The rise in autism services across the U.S. is quietly growing within the healthcare real estate market. As more families seek access to specialized care, more providers and companies are entering this space.

The requirements for these spaces vary depending on their functionality, with therapy needs ranging from psychology to occupational therapy, which requires less infrastructure build-out. Many layouts resemble classic psychology practices and are closer to a typical office space, whereas occupational and behavioral therapy resembles a physical therapy location with larger group rooms.

A Rapidly Expanding Sector

The autism treatment sector, particularly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, is experiencing unprecedented growth. The U.S. ABA therapy market is estimated to be valued between $25 billion and $35 billion, growing at an annual rate of 10% to 13%, according to L.E.K. Consulting.

This surge is driven by increased awareness, earlier diagnoses, and increased adult diagnoses that were overlooked in the past. Expanded insurance coverage and more states providing reimbursements for these services have also expanded access to those with lower household incomes.

Impact on Medical Office Space

In markets like the Twin Cities, autism service providers are actively seeking medical office spaces to accommodate their expanding operations. These providers often prefer suburban locations for their accessibility and family-friendly environments. Consequently, traditional medical practices are finding themselves competing for a limited pool of available spaces, leading to a tightening of the medical office market.

Many providers are choosing to lease existing office buildings, since their relatively lower build-out costs can be attractive to capital-restrained landlords. While this can be an advantage, it can be a drawback when competing for a second-generation medical space.

Unlike most in the autism field, traditional healthcare providers value the existing infrastructure and can pay more in rent. In Washington Township, New Jersey, for example, 10,000 square feet in a medical office building was recently leased to an autism services provider. This space was previously a fitness center, rather than a typical second-generation space like the rest of the building; however, autism providers can convert it at a significantly lower cost.

Design Considerations

The unique needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) necessitate specialized designs for the interiors. Features such as sensory rooms, quiet zones, and flexible therapy spaces are becoming standard in new developments and retrofitted properties. According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, design strategies like acoustic insulation, indirect lighting, and muted color palettes can help reduce sensory overload and create a calm environment.

Similarly, IDS Kids highlights how thoughtful theming — such as nature-inspired murals or soothing textures — can improve patient experience and family retention. These design considerations not only enhance the therapeutic setting but also add long-term value for landlords and investors catering to this growing sector.

Investment and Conversion Opportunities

The growing demand for autism services is attracting significant investment interest. Private equity firms are increasingly investing in autism care providers, recognizing the sector’s growth potential. For example, Caravel Health, a provider with over 60 locations, was acquired by GTCR (a Chicago-based private equity firm) in 2024.

This sector also lends itself to the conversion of existing office, retail and flex properties much more than traditional medical. While parking requirements can be an issue, they are more similar to a therapy office or daycare drop-off, allowing them a broader pool of options. Owners of dated office and retail space have an opportunity for a profitable solution in an otherwise difficult market.

Autism services will continue to grow with providers expanding into more fields than traditional ABA therapy. As funding and awareness grow, this introduces a new and desirable group of users for owners.