Frequently Asked Questions:

Q) What is an Oxford House?

A) Oxford House is a self-run, self-supported recovery house program for individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction. Oxford Houses assure an alcohol and drug-free living environment. The first Oxford House was started in Silver Spring, Maryland in 1975.

Q) What is the philosophy behind Oxford House?


Q) How long can anyone live in an Oxford House?

A) A recovering individual can live in an Oxford House for as long as he or she does not drink alcohol, does not use drugs, and pays an equal share of the house expenses. the average stay is a little over a year, but many residents stay three, four, or more years. There is no pressure on anyone in good standing to leave.

Q) Who manages an Oxford House?

A) Oxford Houses are democratically self-run by the residents who elect officers to serve for terms of six months. In this respect, they are similar to a college fraternity or sorority. However, if a majority of residents believe that any member has relapsed into using alcohol or drugs, that person is immediately expelled. There are no resident counselors in an Oxford House.

Q) Why is Oxford House self-run?

A) Oxford Houses are self-run because (1) this permits individuals in recovery to learn responsibility, and (2) the cost associated with self-run housing permits extensive replication of houses. Each House is fully responsible for its own expenses and debts which will not and cannot be assumed by the National Organization of Oxford Houses.

 Q) How can one get into an Oxford House?


Q) How much sobriety or clean time is needed before an individual can be accepted into an Oxford House?

A) There is no time limit. Generally an individual comes into an Oxford House following a 28-day rehabilitation program or at least 10-day detoxification program.

Q) Can both men and women live in the same Oxford House?


Q) How did Oxford House get started?


Q) What is the success rate for Oxford House residents?





Q) How do I contact Oxford House, Inc. for more information?

Website: www.oxfordhouse.org

Telephone:  301-587-2916
Toll Free:      800-689-6411

Mailing Address:
Oxford House World Services
1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 300
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910