Rehab Cost in Massachusetts: 2026 Treatment Cost Guide
Massachusetts has been at the forefront of both the opioid crisis and the national response to it. In 2023, the state recorded 2,125 opioid-related overdose deaths at a rate of 30.2 per 100,000 people, with fentanyl present in a staggering 90% of fatal overdoses. But Massachusetts has also achieved remarkable progress: opioid deaths decreased 10% from 2022 to 2023, and preliminary 2024 data shows a dramatic 36% further decline — one of the steepest drops in the nation.
Massachusetts brings significant advantages to the treatment landscape. The state has the lowest uninsured rate in the country at approximately 3.2%, comprehensive MassHealth (Medicaid) coverage for addiction treatment, and some of the nation’s strongest insurance parity laws. The Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS) licenses and funds treatment across the state, with approximately 450 facilities. However, Massachusetts is also one of the most expensive states for treatment due to its high cost of living. This guide covers what treatment costs, how insurance and MassHealth cover care, and where to find affordable options.
Rehab Costs in Massachusetts: 2026 Overview
| Treatment Type | Without Insurance | With PPO Insurance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Detox | $3,500 – $10,500 | $1,400 – $5,000 | 5-14 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Standard) | $18,000 – $30,000 | $6,000 – $15,000 | 30 days |
| Inpatient Rehab (Mid-Tier) | $30,000 – $45,000 | $12,000 – $22,000 | 30 days |
| Luxury/Executive Programs (Boston) | $45,000 – $80,000+ | $18,000 – $35,000 | 30 days |
| Partial Hospitalization (PHP) | $6,000 – $20,000 | $2,500 – $8,000 | per month |
| Intensive Outpatient (IOP) | $4,000 – $12,000 | $1,500 – $5,000 | per month |
| Standard Outpatient | $2,000 – $8,000 | $500 – $3,000 | per month |
| Medication-Assisted Treatment | $300 – $900/month | $25 – $250/month | ongoing |
| Sober Living (Massachusetts) | $800 – $4,000/month | typically not covered | ongoing |
Source: National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse; Massachusetts facility-reported data aggregated by ClearCostRecovery, 2026.
Massachusetts treatment costs are among the highest in the nation, reflecting the elevated cost of living and the concentration of prestigious medical facilities. Boston, the North Shore, and Cape Cod command the highest prices, while Central Massachusetts (Worcester) and Western Massachusetts (Springfield, Berkshires) offer more affordable alternatives — sometimes 30-40% below Boston rates.
Massachusetts Treatment Landscape
Massachusetts operates a comprehensive addiction treatment system through the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), a division of the Department of Public Health (DPH). BSAS licenses programs and counselors, funds treatment for the uninsured, and develops statewide addiction policy. Approximately 450 BSAS-licensed facilities provide treatment across the state.
Distribution of Treatment Facilities by Region
Greater Boston (Suffolk, Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex): The largest treatment market in the state with approximately 200+ facilities. Home to nationally recognized programs including McLean Hospital (Harvard-affiliated), Massachusetts General Hospital addiction services, and Boston Medical Center’s Project TRUST. The city has a robust network of community health centers and publicly-funded programs. Boston’s “Mass and Cass” area (Melnea Cass Boulevard/Massachusetts Avenue) has been a focal point of the visible opioid crisis.
Cape Cod and Islands (Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket): Approximately 30 facilities. The Cape has experienced severe opioid impact with limited year-round treatment capacity. Seasonal tourism population fluctuations complicate service delivery. Several residential programs serve individuals drawn to the recovery-oriented coastal setting.
South Shore/Southeastern MA (Plymouth, Bristol): Approximately 50 facilities. New Bedford, Fall River, and Brockton communities have been heavily impacted by the opioid crisis with strong community-based treatment response.
Central Massachusetts (Worcester, Hampden): Approximately 60 facilities. Worcester has significant treatment infrastructure and serves as a regional hub. More affordable than Greater Boston with quality community providers.
