Aug 6, 2025 - News
How much Californians pay to give birth
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The average total in-network cost of giving birth in California is about $20,400 for vaginal deliveries and $25,200 for C-sections, per data from national nonprofit FAIR Health.
The big picture: Nationwide, the average is about $15,200 for vaginal deliveries and $19,300 for C-sections.
By the numbers: For vaginal deliveries, Alaska has the highest average cost (about $29,200), followed by New York and New Jersey (both about $21,800).
- Alaska also has the highest average cost for C-sections ($39,500), with Maine ($28,800) and Vermont ($28,700) trailing.
How it works: The totals include delivery, ultrasounds and lab work and reflect costs paid by patients and insurance companies.