population of 2.7 million.
Florida Addiction Resources
Crisis Hotlines:
- Florida Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
- Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)
State Agencies:
- FL Dept of Children and Families, Substance Abuse: myflfamilies.com/service-programs/substance-abuse
- FL Dept of Health: floridahealth.gov
- Healthcare.gov Florida: healthcare.gov
Recovery Support:
- AA Florida: aa-florida.org — 3,000+ meetings
- NA Florida: floridaregion.org
- SMART Recovery: Multiple Florida locations
Sources
- Florida Medical Examiners Commission, Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons, 2023.
- CDC WONDER, National Vital Statistics, 2023.
- SAMHSA Treatment Locator, Florida, 2026.
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2023.
- CMS Marketplace Enrollment Report, 2025.
- National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2025.
- Florida Department of Children and Families, Substance Abuse Services, 2024.
You May Qualify for Coverage That Pays for treatment in Florida
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 & ConfidentialFlorida Crisis Resources
Florida Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Florida Department of Children and Families, Substance Abuse Program: https://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/substance-abuse/
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rehab cost in Florida?
Rehab in Florida costs between $15,000 and $45,000 for a 30-day inpatient program without insurance. With PPO insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $6,000 to $18,000. Florida has a competitive treatment market with facilities ranging from basic residential programs ($15,000-$25,000) to luxury beachfront centers in South Florida ($50,000-$100,000+). The state's large treatment infrastructure and competition help keep prices below high-cost states like California and New York.
How much does a full rehab cost in Florida?
A complete treatment episode in Florida including all phases costs $25,000-$70,000 without insurance. This typically includes medical detox ($2,500-$10,000 for 5-14 days), inpatient rehab ($15,000-$45,000 for 30 days), intensive outpatient ($3,000-$12,000 for 8-12 weeks), and standard outpatient therapy ($1,500-$6,000 for 3-6 months). With insurance, out-of-pocket costs range from $8,000-$25,000 for the complete continuum of care.
Do you have to pay for rehab in Florida?
Not necessarily. If you have health insurance (private or Medicare), your plan is required to cover substance abuse treatment under the Affordable Care Act and Mental Health Parity laws. Your out-of-pocket costs depend on your deductible, copays, and out-of-pocket maximum. Florida also offers free or low-cost treatment through county-funded programs, sliding-scale community health centers, and faith-based programs. However, Florida did not expand Medicaid, so low-income adults without children often struggle to access free care.
How much is the cheapest rehab in Florida?
The most affordable options are free through faith-based programs like Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers or Teen Challenge, which offer long-term residential treatment in exchange for work therapy. County-funded programs provide sliding-scale services starting at $0-$200/month based on income. For those with Medicare or marketplace insurance, subsidized plans cover treatment with copays of $50-$300 per session. Some Florida facilities offer scholarships reducing costs to $5,000-$10,000 for full 30-day programs.
How much does inpatient rehab cost in Florida?
Inpatient rehab in Florida ranges from $15,000 to $45,000 for 30 days without insurance. Basic residential programs in Central and North Florida cost $15,000-$25,000. Mid-tier programs in Tampa, Jacksonville, and inland areas run $25,000-$35,000. Upscale facilities in South Florida (Miami, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale) and beachfront programs charge $35,000-$80,000. With insurance, your out-of-pocket costs depend on your deductible and coinsurance, typically $6,000-$18,000 for 30 days.
How much is 2 weeks of rehab in Florida?
A 2-week (14-day) inpatient program in Florida costs approximately $7,000-$22,000 without insurance. However, 14 days is generally considered too short for effective treatment. Most insurance plans and clinical best practices recommend minimum 28-30 days for residential care, with 60-90 days showing significantly better outcomes. Some Florida facilities offer short-term stabilization programs (7-14 days) designed to transition to intensive outpatient rather than standalone treatment.
Does insurance pay for addiction treatment in Florida?
Yes. All health insurance plans sold in Florida — including employer plans, ACA marketplace plans, and Medicare — must cover substance use disorder treatment as an essential health benefit. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires insurers to cover addiction treatment at the same level as other medical conditions. However, Florida Medicaid does not cover most childless adults due to the state's decision not to expand Medicaid, leaving a significant coverage gap for low-income residents.
How do you qualify for inpatient rehab in Florida?
Inpatient rehab qualification in Florida is based on ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) Level of Care criteria. You typically qualify if you have: severe substance use disorder not responding to outpatient care, dangerous withdrawal risk requiring 24/7 medical monitoring, co-occurring mental health disorders needing integrated treatment, unstable or unsafe living environment threatening recovery, or history of multiple relapses after outpatient treatment. Insurance companies and Florida's Department of Children and Families use ASAM Level 3.1-3.7 criteria for residential placement authorization.
