If your child has recently been diagnosed with autism, finding the right support is likely one of your top priorities.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a well-established treatment that focuses on tracking behavioral changes to evaluate improvements in communication and social skills. It also provides strategies to help children who may be facing challenges in these areas. ABA therapy is highly adaptable and can be delivered in various environments, including at home or in school settings.

That said, some children may need up to 40 hours of therapy each week to experience its full benefits—making the cost a major concern for many families. Entering the process with clear information and realistic expectations is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is the Annual Cost of ABA Therapy?

When you begin exploring the cost of ABA therapy in the U.S., the average rate of $150 to $250 per hour with a board-certified therapist can feel overwhelming. A quick calculation reveals just how quickly the expenses can add up:

10 hours per week × $150 = $1,500 per week or $78,000 per year
20 hours per week × $150 = $3,000 per week or $156,000 per year
40 hours per week × $150 = $6,000 per week or $312,000 per year

For many families, these numbers are understandably intimidating. In some cases, the high cost may limit how many hours of therapy a child can receive—potentially affecting the consistency needed for progress. But does this mean you should give up? Absolutely not.

How Can Families Afford and Access ABA Therapy?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that children with autism may require an additional $18,000 to $25,000 per year in care compared to their neurotypical peers. This includes medical visits, specialized support, and therapies like ABA—costs that can be overwhelming for many families. Fortunately, with approximately 1 in 50 eight-year-olds diagnosed on the autism spectrum, there is growing recognition of the need for financial assistance.

Several funding options are available to help ease the burden of ABA therapy costs, including:

State-funded ABA therapy programs
Insurance coverage for ABA services
School-funded ABA support
Scholarships and financial aid programs
Private payment options

Each of these paths has its own eligibility criteria and application process, but together they offer a range of possibilities for families seeking support.

State-Funded ABA Therapy Support

State-funded ABA therapy is often considered a backup option when private insurance or other funding sources aren't accessible. While many states do provide some form of assistance, the level and type of support can vary greatly from one state to another—a reality that many parents find frustrating.

That said, state programs can help cover the cost of ABA therapy and may also supply helpful resources to empower families in supporting their child’s development. Some states stand out for offering more comprehensive support, including:

California – Provides grants with no age or cost limits to help offset therapy expenses.
Colorado – Mandates insurance coverage for the full cost of ABA therapy, with no age restrictions.
Indiana – Offers grants with no age or therapy cost caps.
New Jersey – Provides various grants for children up to age 21.
New York – Covers up to $45,000 annually for ABA therapy for individuals of any age.
Vermont – Covers unlimited ABA therapy sessions for children up to age 21.

Exploring your specific state's offerings is essential, as eligibility and benefits can change over time.

ABA Therapy Through Insurance Coverage

Using insurance to cover ABA therapy is one of the most common and accessible options—especially since many states now require insurance providers to include autism treatment in their plans.

With insurance coverage, you’re typically responsible only for the plan’s deductible or copay. For example, if your policy has a $50 copay per session and your child attends four three-hour sessions per week, your out-of-pocket cost would be around $200 per week—significantly less than paying the full rate.

Even so, this can add up to roughly $10,000 per year, even with short breaks in service. Fortunately, many state programs can step in to cover or supplement these costs, reducing the financial burden and, in some cases, making therapy entirely free.

Would you like help checking whether your state mandates insurance coverage for ABA therapy?

School-Funded ABA Therapy

ABA therapy funded through schools is often provided either directly by your child’s school or through the broader school district. Before services are approved, the school may conduct assessments to determine your child’s specific needs. Once approved, the full cost of therapy is typically covered at no expense to the family.

Therapists delivering these services may be employed by outside agencies or directly hired by the district. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) usually oversees the therapy, and your child’s progress is documented as part of their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Requesting an IEP (Individualized Education Program) evaluation for ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) services involves a few clear steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process: EPI request Guide

Scholarships and Financial Assistance for ABA Therapy

Many financial organizations and nonprofit groups offer scholarships and assistance programs to help families afford ABA therapy. While each program has its own eligibility requirements and funding limits, they can provide meaningful financial relief.

Scholarships often cover a significant portion—or in some cases, the full cost—of therapy for a set period, helping ensure your child gets the support needed for their developmental and academic progress. Other forms of financial aid may not cover all expenses, but they can greatly reduce the burden of paying the full cost out of pocket.

Privately Funded ABA Therapy

Private payment options for ABA therapy are often supported by employer-sponsored programs or organizational trusts that contribute toward your child’s educational and developmental needs. The amount of support you receive typically depends on the trust’s guidelines and your household income.

Many of these programs use a sliding scale model, adjusting the cost based on your financial situation. While this approach may not cover the full cost of therapy, it can significantly lower your out-of-pocket expenses—sometimes reducing the hourly rate to as little as $20. That can amount to savings of over 80% compared to standard rates.

Is ABA Therapy Worth the Cost?

When delivered by a qualified professional, ABA therapy can offer meaningful improvements for children on the autism spectrum—

helping them grow emotionally, socially, and behaviorally. While outcomes can vary from child to child, some of the most common benefits include:

Better focus and attention during learning
Stronger relationships with family and peers
Fewer tantrums and a reduction in self-harming behaviors
Improved communication with unfamiliar people
Clearer and more confident expression of needs

In short, ABA therapy can lead to lasting improvements in behavior, communication, and overall quality of life. For many parents, those gains are truly invaluable.

It’s also important to remember that ABA therapy isn’t a lifelong commitment. Many children complete their programs within three years, and some even sooner. Over time, the skills gained through ABA can reduce the need for additional services, potentially lowering long-term care costs.

Ultimately, the value of ABA therapy depends on finding a board-certified therapist who understands your child’s unique needs and can tailor a plan that provides targeted, compassionate support.

Summary

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a widely used and effective approach for helping children with autism build essential life and communication skills. While the average cost—up to $200 per hour—can seem daunting, the potential benefits for your child’s development can make it a truly worthwhile investment.

Most children may need between 10 to 20 hours of therapy per week, with some requiring up to 40 hours over the course of two to three years. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce costs, including insurance coverage, state programs, school support, scholarships, and sliding-scale payment options.

If you’re unsure which funding option or service is right for your family, it’s a good idea to consult with a qualified advisor or specialist who can guide you through the process.