ABA therapy cost in Chicago.
Families in Chicago typically see hourly rates of $140–$210/hr. Here's how that compares nationally, what insurance covers in Illinois, and what to expect locally.
$140–$210/hr · Above national averageUpdated April 2026Cost at a glance.
ABA coverage in Illinois.
$36,000/yr
Covers through age 21
Illinois Medicaid (MMAI and Medicaid Managed Care) covers ABA for children with autism.
What to expect in Chicago.
Chicago-area ABA rates are significantly higher than downstate Illinois, reflecting a competitive provider market and higher cost of living. Illinois's insurance mandate caps annual benefits at $36,000 for individuals through age 21. Most major carriers operating in Illinois cover ABA up to this cap, though intensive full-time programs (30+ hrs/week) will typically exhaust the annual limit.
Questions caregivers ask about Chicago.
Q.01How much does ABA therapy cost in Chicago?
ABA therapy in Chicago typically costs $140–$210 per hour. For 20 hours per week, families can expect monthly costs of $11,000–$18,000 without insurance. Illinois commercial insurance covers ABA up to $36,000 per year for individuals through age 21.
Q.02What is Illinois's $36,000 ABA insurance cap?
Illinois law (215 ILCS 5/356z.14) requires insurers to cover ABA therapy up to $36,000 annually for individuals through age 21. For part-time programs (10–15 hours/week), this cap is often sufficient. Families pursuing intensive programs (30–40 hours/week) will likely exhaust the cap mid-year and face out-of-pocket costs.
Q.03Does Illinois Medicaid cover ABA therapy?
Yes. Illinois Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children with autism through the Medicaid Managed Care and MMAI programs. Families must obtain a diagnosis and prior authorization. Coverage through Medicaid is not subject to the $36,000 commercial insurance cap.
Q.04How do Chicago ABA costs compare to national averages?
Chicago ABA rates ($140–$210/hr) are above the national average of $120–$150/hr. The premium reflects Chicago's higher cost of living and BCBA compensation levels. Families in suburban Cook County or DuPage County may find rates 10–20% lower than in the city proper.
More ABA data for Illinois
Compare ABA providers in Chicago.
Rates vary widely by provider. To compare pricing, availability, and reviews across clinics in Chicago, use the independent directory ABA Rank - you can browse and compare ABA providers in Chicago.
Running an ABA program in Chicago?
Higglo works with ABA providers across Illinois on marketing, intake, and growth. Talk to our team about your program.