Supportive Housing

Supportive Housing

Supportive housing is long-term, affordable housing paired with services that help people remain stable. Residents typically have their own apartment or shared housing and can access case management, mental health services, employment assistance, and other supports. Sobriety may be encouraged or required depending on the program, but the primary goal is stable housing and long-term independence.

Sober Living

Sober living homes are alcohol- and drug-free residences for people in recovery. They provide peer support and accountability while allowing residents to work, attend school, or participate in treatment. Common expectations include:

• Remaining abstinent.

• Attending recovery meetings.

• Following house rules and curfews.

• Contributing to chores and paying rent.

These homes are generally less structured than treatment programs.

Halfway House

A halfway house is usually more structured than sober living and often serves as a transition from residential treatment, incarceration, or another institutional setting. Residents may have:

• Required treatment or counseling.

• Mandatory drug testing.

• Strict schedules and curfews.

• Close staff supervision.

• Time-limited stays.

Some halfway houses are operated by government agencies or contracted providers.

Three-Quarter House

A three-quarter house is a step between sober living and fully independent living. It offers more freedom while still providing a recovery-focused environment. Residents are generally expected to:

• Be employed or actively seeking employment.

• Continue participating in recovery.

• Pay rent and manage their own responsibilities.

• Live with minimal supervision.

Think of it as practicing independent living before moving into your own home.

A simple way to picture it:

Housing Type Structure Independence Typical Length of Stay

Supportive Housing Low to moderate Often long-term or permanent

Sober Living Moderate Moderate to high Several months to a year or more

Halfway House High Moderate Usually a few months

Three-Quarter House Low to moderat

Residential Treatment → Sober Living → Three-Quarter House → Supportive Housing or Independent Housing

Not every program follows that exact model, but it illustrates how the level of structure generally decreases as someone builds recovery skills, financial stability, and independence.