What is the Average Cost of Surrogacy in the US
Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another individual or couple, known as the intended parents. This process involves the surrogate mother becoming pregnant through assisted reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). In this blog post, we will dig into the average cost of surrogacy in the USA and how you can manage it.
Surrogacy in the USA- An Overview
Surrogacy is a complex and emotionally charged process, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience for intended parents. By understanding the average cost of surrogacy in the USA and the various factors that influence the expenses, intended parents can make informed decisions and embark on their journey to parenthood with realistic expectations and proper preparation.
Additional Resources:
Everything You Need To Know (in 2023)
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost Using Family Member
Can My Insurance Provider Pay My Surrogacy Costs?
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in the USA ( 2023)?
Surrogacy Costs Breakdown for Intended Parents
Contact us for free surrogacy consultation:
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Surrogacy Laws in the USA
In the United States, surrogacy laws and regulations vary from state to state. Some states have established legal frameworks that govern surrogacy arrangements, while others have limited or no specific laws addressing the practice.
It is crucial for intended parents to familiarize themselves with the surrogacy laws in their state of residence and the state where the surrogacy will take place.
| USA State | Surrogacy Legality | Additional Notes |
| California | Fully permitted, enforceable agreements | · Very favorable. |
| · Multiple court cases have upheld both surrogacy agreements | ||
| · Pre-birth orders are easily obtainable | ||
| Connecticut | Fully permitted, enforceable agreements | · Friendly to gestational surrogacy. |
| · Pre-birth orders given to intended parents regardless of relationship or genetic connection. | ||
| District of Columbia | Fully permitted after 48 hours post-birth | · Court parentage orders issued after 48 hours post-birth |
| · Commercial surrogacy agreements upheld by statute. | ||
| · Law defines parentage based on ART procedures. | ||
| Delaware | Fully permitted, valid and enforceable | · Explicit laws support surrogacy agreements and pre-birth orders. |
| Maine | Fully permitted, enforceable agreements | · Pre-birth orders supported by statute with some restrictions. |
| Maryland | Fully permitted, surrogacy-friendly | · Intended parents to obtain pre-birth and post-birth orders |
| Nevada | Fully permitted for compensation | · Very favorable. |
| · Explicit laws support surrogacy agreements and pre-birth orders. | ||
| New Hampshire | Fully permitted for compensation | · Surrogacy-friendly state |
| · Surrogacy agreements upheld | ||
| · Pre-birth orders supported with specific guidelines. | ||
| New Jersey | Legal recognition for gestational surrogacy | · Legal and enforceable agreements since May 2018 |
| · Very friendly Surrogacy State | ||
| · Intended Parents can easily obtain pre-birth orders | ||
| New York | Paid surrogacy agreements legalized | Surrogacy agreements are legal and pre-birth orders can be issued as of 15th Feb, 2021 if the intended parents are residents of the state. |
| Oregon | Fully permitted, enforceable contracts | Pre-birth orders recognized in other states |
| Pennsylvania | Valid and enforceable agreements | Surrogacy-friendly state |
| Rhode Island | Fully permitted for compensation | Surrogacy-friendly state |
| Alabama | Allowed with guidelines | Post-birth adoption may be easier |
| Washington | Surrogacy-friendly state | · Very friendly to gestational surrogacy. |
| · Pre-birth orders allowed without genetic connection | ||
| Wyoming | Unclear, laws inconsistent by county | Proceed with caution |
| Arizona | Contracts are unenforceable, but practiced | Pre-birth orders granted, proceed with caution |
| Indiana | Contracts are unenforceable, but practiced | · Surrogacy contracts are prohibited |
| · Unfriendly U.S. states for surrogacy. | ||
| Nebraska | Legal but contracts void and unenforceable | Uncompensated surrogacy only, proceed with caution |
| Virginia | Allowed with major stipulations | Pre-birth orders with strict criteria, proceed cautiously |
| Louisiana | Allowed but with restrictions | No commercial surrogacy, proceed with caution |
| Michigan | Paid surrogacy is prohibited; contracts subject to penalties | Proceed with extreme caution |
| Alabama | Not very friendly | Supports pre-birth orders only for married couples. |
| Alaska | Not very friendly | Courts have been generally supportive. No explicit support for pre-birth orders. |
| Arkansas | Not very friendly | Surrogacy agreements are valid for both heterosexual and same-sex married couples. |
| Colorado | No laws | No laws, but courts have been generally supportive. |
| Florida | Legal | Gestational surrogacy agreements are permitted only between legally married couples and only after the baby is born. |
| Georgia | No laws | No laws, but courts have been generally supportive. |
| Hawaii | No laws | No supportive laws and pre-birth orders are not issued. |
| Illinois | Legal | One of the most Surrogacy-Friendly states. |
| Kansas | No laws | · No laws, but courts have been generally supportive. Pre-birth orders may be granted on a case-by-case basis. |
| Kentucky | No laws | · No laws, but courts have been generally supportive. |
| · Pre-birth orders may be granted to married couples. | ||
| Tennessee | Legal | · Local law defines surrogacy agreements, as supportive when both intended parents are genetically related to the baby. |
| · If an egg donor is used, the surrogate must waive her parental rights. | ||
| Vermont | No laws | · No law governing surrogacy. |
| · Courts do not support pre-birth orders, but post-birth orders may be issued. | ||
| Virginia | Legal | · Gestational surrogacy agreements permitted subject to a wide array of complicated restrictions. |
| · Post-birth orders issued. |
Types of Surrogacy
There are two primary types of surrogacy:
Traditional Surrogacy: In this type, the surrogate mother is artificially inseminated with the intended father’s sperm or a donor’s sperm. The surrogate is genetically related to the child.
