Top States for Autism Support in 2025

Autism support looks different in every state, and there are many factors that determine the “best” place for raising an autistic child. While some families don’t have the flexibility to move—because of jobs, extended family, or financial considerations—others may be weighing relocation primarily for autism support. If that’s you, it’s helpful to know which states consistently rank high in access to therapies, funding, and community support.

With that in mind, here are the top states most frequently recommended for families seeking strong autism support systems. These are not listed in any particular order, since each one has unique strengths that may be more or less important depending on your family’s needs.

How to Decide Which State Is Right for Your Family

Choosing the “best” state for autism support isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. While some states stand out for their strong systems, what matters most is how well those supports align with your family’s specific needs.

When I was searching for the right place to raise my son, I knew state services were important. But I also needed somewhere we could spend plenty of time outdoors. Being in nature helps my son settle, relax, and connect without all the pressures of structured settings. I wanted the simple joy of taking walks and bike rides together. Just as important to me was the general public attitude toward neurodiversity—I wanted to live in a community where acceptance and inclusion are part of everyday life, not just policy on paper.

Some questions to consider:

• Do you value early intervention programs most, or long-term adult autism support?
• Is insurance coverage the biggest factor, or are you prioritizing school-based autism support?
• Does your family thrive in a state with more outdoor opportunities and inclusive communities?
• What’s the cost of living like, and how does that impact access to services?

Ultimately, the right state is where your child can access the therapies, education, and community resources they need—while your whole family feels supported and included. Before making a decision, explore local parent groups, advocacy organizations, and school districts. Sometimes the strength of a local network can be just as important as statewide policies. (Autism Speaks provides a helpful state-by-state resource guide where you can look up services near you.)

If you’re just starting this journey, understanding services beyond your state can also help. I’ve written more about how Regional Centers work in California, which gives a glimpse into how some states structure their autism support systems.

Top 5 States for Autism Support in the U.S.

1. Massachusetts – The Gold Standard

• Why it stands out:
  • Mandatory insurance coverage for autism treatments (including ABA) without age or spending caps.
  • Robust Early Intervention programs.
  • Access to elite institutions like Harvard and Boston Children’s Hospital.
  • Public attitude: Generally supportive; families report a strong culture of inclusion and neurodiversity awareness.
  • Insurance/eligibility: Children qualify for state-funded programs regardless of parental income through Early Intervention and MassHealth for certain services.
• Resources:
  • New England Center for Children (NECC): Residential school with intensive ABA programming for ages 3–22.
  • Autism support networks: Autism Alliance of MetroWest, AANE (Advocacy, parent support).

2. California

• Why it stands out:
  • State mandates insurance coverage for behavioral health treatments (ABA, speech, OT) for all ages.
  • Regional Center system (21 centers statewide) coordinates assessments and services for 350,000+ individuals.
  • Public attitude: Urban areas generally supportive; smaller towns may have less awareness.
  • Insurance/eligibility: Children can access Regional Center services regardless of parental income; Medi-Cal may cover additional therapies.
• Resources:
  • Regional Centers: Case management, referrals, and state funding support.
  • Research hubs: UCLA, UC Davis MIND Institute for treatment and innovation.

3. New Jersey

• Why it stands out:
  • Early identification rate: 1 in 22 children diagnosed.
  • Strong insurance mandates, specialized schools, and advocacy organizations.
  • Public attitude: High awareness and inclusion culture; strong parent networks.
  • Insurance/eligibility: State insurance programs generally available; families may also leverage NJ FamilyCare or Medicaid.
• Resources:
  • Alpine Learning Group: ABA-focused school for ages 3–21.
  • Higher education hubs: Rutgers’ CARES, Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.

4. Pennsylvania

• Why it stands out:
  • Act 62 insurance coverage: up to $38,000/year for autism therapy.
  • Robust Early Intervention and accredited Centers of Excellence.
  • Public attitude: Moderate awareness; urban centers like Pittsburgh have more resources and inclusive programs.
  • Insurance/eligibility: State programs accessible; early intervention services often independent of parental income.
• Resources:
  • Early Start Denver Model, PLAY Project: Support for young children.
  • Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh: ABA, therapy, and educational programs.

5. Colorado

• Why it stands out:
  • Inclusive policies: insurance covers autism therapies with no age limit.
  • Strong Early Intervention and family support programs.
  • Public attitude: Generally positive; urban areas have more awareness and resources than rural regions.
  • Insurance/eligibility: State programs and financial support accessible regardless of parental income in many cases.
• Resources:
  • SEED Program: School-based behavioral interventions.
  • Family Support Services: Financial assistance for therapy, respite, or adaptive equipment.

Comparison at a Glance

State	Insurance Coverage	Early Intervention	Public Attitude	Notable Resources
Massachusetts	No age/spending caps	Strong, income not a barrier	Highly supportive	NECC, Autism Alliance, AANE
California	ABA, speech, OT mandated	Coordinated via Regional Centers	Urban areas very inclusive	Regional Centers, UC Davis MIND, UCLA
New Jersey	Strong mandates	High early ID rate (1 in 22)	Strong awareness and networks	Alpine Learning Group, Rutgers CARES
Pennsylvania	Act 62: $38k/year cap	Strong, income not a barrier	Moderate; better in cities	Children’s Institute, ESDM, PLAY Project
Colorado	No age limit for coverage	Strong family-centered services	Positive, urban stronger	SEED Program, Family Support Services

Final Thoughts

Every family’s journey with autism is unique, and what makes a state “the best” depends on your priorities. If you want cutting-edge medical resources, Massachusetts or California might be ideal. If strong parent networks and early identification matter most, New Jersey stands out. Families seeking affordability and robust state-funded supports may look to Pennsylvania or Colorado.

The most important thing is to find a place where your child can thrive and where your family feels supported—because raising an autistic child is not just about services, but about community, belonging, and building a life where your child’s strengths are celebrated.