Western Massachusetts (Hampshire, Berkshire, Franklin): Approximately 35 facilities. Springfield area has moderate treatment infrastructure. The Berkshires offer residential treatment in rural settings at lower costs. Access challenges in rural areas.
North Shore/Merrimack Valley (Essex, Middlesex): Approximately 50 facilities. Lawrence, Lowell, and Lynn have been heavily impacted by the opioid crisis. Strong community-based treatment programs.
Key Massachusetts Treatment Regulations
BSAS Licensing: All addiction treatment facilities must be licensed by BSAS. The bureau enforces comprehensive standards for staffing, treatment protocols, patient rights, and quality monitoring. BSAS also licenses individual addiction counselors.
Section 35: Massachusetts has an involuntary civil commitment law (Section 35) allowing courts to commit individuals to substance abuse treatment for up to 90 days. While controversial, it remains a tool used by families and the courts for individuals at imminent risk.
Chapter 258 Insurance Requirements: Massachusetts law mandates comprehensive insurance coverage for substance abuse treatment, including inpatient detoxification and rehabilitation, going beyond federal minimum requirements.
Harm Reduction Leadership: Massachusetts has been a national leader in harm reduction, including naloxone distribution, syringe service programs, and was among the first states to implement a drug checking program and fentanyl test strip legalization.
Insurance Coverage in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has the lowest (or near-lowest) uninsured rate in the nation at approximately 3.2% (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023), a legacy of the state’s 2006 health reform law that preceded the ACA. Comprehensive MassHealth coverage and strong employer requirements ensure broad access.
Major Insurance Carriers in Massachusetts
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts — Largest carrier with extensive statewide network. Strong coverage for all levels of addiction treatment. Comprehensive behavioral health benefits.
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (Point32Health) — Major carrier formed by merger of Harvard Pilgrim and Tufts Health Plan. Extensive Massachusetts network with strong behavioral health coverage.
Tufts Health Plan (Point32Health) — Now part of Point32Health. Major MassHealth managed care plan and commercial carrier. Comprehensive addiction treatment coverage.
UnitedHealthcare — Large employer and Medicare Advantage presence. Optum manages behavioral health benefits.
Aetna — Strong PPO coverage with national network. Covers residential treatment at 70-80% after deductible.
Cigna — Significant employer plan market share. Evernorth manages behavioral health.
BMC HealthNet Plan — Major MassHealth managed care plan serving low-income residents. Comprehensive behavioral health network.
What Insurance Covers in Massachusetts
Under Chapter 258 and federal law, your Massachusetts health insurance must cover:
- Inpatient/residential treatment (all ASAM levels)
- Medical detoxification
- Partial hospitalization (ASAM Level 2.5)
- Intensive outpatient (ASAM Level 2.1)
- Standard outpatient therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (Suboxone, methadone, naltrexone)
- Psychiatric care for co-occurring disorders
- Family therapy and counseling
- Recovery coaching and peer support
- Harm reduction services
Massachusetts Chapter 258 goes beyond federal requirements, mandating comprehensive substance abuse treatment coverage including specific inpatient detox and rehabilitation benefits.
MassHealth (Medicaid) Coverage
Massachusetts was a pioneer in health coverage expansion, and MassHealth provides comprehensive addiction treatment coverage. Approximately 2.3 million Massachusetts residents are enrolled.
What MassHealth Covers:
- All BSAS-licensed treatment levels
- Medical detox with minimal or no copay
- Residential rehabilitation (in-state and approved out-of-state)
- Outpatient counseling
- All FDA-approved MAT medications
- Recovery support services
- Peer recovery coaching
- Case management
How to Apply: Visit mahealthconnector.org or call 1-800-841-2900.
