Top 14 Differences Between Sober Living and Halfway House

You might be asking the difference between a structured sober living and halfway house. So here’s the answer.

First, there are negative connotations associated with the term halfway house. But both types of residences are group homes designed to help individuals struggling with substance use disorders transition to living on their own.

However, the primary difference is that a sober living home typically serves as a bridge from treatment to independent living, providing a structured environment with support and accountability. In contrast, a halfway house often serves individuals transitioning from jail and may include those who are court-ordered, not just those voluntarily seeking help.

Sober Living and Halfway House: 14 Key Differences

Rules, Structure, and Accountability

The rules, structure, and accountability differ significantly between halfway houses and structured sober living homes. Structured sober living homes often have stricter rules and more comprehensive accountability measures.

Staff and Management

Typically, a structured, sober living home is going to have full-time employees as members of the staff. When house managers are full-time employees, it’s not just a senior resident that gets free rent to be the house manager. Many times, senior residents have been sober for less than 30 days and may have another job, so they’re not really around and may not have much oversight or training.

In contrast, structured sober living homes have house managers who are full-time employees with a training program set up. Their full-time job is to be the house manager.

Drug Testing

In a structured, sober living home, there’s going to be random drug testing two times per week. It’s random because drug testing in a sober living environment is preventative. Knowing that you’re getting drug tested discourages getting drunk or high, as you know you’ll get caught and discharged.

In contrast, halfway houses may only conduct drug testing when substance use is suspected, leading to less consistent monitoring.

Curfew and Daily Routine

Curfews and structured daily routines, including specific wake-up times, chores, and limited TV time, are common in structured sober living homes. Halfway houses may have less rigid schedules, providing more leniency in daily activities.

Technology Assisted Care

Technology-assisted care, including GPS tracking and activity tracking, is often utilized in structured sober living homes. Halfway houses typically do not offer such advanced technological support.

Food and Community

Food is often included in structured, sober living homes, promoting community by reducing conflicts over food theft. When food is provided by the group home, it promotes community because all of the food in the house belongs to everybody. In halfway houses, food may not be included, leading to potential disputes among residents.

12-Step Programs and Recovery Work

A 12-step requirement or participation in a recovery program is mandatory at a structured, sober living home. In contrast, halfway houses might not require this, or it may be more of a suggestion. Without paid staff to facilitate recovery and enforce program rules, it’s less likely to happen.

Self-Care Requirements

Self-care is emphasized in structured sober living environments, often including gym memberships. Halfway houses may not prioritize self-care to the same extent.

Neighborhood Location

Structured sober living homes are typically located in nicer neighborhoods conducive to recovery, unlike halfway houses that may be in less favorable areas with more exposure to drugs and crime.

Court-Ordered Clients

Halfway house clients are often court-ordered, whereas residents of structured sober living homes usually come from treatment centers and choose to be there voluntarily.

Accommodating Various Disorders

Structured sober living homes can accommodate substance use disorders as well as process addictions and certain mental illnesses. Halfway houses primarily address substance use disorders and may not be equipped to handle additional mental health issues.

Cost Differences

Structured sober living homes are generally more expensive, often ranging from $2,000 to $50,000 a month. However, it’s worth noting that some structured sober living homes can be as affordable as $495 a month. Take Resilient Home Living for example. In comparison, halfway houses typically cost between $100 to $200 per week.

Commitment Duration

Structured sober living homes often require longer commitments, from monthly to 90 days, compared to the weekly arrangements of halfway houses.

Motivation for Recovery

Conclusion