What is a Sober Living Home? Types, Rules & Management Guide

A sober living home is a structured, substance-free residential environment for people in recovery from addiction. It provides supportive housing that bridges the gap between treatment and independent living.

The terms are often used interchangeably. Halfway houses traditionally refer to government-funded transitional housing after incarceration, while sober living homes are typically privately operated recovery residences.

Recovery housing includes sober living homes, sober living environments, recovery residences, halfway houses, 3/4 houses, transitional living environments, community-based residential facilities, and residential re-entry centers.

Common rules include maintaining sobriety, submitting to drug testing, paying rent, attending house meetings, completing chores, observing curfews, and participating in recovery activities or employment.

Sober living homes are for people in recovery from substance use disorders who need a structured, supportive environment. Residents typically transition from inpatient treatment or need accountability during early recovery.