Free and Low-Cost Treatment Options in Massachusetts
BSAS-Funded Programs
BSAS funds treatment services for uninsured and underinsured individuals across the state:
- Detoxification (Acute Treatment Services/ATS)
- Clinical Stabilization Services (CSS)
- Transitional Support Services (TSS)
- Residential rehabilitation
- Outpatient counseling
- Recovery support services
How to Access: Call the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline at 1-800-327-5050 (24/7, free and confidential).
Faith-Based and Nonprofit Programs
Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers — Free 6-12 month residential programs in Boston and other Massachusetts cities. Work-therapy model with vocational training.
Gavin Foundation — Nonprofit providing residential and outpatient treatment in Boston with sliding-scale fees. One of the city’s most established recovery organizations.
AdCare — Major nonprofit treatment provider with locations in Worcester and Boston metro. Accepts MassHealth and offers financial assistance.
Gosnold — Cape Cod’s largest treatment provider with residential and outpatient services. Accepts MassHealth and offers sliding-scale fees.
Spectrum Health Systems — Multi-site nonprofit in Worcester and Central MA. Accepts MassHealth and state funding for uninsured clients.
Community Health Centers
Massachusetts has 50+ FQHCs offering addiction services on sliding fee scales:
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program
- East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
- Dimock Community Health Center (Roxbury)
- Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center (Worcester)
- Baystate Health Center (Springfield)
Detox Costs in Massachusetts
Alcohol Detox: $500-$1,200 per day ($3,500-$10,500 for 7+ days). Alcohol withdrawal requires intensive 24/7 medical monitoring. Massachusetts has extensive hospital-based and freestanding detox capacity.
Opioid Detox: $500-$1,000 per day ($3,500-$10,000 for 7-10 days). With fentanyl in 90% of fatal overdoses, extended buprenorphine induction and micro-dosing protocols are standard in Massachusetts facilities.
Benzodiazepine Detox: $500-$1,200 per day ($7,000-$16,800+ for 14+ days). Slow taper protocols required with prolonged seizure monitoring.
Stimulant Detox: $300-$700 per day ($1,500-$4,900 for 5-7 days). Psychiatric monitoring essential for depression during withdrawal.
Most insurance covers medical detox at 80-100%. MassHealth covers detox with minimal or no copay through Acute Treatment Services (ATS). BSAS-funded ATS facilities serve uninsured individuals.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Costs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has been a national leader in MAT expansion:
Suboxone/Buprenorphine:
- Without insurance: $400-$900/month
- With insurance: $30-$250/month
- Massachusetts has 4,000+ licensed buprenorphine prescribers
Methadone:
- Without insurance: $350-$600/month
- With insurance: $50-$250/month
- Approximately 40 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
MassHealth covers all FDA-approved MAT medications without prior authorization, and BSAS-funded programs provide MAT for uninsured individuals.
Choosing the Right Rehab in Massachusetts
With approximately 450 licensed facilities, careful selection matters:
Verify BSAS Licensing: Only use BSAS-licensed providers. Search the provider directory at mass.gov/substance-addiction-services.
Accreditation: Look for Joint Commission, CARF, or COA accreditation beyond state licensing.
Evidence-Based Practices: Quality programs offer CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and MAT when clinically appropriate. Massachusetts facilities generally have high evidence-based practice adoption.
Consider Location: Central and Western MA offer significantly lower costs than Greater Boston. Cape Cod provides a recovery-oriented coastal environment at moderate pricing.
Insurance Verification: Request written benefits verification before admission.
