Running a sober living home can be both mission-driven and financially sustainable. Success comes from smart planning, the right location, and a strong focus on resident outcomes.
Research Local Demand
Talk to discharge planners and treatment providers. Ask:
- Which demographics (e.g., men, women, youth) lack sufficient housing?
- What price point works for most clients?
- Which neighborhoods are most requested?
- Do referral sources prefer structured vs. low-structure homes?
- What’s the appetite for MAT (medication assisted treatment)-friendly housing?
This ensures your program fills unmet needs.
Choose the Right Location
Location makes or breaks a sober home. Look for:
- Which neighborhoods are preferred by referral sources and residents?
- Consider access to public transportation and jobs
- Is it close to recovery meetings, outpatient treatment, or community services?
- Does the neighborhood support sober living, or could you face opposition?
A good location increases referrals and resident stability.
Navigate Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Compliance is non-negotiable. Key considerations include:
- Zoning and Permits: Verify the property complies with local zoning for group homes or residential use. Obtain necessary permits.
- Licensing and Certification: Some states require SLHs to be licensed. Check with your state’s health or human services department. Consider certification from the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) for credibility.
- Fair Housing Laws: The Fair Housing Act protects residents in recovery from discrimination, but local laws may limit the number of unrelated occupants.
- Business Setup: Register as a nonprofit or for-profit entity, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and secure liability insurance to cover risks like property damage or disputes.
- Create Forms and Policies: Clear policies protect your program and your residents. Use these free templates as a starting point:
- Essential Forms and Policies-
- Supplemental Forms and Policies You May Need -
Run the Numbers
Keep it simple:
Projected Revenue = Avg. Beds Filled × Avg. Rent
Projected Costs = Housing + staffing + insurance + food + software + utilities
👉 Check out the Fletcher Group Economic Calculator.
This free tool quantifies the economic benefits of recovery housing—healthcare savings, reduced criminal justice costs, productivity gains, and ROI on property investments.
Market Professionally
A simple, credible website is essential. Include:
- House photos
- Admission criteria
- Online application link and real time (Available in Sobriety Hub Software)
- Real Time Bed Availability Link (Available in Sobriety Hub Software)
See our example sober living website. Notice how including an application link signals legitimacy to both residents and referral sources.
Stay Mission-First
Homes opened solely for profit rarely succeed. The strongest operators prioritize recovery outcomes, with financial sustainability following naturally.
Build Partnerships, Not Rivals
The treatment gap is still massive—fewer than 1 in 10 people with SUD receive care. Other homes are allies. Operators who network, cross-refer, and collaborate enjoy stronger reputations and more sustainable businesses.
Differentiate Yourself
Stand out by offering something unique:
- Women-and-children housing
- Trauma-informed care
- Higher-amenity homes at premium rates
- Strong alumni and aftercare programs
- Youth recovery housing – now a national priority, with SAMHSA announcing $43M in new funding in August 2025 to expand services in this space.
Referral sources should immediately understand what sets your home apart.
Final Word
Sober living isn’t about “getting rich.” It’s about creating stability for residents while running a disciplined, mission-driven business. Start with demand, choose the right location, and build on policies, culture, and credibility.
At Sobriety Hub, we’ve seen dozens of operators streamline operations with our software—freeing them to focus on what matters most: recovery.
👉 Subscribe to our Sobriety Hub newsletter to stay updated on recovery housing news and resources or book a demo learn more about our software, to get form templates, and get your sober living operating efficiently.