active addict crossing the street with arrows pointing in opposite directions

Local vs. Out-of-Town Rehab: What’s Best for You?

By

Sober Recovery Expert Author

active addict crossing the street with arrows pointing in opposite directions

Deciding to go to rehab is a brave and powerful step for those struggling with addiction. However, once you’re ready to make the move, you may be faced with another important choice: should you attend a local or out-of-town facility?

Programs near or far will both certainly help you progress towards sobriety, but location does play a significant role in how the journey is experienced and played out.

To help you find the most suitable treatment for you, we lay out the pros and cons of checking into a substance abuse rehab facility in and out-of-town.

Local Rehab

Pros

  • It’s convenient.

Attending a rehab in your city is convenient. For those who don’t have a vehicle, a nearby rehab may be the best option since a friend or family member can easily drop you off and pick you up.

  • Family and friends can visit.

Your family and friends can easily visit you if the facility allows visitation, which will also help you feel less homesick.

  • It’s cheaper.

Many times, attending a rehab within your city is much cheaper than attending one in another city or state. Some insurance companies also do not cover out of state rehabs.

Cons

  • Bad influences are easily accessible.

It may be harder to stay sober if your friends who still drink or use are in the same town as you might be more tempted to get in touch with them. If you are out of town, the distance will suit your recovery well as you’ll be far away from the people, places or things that you kept close during active addiction.

Rehab programs, either far and near home, will certainly help you progress towards sobriety.

Out-of-Town Rehab

Pros

  • It’s a fresh start.

Getting away from familiarity can do wonders for someone in recovery. While attending an out-of-town rehab, think of it as a mini-vacation where you focus on getting clean and building yourself back up. At the same time, being farther away from home also means you won’t have to worry about unexpected visitors so you can put all your energy towards your progress.

  • It’s a confidence booster.

Choosing to attend rehab in an unfamiliar place takes a bit of courage as you’ll be in a different city without family or friends. The very decision to go through recovery on your own can help you feel stronger, more confident and in control of your own life.

Cons

  • You may get homesick.

While being in a different city may serve you well, it can also cause you to feel homesick. If distance brings you tremendous amounts of anxiety, checking into a far-away rehab may not be worth trouble.

  • It’s more expensive.

Out-of-town rehab may be more expensive for you, especially if your insurance doesn’t cover it. You will have to spend money on travel arrangements, which can easily add up if the facility is distant from your residence.

If you are still unsure where you should attend rehab, make a custom list of your own pros and cons and discuss them with a loved one. In the end, wherever you decide to check-in, a local or out-of-town facility makes for a wonderful option for starting your recovery journey.

If you or someone you know is seeking help from addiction, please visit our directory of treatment centers or call 800-891-8171 to speak to a treatment specialist.

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