Massachusetts Addiction Crisis by the Numbers
Overdose Trends:
- 2016: 2,094 deaths (early fentanyl wave)
- 2022: 2,359 deaths (record high)
- 2023: 2,125 deaths (10% decline, fentanyl at 90%)
- 2024: Preliminary 36% decline — one of steepest drops nationally
Racial Disparities:
- Black non-Hispanic men: 84.6 per 100,000 overdose death rate (2023)
- Overall state rate: 30.2 per 100,000
- Disparities widening even as overall numbers decline
Emerging Drug Trends:
- Fentanyl: Present in 90-92% of opioid deaths
- Cocaine: Present in 56% of opioid deaths (polysubstance)
- Xylazine: 9% of opioid deaths (2023), up from 5% (2022); 34% of street supply samples
- Methamphetamine: Increasing presence in drug supply
- Alcohol: Most common substance use disorder statewide
Massachusetts Addiction Resources
Crisis Hotlines:
- MA Substance Use Helpline: 1-800-327-5050
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
State Agencies:
- MA DPH/BSAS: mass.gov/substance-addiction-services
- MA Health Connector: mahealthconnector.org
- MA DPH Opioid Data: mass.gov/lists/substance-use-and-overdose-data
Recovery Support:
- AA Massachusetts: Multiple intergroups with thousands of meetings
- NA Massachusetts: Active chapters statewide
- SMART Recovery: Multiple Massachusetts locations
- Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery (MOAR)
- Learn to Cope: Family support organization founded in MA
Sources
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Opioid-Related Overdose Deaths Report, 2023.
- Massachusetts DPH, Preliminary 2024 Overdose Data, 2024.
- BSAS (Bureau of Substance Addiction Services), 2026.
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2023.
- SAMHSA Treatment Locator, Massachusetts, 2026.
- National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2025.
- Boston Public Health Commission, Overdose Data Reports, 2024.
You May Qualify for Coverage That Pays for treatment in Massachusetts
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 & ConfidentialMassachusetts Crisis Resources
Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline: 1-800-327-5050
Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS): https://www.mass.gov/substance-addiction-services
SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rehab cost in Massachusetts?
Rehab in Massachusetts costs between $8,000 and $35,000 for a 30-day inpatient program at standard centers without insurance, with residential treatment averaging approximately $56,725 for a 13-week stay. Luxury and extended programs range $35,000-$70,000. With PPO insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $6,000 to $22,000. Massachusetts costs run higher than most states due to the elevated cost of living and concentration of prestigious medical facilities. Boston and Cape Cod programs are the most expensive.
How much does a full rehab program cost in Massachusetts?
A complete treatment episode in Massachusetts including all phases costs $25,000-$85,000 without insurance. This typically includes medical detox ($3,500-$10,500 for 7 days), inpatient rehab ($18,000-$55,000 for 30 days), intensive outpatient ($4,000-$12,000 for 8-12 weeks), and standard outpatient therapy ($2,000-$8,000 for 3-6 months). Extended inpatient stays of 60-90 days cost $16,000-$70,000. With insurance or MassHealth, out-of-pocket costs can range from minimal to $22,000.
Does insurance cover drug rehab in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts has some of the strongest insurance coverage requirements in the nation. All health insurance plans must cover substance use disorder treatment as an essential health benefit. Massachusetts Chapter 258 mandates comprehensive coverage for substance abuse treatment including inpatient detox and rehabilitation. The state also enforces federal Mental Health Parity requirements. MassHealth (Medicaid) covers comprehensive addiction services with minimal or no copays.
Does MassHealth cover drug rehab?
Yes. Massachusetts expanded Medicaid (MassHealth) well before the ACA and provides comprehensive addiction treatment coverage. MassHealth covers all levels of care including inpatient detox, residential rehabilitation (both in-state and approved out-of-state facilities), outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and recovery support services. Approximately 2.3 million Massachusetts residents are enrolled in MassHealth. The state has been a national leader in Medicaid coverage of addiction treatment.
How much is inpatient rehab in Massachusetts?
Inpatient rehab in Massachusetts ranges from $8,000 to $35,000+ for 30 days at standard centers without insurance. Boston and North Shore programs charge $25,000-$55,000+ for mid-tier to luxury options. Cape Cod and South Shore programs run $20,000-$45,000. Central and Western Massachusetts facilities (Worcester, Springfield, Berkshires) are more affordable at $18,000-$30,000. Partial hospitalization programs run $6,000-$20,000/month. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically range from $6,000-$22,000.
