Massachusetts Sober Housing Financial Landscape: MASH and Fletcher Group

Massachusetts continues to face the harsh realities of substance use disorder (SUD), with overdose rates increasing and an urgent need for sustainable recovery solutions. One of the most critical yet often overlooked pillars in this ecosystem is sober housing—an essential form of supportive housing that offers residents a stable, substance-free environment to begin or continue their recovery journey.

A new report released in March 2025 by the Fletcher Group and the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH) sheds light on the financial challenges and opportunities within the Massachusetts sober housing sector. The findings provide valuable insight into how we can better support sober housing operators—and ultimately, the individuals they serve.

MASH plays a vital role in supporting recovery communities by setting standards and certifying sober living homes across the state. Certified homes must meet key requirements related to safety, resident rights, and recovery-focused practices. In addition to overseeing certification, MASH advocates for strong policies that promote quality recovery housing and long-term sobriety. The organization also serves as a valuable resource for both sober home operators and individuals in recovery, helping connect people with structured and supportive living environments.

Key Insights from the 2025 Fletcher Group Sober Housing Survey

The Fletcher Group is a national organization dedicated to expanding access to high-quality recovery housing, especially in rural and underserved communities. It provides technical assistance, training, and support to help states and local organizations develop and improve sober living programs. By promoting evidence-based practices and offering guidance on funding, compliance, and operations, the Fletcher Group helps ensure that recovery housing is safe, effective, and sustainable. The organization also works closely with federal agencies and recovery housing networks to improve standards, share best practices, and support long-term recovery outcomes nationwide.

📊 Which Massachusetts Sober Living Homes Were Surveyed?

35 sober housing operators (representing 67 residences)
Serving a total of 854 residents
71% were for-profit organizations
97% supported medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
60% had a resident waitlist, indicating strong demand

💵 What Does It Cost to Run a Sober Home in Massachusetts?

The median annual operating cost for a sober home in Massachusetts is $102,800. However, costs vary dramatically depending on the number of homes and residents served:

Single-home operators: Median cost of $95,000
Multi-home operators: Median cost of $276,000

Operating costs per resident average $4,500 annually, with room and board expenses—rent, utilities, and staffing—making up 76% of the total.

How Are Massachusetts Sober Homes Funded?

The primary source of revenue is resident fees and rent (58%), with the average monthly fee around $761. However, many organizations reported they only collect about 84% of what they charge—highlighting challenges with resident affordability.

Other sources include:

MASH Probation/Parole Partnership Grant (16%)
MASH Rent Assistance Program (15%)
Donations and small-scale grants (2% or less)

Notably, only 1% of revenue came from federal grants or state contracts, revealing a gap in public funding.

Major Barriers to Financial Sustainability in Massachusetts Sober Houses

Survey respondents were clear: lack of financial resources is the number one challenge, followed closely by community stigma. Operators also struggle with:

Difficulty finding and applying for grants
Unreliable payment from residents
High property maintenance and insurance costs

One respondent shared, “Writing for grants is a niche skillset. There’s little to no money available unless you know exactly where to look.”

Fletcher Group’s Findings on Financial Resilience in Sober Living

While many operators feel moderately resilient, 33% rely on a single revenue source for over 75% of their income—a major vulnerability. Furthermore, most organizations do not believe they can rely on community or government partners during a financial crisis.

Still, there’s optimism. A majority (62%) believe they can “bounce back from any challenge,” showing the determination of those leading these vital recovery spaces.

MASH’s Policy Recommendations for Stronger Sober Living

To help stabilize and expand sober housing in Massachusetts, the report outlines several crucial policy steps:

Increase funding access for capital improvements, operating costs, and resident subsidies.
Create longer-term, sustainable funding programs.
Offer grant-writing training and support through state agencies.
Strengthen partnerships across the SUD recovery ecosystem.
Address stigma through education and community engagement.
Improve data collection to support future funding and policy decisions.

Why Strong Sober Living Matters

At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we understand that recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. It requires community, consistency, and support, and sober homes are a lifeline for many individuals transitioning from treatment into independent, purpose-driven lives. We assure work with our sober house operators to ensure these goals.

To protect and grow this essential resource, we must invest in the financial health of sober housing programs. This includes funding support, administrative training, and efforts to reduce stigma. The more resilient our sober living infrastructure, the stronger the foundation for long-term recovery in Massachusetts and beyond.

🏠 Interested in Learning More?

Join us in transforming lives—Vanderburgh Sober Living empowers passionate sober house operators to build thriving, sustainable recovery homes that make a lasting impact. Together, we’re shaping the future of structured sober living.

With the right tools, guidance, and community, your support can grow into a beacon of hope for others. Let’s create sober living spaces where recovery isn’t just possible—it’s supported, structured, and deeply valued.