How long do people usually stay in inpatient rehab in Florida?
Most people in Florida inpatient rehab stay for 30 days, which is the standard program length covered by most insurance plans. However, clinical research and Florida's treatment outcomes data show that 60-90 day programs produce significantly better long-term abstinence rates. Some Florida facilities specialize in long-term care (90 days to 12 months), particularly for individuals with chronic relapsing addiction, co-occurring disorders, or criminal justice involvement.
What is the 3-hour rule for inpatient rehab?
The 3-hour rule in Florida refers to Medicare's requirement that beneficiaries must be able to participate in at least 3 hours of therapy per day to qualify for inpatient rehabilitation (skilled nursing) coverage. However, this applies to medical rehab (post-stroke, post-surgery) not addiction treatment. For substance abuse treatment, there is no 3-hour rule — admission is based on ASAM criteria assessing addiction severity, withdrawal risk, co-occurring conditions, and recovery environment safety.
How much is drug rehab in Florida?
Drug rehab in Florida costs vary by level of care. Outpatient programs cost $1,500-$6,000 per month without insurance ($400-$2,000 with insurance). Intensive outpatient (IOP) runs $3,000-$12,000 per month without insurance ($1,200-$5,000 with insurance). Inpatient/residential costs $15,000-$45,000 for 30 days without insurance ($6,000-$18,000 with insurance). Medical detox adds $2,500-$10,000 depending on substance and complexity. Total cost for complete treatment continuum: $25,000-$70,000 without insurance.
What is the number one rehab in Florida?
Florida has numerous highly-rated treatment programs rather than a single 'number one' facility. Top-rated programs include: Orlando Recovery Center (evidence-based treatment for all substances), Banyan Treatment Centers (multiple Florida locations, specialty tracks), The Recovery Village (comprehensive care continuum), and WhiteSands Treatment (luxury beachfront facilities). The best program depends on your specific needs: addiction type, co-occurring disorders, insurance coverage, location preference, and treatment philosophy (12-step vs. non-12-step).
How long is rehab in Florida?
Rehab length in Florida varies by program and individual needs. Standard options include: short-term detox (5-14 days), 30-day residential (most common), 60-day extended care, 90-day long-term residential (recommended for best outcomes), and 6-12 month therapeutic communities. Florida law requires licensed residential programs to have individualized treatment plans with length based on clinical assessment. Most insurance authorizes 30 days initially with potential extensions for medical necessity.
How long can you be in drug rehab for in Florida?
In Florida, you can stay in drug rehab as long as medically necessary and covered by your funding source. Insurance typically authorizes 30 days initially with continued stay reviews every 7-14 days. Private pay allows indefinite stays. Florida's county-funded programs through Managing Entities cover 30-90 days depending on clinical need and capacity. Long-term residential programs (6-12 months) are available through faith-based organizations, therapeutic communities like Delancey Street, and specialized programs for chronic relapsing addiction.
Does Florida Medicaid cover drug rehab?
Florida Medicaid covers drug rehab for eligible beneficiaries, but Florida's Medicaid eligibility is very restrictive. The state did not expand Medicaid under the ACA, so childless adults generally do not qualify regardless of income. Medicaid coverage is primarily limited to: pregnant women, children, parents with dependent children, elderly, and disabled individuals. For those who do qualify, Florida Medicaid covers outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and some residential care through managed care plans. Low-income childless adults must seek county-funded programs or marketplace insurance with subsidies.
Are there free rehabs in Florida?
Yes, Florida has several free rehab options. Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers offer free 6-12 month residential programs in exchange for work therapy (locations in Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Jacksonville). Teen Challenge provides faith-based long-term residential care at no cost. County-funded programs through Florida's Managing Entities (7 regions covering all 67 counties) offer free or sliding-scale treatment based on income. Federally Qualified Health Centers provide free outpatient addiction services for uninsured individuals. Additionally, many facilities offer scholarships and charity care reducing or eliminating costs.
How much does alcohol rehab cost in Florida?
Alcohol rehab in Florida costs $15,000-$45,000 for 30 days of inpatient treatment without insurance. Alcohol detox adds $2,500-$10,000 (5-14 days) due to medical complexity and seizure risk requiring 24/7 physician oversight. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are typically $6,000-$18,000 for inpatient including detox. Outpatient alcohol programs cost $1,500-$6,000 per month without insurance, or $400-$2,000/month with insurance. Many Florida programs offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder (naltrexone, Antabuse, Campral) covered by most insurance plans.