Are there free rehabs in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts has extensive free and low-cost options. MassHealth covers treatment with minimal copays for qualifying low-income residents. BSAS (Bureau of Substance Addiction Services) funds treatment programs for uninsured and underinsured individuals across the state. Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers offer free programs in Boston and other cities. Many nonprofit providers offer sliding-scale fees. Call the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline at 1-800-327-5050 for free referrals to available treatment.
How long is inpatient rehab in Massachusetts?
Standard inpatient rehab in Massachusetts lasts 28-30 days, the most common program length covered by insurance. Extended programs of 60-90 days are available and cost $16,000-$70,000 without insurance, though many facilities offer discounts for longer stays. Long-term residential programs (6-12 months) are available through therapeutic communities and faith-based organizations. Insurance typically authorizes 28-30 days initially with clinical reviews for possible extensions.
What is BSAS and how does it help with rehab?
BSAS (Bureau of Substance Addiction Services) is the division within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that oversees addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery services. BSAS licenses programs and counselors, funds and monitors treatment services, provides access to care for indigent and uninsured individuals, develops policies, and tracks substance abuse trends. BSAS-licensed programs include detox facilities, residential programs, outpatient clinics, and recovery support services across the state.
How bad is Massachusetts's overdose crisis?
Massachusetts has been severely impacted by the opioid crisis. In 2023, there were 2,125 opioid-related overdose deaths, with fentanyl present in 90% of fatal overdoses. The overdose rate was 30.2 per 100,000 people. However, Massachusetts has seen significant improvement: deaths decreased 10% from 2022 to 2023, and preliminary 2024 data shows a dramatic 36% further decline. Racial disparities persist — the overdose death rate among Black non-Hispanic men was 84.6 per 100,000 in 2023. Xylazine was present in 9% of deaths in 2023, up from 5% in 2022.
How much does outpatient rehab cost in Massachusetts?
Outpatient rehab in Massachusetts costs $2,000-$8,000 per month for standard programs without insurance. Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) run $4,000-$12,000 for 8-12 weeks. Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) cost $6,000-$20,000 per month. With insurance, costs drop to $500-$3,000 per month. MassHealth covers outpatient treatment with minimal or no copays for qualifying residents.
How much does alcohol rehab cost in Massachusetts?
Alcohol rehab in Massachusetts costs $18,000-$55,000 for 30 days of inpatient treatment without insurance. Alcohol detox adds $3,500-$10,500 (7-14 days) due to medical complexity and seizure risk. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are typically $6,000-$22,000 for inpatient including detox. Outpatient alcohol programs cost $2,000-$8,000 per month without insurance. Many Massachusetts programs offer FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder (naltrexone, Antabuse, Campral).
How much does detox cost in Massachusetts?
Medical detox in Massachusetts costs $500-$1,500 per day depending on substance and facility. Alcohol detox runs $500-$1,200/day ($3,500-$10,500 for 7 days with full medical supervision). Opioid detox costs $500-$1,000/day ($3,500-$10,000 for 7-10 days). Benzodiazepine detox is $500-$1,200/day ($7,000-$16,800+ for 14+ days). Most insurance covers medical detox at 80-100%. MassHealth covers detox with minimal or no copay. BSAS-funded providers offer state-funded detox for uninsured individuals.
Why is rehab so expensive in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts rehab costs run higher than most states for several reasons: the elevated regional cost of living increases staffing, real estate, and operating costs; the concentration of well-regarded medical facilities and academic medical centers (Harvard-affiliated hospitals, McLean Hospital) sets high market expectations; stringent state licensing requirements through BSAS ensure quality but add compliance costs; and Boston's real estate market makes facility operation particularly expensive. Central and Western MA offer more affordable alternatives.