Families in Houston typically see hourly rates of $105–$170/hr. Here's how that compares nationally, what insurance covers in Texas, and what to expect locally.
$105–$170/hr · Near national averageUpdated April 2026No annual cap
No age limit
Texas Medicaid covers ABA through STAR Health (foster care) and STAR Kids (children with disabilities).
Houston offers some of the most affordable ABA therapy among major US metros. Texas has one of the most family-friendly ABA insurance mandates in the country — no annual dollar cap and no age limit. The city has a growing provider base driven by high autism diagnosis rates, and TRICARE is widely accepted due to the large military population in the region.
ABA therapy in Houston costs $105–$170 per hour, close to the national average. For 20 hours per week, monthly costs run $8,500–$14,000 without insurance. Texas's uncapped insurance mandate means most commercially insured families pay only their plan's copay.
Yes. Texas law (Insurance Code § 1355.015) requires insurers to cover ABA therapy with no annual dollar cap and no age limit. This is one of the strongest mandates in the US. Note: self-funded employer plans under ERISA are exempt from state mandates.
Yes. Texas Medicaid covers ABA through the STAR Health program (for children in foster care) and the STAR Kids program (for children with disabilities). Families must obtain a qualifying autism diagnosis and prior authorization from their managed care plan.
Houston ABA rates ($105–$170/hr) are consistent with Dallas ($110–$170/hr) and Austin ($110–$175/hr). San Antonio tends to run slightly lower ($105–$165/hr). All Texas cities benefit from the same uncapped state insurance mandate.
Higglo works with ABA providers across Texas on marketing, intake, and growth. Talk to our team about your program.
