Sober Living or Recovery Housing? A Guide to the Different Terms Used Nationwide
Understanding the Different Terms for Recovery Housing Across the US
Finding a sober living home can be confusing because different terms—sober house, recovery home, sober living, recovery residence—are used across the country. These names vary based on region, state regulations, and organizational definitions, making it harder to navigate the recovery housing landscape.
Why so many terms? Different areas and organizations use their own terminology, leading to inconsistency.
The challenge: Someone searching for a “sober house” might miss out on a “recovery residence” simply due to naming differences.
The key takeaway: No matter the name, all of these terms refer to structured, supportive housing for individuals in recovery.
In this guide, we’ll clarify these terms, explore regional differences, and help you better understand sober living options.
The Most Common Terms & Their Meanings
The terms used to describe sober living can vary, but they all generally refer to similar types of supportive housing for individuals in recovery. However, some names carry slightly different meanings depending on location, structure, and oversight. Here are the most commonly used terms and what they typically mean:
Sober Living – A broad term that can describe both structured recovery residences and peer-supported homes.
Sober House or Sober Home – Often used in certain regions, sometimes referring to peer-run homes with less formal oversight.
Recovery House or Recovery Home – Another common term, often implying a structured environment with rules and accountability.
Recovery Residence – A formal term recognized by organizations like NARR (National Alliance for Recovery Residences), often implying a level of certification or accreditation.
What Sober Housing Is NOT
While people sometimes confuse other housing types with sober living, these terms refer to different kinds of residential settings:
Halfway House – Typically designed for those transitioning from incarceration, often with legal oversight and state funding.
Homeless Shelter – Provides temporary housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, not necessarily focused on sobriety.
Transitional Living – A broad term that can include many types of housing, not necessarily recovery-focused.
Group Home – Can serve a wide range of populations, including youth, individuals with disabilities, or those in foster care, without necessarily providing addiction recovery support.
Understanding these distinctions can help you find the right housing for recovery and avoid confusion when searching for support.
Regional Differences in Terminology
The terms used to describe sober living vary widely depending on the state or region. In some areas, specific terms carry legal or regulatory meanings, while in others, they are used more casually. These differences can impact how individuals search for recovery housing and what they can expect from different types of homes.
Here are some key regional distinctions:
Massachusetts: The term Sober House is most commonly used because Recovery House refers specifically to state-licensed facilities in Massachusetts.
The Carolinas: Recovery Home is the most frequently used term, often referring to both structured and peer-run recovery residences, but many locals refer to any form of recovery home as simply an Oxford House.
Florida: Sober Living and Recovery Residence are widely used, with the terms used interchangeably.
These variations can create confusion for individuals seeking housing in a new state or searching online for support. To illustrate these differences, the embedded Google Trends widget below displays search data for the terms Sober House and Recovery House, showing how people across different regions use these terms when looking for recovery housing.
No matter what term is used—Sober House, Recovery Home, Sober Living, or Recovery Residence—the mission remains the same: to provide safe, supportive housing for individuals in recovery. While the terminology varies by region and regulation, the goal of these homes is to foster a structured, substance-free environment that helps residents rebuild their lives.
If you’re searching for sober living, understanding local terminology can make the process easier. Researching what terms are commonly used in your area can help you find the right housing option that meets your needs.
At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we offer high-quality recovery housing across multiple states, providing a stable and supportive environment for those on the path to sobriety. Explore our sober living homes today and take the next step in your recovery journey.