02/19/2026
Recovery Residences
Dozens of studies have detailed the effectiveness of recovery residences in peer-reviewed journals and by national experts. For example, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) compared men and women leaving residential SUD treatment and returning to their prior living circumstances with those leaving residential treatment and moving into a recovery residence. Those who went to recovery residences showed significantly better outcomes at their two-year follow-up. Individuals who moved into a recovery residence, when compared to individuals who returned to their prior living circumstances, reduced their substance use (31% vs. 65%), probability of returning to use (22% vs. 47%), rates of incarceration (3% vs 9%), and increased their employment (76% vs 49%). Moreover, recovery residents earned $550 more monthly than their non-resident counterparts. This research demonstrates communal housing settings enhance substance use disorder treatment and recovery.
Through linkages to community recovery supports and the influence of the recovery residence model, better outcomes have resulted for those involved. Becoming immersed in new environments filled with caring, positive, empathetic, and empowering people can significantly impact those whose ability to thrive has been compromised by substance use disorder. Although treatment in recovery housing varies in structure, size, etc., common elements include being centered on peer support, and connection to services to promote long-term recovery
