4 hours ago - Health

The steep cost of surrogacy

Surrogacy in the U.S. can cost from $100,000 to more than $250,000.

Why it matters: High costs and limited insurance coverage make surrogacy inaccessible for many people seeking to build families.

By the numbers: According to data compiled by fertility benefits company Carrot, average costs for surrogacy include:

Surrogacy compensation through an agency: $30,000- $65,000 (doesn't include additional expenses like travel).
Agency fees: $15,000- $45,000 (could include legal and other services).
Legal fees: $15,000-$20,000 (includes representation for all parties).
IVF and other medical expenses: $25,000- $50,000 (more if you do multiple cycles and transfers).

Between the lines: Coverage for surrogacy is improving, but major gaps remain.

Employers reported a 39% increase in adoption or surrogacy benefits offered year over year, according to a 2026 Maven report.
When insurance doesn't cover surrogacy, prospective parents often purchase specific policies for surrogacy that can cost another $30,000, per data collected by RESOLVE: The National Infertility and Family Building Association.

Options for reducing costs are limited, especially if you're unable to negotiate every step of your process.

Working with a known surrogate — a friend or family member — can eliminate fees, though it comes with its own emotional and legal complexities.
Some grant and assistance programs exist, but they don't serve all intended parents.

Go deeper: Why one woman wants to be a surrogate.