Surrogacy opens the door to family for thousands of intended parents each year. Yet the question everyone asks is: What is the surrogacy cost in USA 2025? The answer is more complex than ever than ever. Costs range from $120,000 to $250,000 or more depending on your state, your surrogate’s circumstances, and whether you need donor eggs or additional medical care. This guide gives you the clearest breakdown available so you can plan without surprise.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in the USA 2025?
The total cost of gestational surrogacy in the USA is not a single fee. It is made up of several parts that add up differently depending on your state, your surrogate, and your journey. Here is a breakdown of the major categories with realistic 2025 ranges.
Agency Fees
Agencies manage screening, matching, coordination with clinics and attorneys, and provide ongoing emotional support. This is one of the largest upfront costs.
Average range: $40,000–$55,000
Surrogate Compensation in 2025 Explained
Surrogates receive a base fee along with allowances and reimbursements. Compensation depends on experience, location, and whether the pregnancy involves twins or medical complications.
Average surrogate pay USA 2025: $60,000–$110,000+
Medical Costs
This includes IVF, embryo transfers, monitoring, prenatal care, and delivery. Costs rise if multiple transfers are required or if NICU support is needed.
Average range: $25,000–$60,000
Legal Fees
Separate attorneys represent the surrogate and intended parents to draft contracts and establish parentage. Complex cases or international arrangements can increase costs.
Average range: $10,000–$20,000
Insurance
Not all surrogate insurance policies cover surrogacy. Many families must purchase a supplemental or new plan. This is often overlooked but essential.
Average range: $20,000–$30,000
Other Expenses
This category includes travel for embryo transfers or delivery, maternity clothing, childcare, lost wages for the surrogate, and postpartum support.
Average range: $5,000–$15,000
Surrogacy Costs by State in 2025
Understanding the surrogacy cost in USA 2025 means looking closely at regional differences. Each state has its own legal framework, insurance options, and average surrogate compensation, which can significantly change the total expense. Below we outline typical low and high estimates for some of the most common surrogacy-friendly states so intended parents can compare their options with clarity.
Hidden Surrogacy Fees Parents Overlook
Many intended parents overlook these expenses:
- Multiple IVF transfers if the first does not succeed
- Bed rest compensation for the surrogate
- Out-of-network hospital care
- NICU stays for premature infants
- Legal filings for international parents
These can add $10,000–$30,000 to your total.
Surrogate Compensation Explained
Surrogates receive base pay plus benefits. At EDSI, first-time surrogates in California can earn up to $110,000. Benefits often include:
- Maternity clothing allowance
- Monthly stipends
- Lost wages reimbursement
- C-section or multiples bonuses
- Breast milk pumping compensation
Legal Fees and Parentage Process
Legal protection ensures clarity for all parties. Fees vary by state:
- California: $5,000–$12,000
- Texas: $4,000–$10,000
- New York: $7,000–$15,000
Contracts cover medical decisions, compensation terms, and parentage rights.
Financing and Funding Options in 2025
Ways families pay for surrogacy include:
- Fertility grants such as BabyQuest and Journey to Parenthood
- Loans from specialized fertility lenders
- Agency payment plans
- Employer family-building benefits
- Crowdfunding campaigns
Budget Checklist
Here’s a timeline of typical payments for intended parents’ surrogacy budget:
- Agency deposit
- Surrogate screening
- Legal contracts
- IVF and surrogacy expenses
- Embryo transfer costs
- Monthly surrogate stipends
- Delivery expenses
- Post-delivery fees and insurance adjustments
Real Stories
California couple: $195,000 with one embryo transfer
International parents: $260,000 including travel and donor eggs
Texas parents: $165,000 with insurance covering part of delivery
Between $160,000 and $230,000+ depending on state and circumstances.
Yes. Extra transfers, insurance gaps, and legal filings can add tens of thousands.
Yes. Grants, loans, and agency payment plans are available.
Surrogacy is life-changing and expensive, but knowledge brings control. At Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI), we believe in complete transparency. Our team will walk you through costs step by step and help you plan realistically.
About the Author
Parham Zar is the Managing Director of Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) and a leading expert in third-party reproduction. With over 20 years of experience working alongside top fertility clinics and surrogacy professionals, he has guided hundreds of families through surrogacy and egg donation. Parham specializes in intended parent advocacy, surrogate care, and international family-building, and is recognized globally for his expertise in surrogacy law and ethics.
