Quick Summary
Surrogacy costs in the United States in 2025 range from $100,000 to $250,000, depending on medical, legal, and geographic factors. Families typically spend the most on surrogate compensation, IVF, legal fees, and insurance.
At the Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI), Parham Zar and his team help intended parents understand each cost early in the process, from agency coordination to maternity insurance, so they can move forward with financial clarity and emotional confidence.
EDSI works with trusted partners such as SeedTrust Escrow to manage funds securely and ensure transparency throughout the journey.
Why Transparency Matters in Surrogacy Costs
Surrogacy in the United States continues to grow as one of the most trusted family-building options for hopeful parents in 2025. At the Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI), Parham Zar and his team guide families through every stage with transparent pricing and secure financial oversight. By partnering with SeedTrust Escrow, EDSI ensures that every payment is protected and clearly documented. Costs vary across states, with California offering comprehensive legal protections, Texas providing more affordable agency options, and Illinois maintaining strong medical and legal standards. EDSI surrogacy support helps families across the U.S. plan confidently with transparent pricing, whether they are beginning their first journey or returning for a sibling experience.
Table of Contents
Average Cost of Surrogacy in 2025
Is Surrogacy Covered by Insurance?
Surrogacy Cost in 2025: Summary Breakdown
Total Estimated Cost: $100,000 to $200,000
- Surrogate Compensation:
First-time: $40,000–$60,000
Experienced: $60,000–$80,000+
Additional fees for travel, C-section, multiples, or lost wages - Medical and IVF Expenses:
IVF cycle: $15,000–$25,000
Embryo transfer and medications: $5,000–$10,000
Monitoring, labs, and pregnancy care: $10,000+ - Agency and Coordination Fees:
$25,000–$60,000
Includes screening, matching, coordination, and legal referrals - Legal Fees:
Carrier agreement: $3,000–$6,000
Surrogate counsel: $1,500+
Pre- or post-birth order: $2,500–$6,000 - Insurance and Travel:
Maternity insurance (if needed): $8,000–$25,000
Travel and accommodations: $5,000+
Want help calculating your surrogacy budget?
Book a Free ConsultationIf you’re considering surrogacy, one of the first questions on your mind is likely: how much does it actually cost? In 2025, the total cost of a surrogacy journey in the United States typically ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, depending on where you live, which professionals you work with, and whether you already have embryos. This guide breaks it all down — from surrogate compensation and agency fees to legal costs, insurance, and unexpected extras — so you can plan with confidence and avoid surprises.
What Is the Average Cost of Surrogacy in the U.S.?
The average cost of surrogacy in the U.S. ranges from $100,000 to $200,000 depending on location, medical circumstances, surrogate experience, and legal requirements. California, New York, and Illinois are among the most expensive states, while states like Texas and Florida tend to be more affordable.
Breakdown of Surrogacy Costs (2025)
1. Surrogate Compensation
- First-time surrogate: $60,000 to $75,000
- Experienced surrogate: $85,000 to $110,000+
- Additional allowances for C-section, twins, maternity clothing, wellness, travel, and lost wages
2. Medical and IVF Expenses
- IVF cycle: $15,000 to $25,000
- Embryo transfer and medications: $5,000 to $10,000
- Monitoring, labs, and prenatal care: $10,000+
3. Agency and Coordination Fees
- Agency coordination: $40,000 to $60,000
- Includes psychological screening, surrogate matching, coordination, and legal referrals
4. Legal Fees
- Gestational carrier agreement: $3,000 to $6,000
- Independent counsel for surrogate: $1,500+
- Pre-birth or post-birth order: $2,500 to $6,000
5. Insurance and Travel
- Maternity policy (if required): $8,000 to $30,000
- Travel and accommodations: $5,000+
All financial transactions are managed through independent escrow partners such as SeedTrust Escrow to ensure transparency, accountability, and legal compliance throughout the process.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in California (2025)?
California remains one of the most supportive and experienced states for surrogacy but also one of the costliest. Total journey costs in California range from $130,000 to $200,000, reflecting higher surrogate compensation, insurance coverage, and cost of living.
Families often choose California for its strong legal protections, pre-birth orders, and established surrogacy framework — giving both intended parents and surrogates unmatched confidence and security.
Are There Hidden Surrogacy Expenses?
Most costs are predictable when planned early, but intended parents should be aware of possible add-ons:
- Additional embryo transfers
- Insurance deductible gaps
- Bed rest or lost wage reimbursements
- Postpartum care or lactation support
- Travel for delivery in a surrogacy-friendly state
Working with an experienced agency like Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) helps ensure all contingencies are budgeted before contracts are signed.
Is Surrogacy Covered by Insurance in 2025?
Most intended parents must secure a specialized maternity policy for their surrogate. While a few employer plans may contribute to fertility-related coverage, most do not extend to gestational carriers.
Specialized surrogacy insurance plans typically cost $8,000 to $30,000, depending on coverage type, surrogate health history, and delivery location.
Final Thoughts: Budgeting for the True Cost of Surrogacy
Understanding how much surrogacy costs helps intended parents make informed decisions and plan realistically. While the numbers may seem high, every dollar supports a complex, deeply personal process. From legal protection to medical care to the surrogate herself, each line item contributes to bringing your child into the world safely.
At EDSI, we walk you through each step with transparency, support, and clarity — so nothing is unexpected.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
https://www.asrm.org/topics/topics-index/surrogacy/CDC ART Success Rates
https://www.cdc.gov/art/Resolve: National Infertility Association
https://resolve.org/- Learn more about how to become a surrogate.
- Start your journey with a free consultation for intended parents.
- Discover the full surrogacy process step-by-step guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy Costs in 2025
The total cost of surrogacy in the United States in 2025 typically ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, depending on medical, legal, and location factors. States such as California and New York tend to be higher, while Texas and Florida are often more affordable.
California offers strong legal protections and extensive agency and medical experience. Higher surrogate compensation and insurance costs also contribute to the total, which can reach $130,000 to $200,000.
The largest costs include surrogate compensation, IVF and medical care, legal fees, and maternity insurance. Each is essential to ensure the surrogate’s care, legal protection, and a smooth birth process.
Some additional costs may arise for embryo transfers, insurance deductibles, travel, postpartum support, or bed rest reimbursements. Working with a trusted agency such as Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) helps plan for these early.
Most intended parents need a specialized maternity policy for their surrogate. Some employer-based health plans offer partial coverage, but most families purchase surrogacy-specific insurance ranging from $8,000 to $30,000.
EDSI partners with SeedTrust Escrow to protect and manage client funds. Every payment and reimbursement is securely tracked to ensure full financial transparency throughout the surrogacy journey.
