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Cost Guide · New York City, NY

ABA Therapy Cost in New York City

$160–$250+/hr · Above National Average

Hourly Rate

$160–$250+/hr

Monthly Est. (20 hrs/wk)

$13,000–$21,000/mo

vs. National Average

Above National Average

ABA Insurance Coverage in New York

Annual Cap

No annual cap

Age Coverage

Covers through age 21

Medicaid Coverage

NY Medicaid (Medicaid Managed Care) covers ABA for children with an autism diagnosis.

What to Expect in New York City

New York City has some of the highest ABA rates in the country, driven by a very high cost of living and competitive BCBA salaries. Waitlists at top Manhattan practices can run 6–12 months, though the outer boroughs often have faster availability. New York's insurance mandate has no annual dollar cap and covers individuals through age 21.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does ABA therapy cost in New York City?

ABA therapy in New York City typically costs $160–$250+ per hour. For 20 hours per week, families can expect to pay $13,000–$21,000 per month without insurance. With commercial insurance — which is mandated in NY with no annual cap — families generally pay only their plan's copay or coinsurance.

Does NY Medicaid cover ABA therapy?

Yes. New York Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Coverage is provided through Medicaid Managed Care plans. Families should contact their specific managed care plan to verify in-network providers and prior authorization requirements.

How long are ABA waitlists in New York City?

Waitlists at established ABA clinics in Manhattan and Brooklyn can run 6–12 months for new clients. Families willing to consider providers in Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island typically find shorter wait times. In-home ABA therapy may also have faster availability than center-based programs.

Does New York have a dollar limit on ABA insurance coverage?

No. New York's autism insurance mandate (Insurance Law § 3221(l)(6)) has no annual dollar cap on ABA therapy. Coverage is required for all fully-insured plans in the state through age 21. Self-funded employer plans are governed by federal ERISA law and may have different terms.

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Need help budgeting for ABA therapy?

Our team works with ABA providers across New York City and New York.