Families in Denver typically see hourly rates of $135–$200/hr. Here's how that compares nationally, what insurance covers in Colorado, and what to expect locally.
$135–$200/hr · Above national averageUpdated April 2026No annual cap
No age limit
Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado) covers ABA through the Children's HCBS Waiver and standard Medicaid.
Denver has seen rapid growth in its ABA provider base alongside the city's broader population boom. Colorado has one of the stronger state insurance mandates with no annual dollar cap and no age limit. Rates are in the above-average tier but remain more accessible than West Coast metros, making Denver a relatively good value among high-cost-of-living cities.
ABA therapy in Denver costs $135–$200 per hour, above the national average. For 20 hours per week, monthly costs run $10,800–$16,500 without insurance. Colorado has no annual dollar cap on commercial ABA insurance coverage and no age limit.
No. Colorado law (CRS § 10-16-104(1.4)) requires commercial insurers to cover ABA therapy with no annual dollar cap and no age limit. This is one of the stronger ABA insurance mandates in the Mountain West region.
Health First Colorado covers ABA for children with autism through standard Medicaid and the Children's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver. Families apply through their county department of social services. Waiver slots may have a waiting period depending on county availability.
Denver's ABA market has expanded significantly since 2018, driven by population growth and increased autism awareness. Several national ABA networks have entered the market, and local practices have scaled. Wait times for new clients, while still present, have shortened as provider capacity has grown.
Higglo works with ABA providers across Colorado on marketing, intake, and growth. Talk to our team about your program.