Gestational Surrogacy: This involves the transfer of an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donor’s eggs and sperm into the surrogate’s uterus. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Surrogacy
Geographic Location
The cost of surrogacy can vary significantly based on the geographic location where the process takes place. States with more favorable surrogacy laws and a higher concentration of fertility clinics and surrogacy agencies may have higher associated costs.
Type of Surrogacy (Traditional vs. Gestational)
The type of surrogacy arrangement can impact the overall cost. Gestational surrogacy, which involves the use of IVF and egg donation, tends to be more expensive than traditional surrogacy.
Agency Fees
Many intended parents choose to work with a surrogacy agency, which provides a range of services, including matching with a surrogate, coordinating legal and medical processes, and offering emotional support. Agency fees can be substantial and contribute significantly to the total cost of surrogacy.
Legal Fees
Surrogacy arrangements involve complex legal contracts and agreements to protect the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Legal fees cover the costs of drafting and reviewing these documents, as well as any necessary court proceedings.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses constitute a significant portion of the surrogacy cost. These include fertility treatments, such as IVF or IUI, prenatal care, delivery costs, and any potential complications during pregnancy or childbirth.
Surrogate Compensation
Surrogates are typically compensated for their time, effort, and the physical and emotional demands of carrying a child for another family. The compensation amount can vary based on factors such as the surrogate’s experience, location, and the specific surrogacy arrangement.
Insurance Costs
Intended parents may need to purchase additional insurance policies or riders to ensure coverage for the surrogate and the child during and after pregnancy. These insurance costs can add to the overall surrogacy expenses.
Travel and Accommodation Expenses
In some cases, intended parents and surrogates may need to travel for medical appointments or the delivery, incurring additional expenses for transportation, lodging, and meals.
Breaking Down the Average Cost of Surrogacy in the USA
- Agency Fees (Range and Average)
Agency fees can range from $15,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the services provided and the agency’s location. The average agency fee is approximately $25,000.
- Legal Fees (Range and Average)
Legal fees for surrogacy arrangements typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, with an average cost of around $8,000.
- Medical Expenses (Range and Average)
Medical expenses can vary widely based on the specific medical procedures required, the number of IVF cycles needed, and any potential complications. On average, medical expenses can range from $20,000 to $60,000, with an average cost of around $35,000.
- Surrogate Compensation (Range and Average)
Surrogate compensation can range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on factors such as the surrogate’s experience, the state where the surrogacy takes place, and any additional compensation for multiple or cesarean deliveries. The average surrogate compensation is approximately $30,000.
- Insurance Costs (Range and Average)
Insurance costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the coverage needed and the specific insurance policies purchased. The average insurance cost is around $10,000.
- Travel and Accommodation Expenses (Range and Average)
Travel and accommodation expenses can vary significantly based on the distance between the intended parents and the surrogate, as well as the number of trips required. These expenses can range from a few thousand dollars to $10,000 or more, with an average cost of around $5,000.
Sure, here is a table outlining the itemized costs associated with surrogacy in the USA:
| Cost Item | Range | Average Surrogacy Cost |
| Agency Fees | $15,000 – $40,000+ | $25,000 |
| Legal Fees | $5,000 – $15,000 | $8,000 |
| Medical Expenses | $20,000 – $60,000 | $35,000 |
| Surrogate Compensation | $20,000 – $50,000+ | $30,000 |
| Insurance Costs | $5,000 – $20,000+ | $10,000 |
| Travel & Accommodation | $2,000 – $10,000+ | $5,000 |
| Total Average Cost | $113,000 |
Notes:
- Agency Fees: Cover services provided by a surrogacy agency, such as matching with surrogates, coordinating processes, and support.
- Legal Fees: Include drafting and reviewing contracts, agreements, and any necessary court proceedings.
- Medical Expenses: Cover fertility treatments (IVF/IUI), prenatal care, delivery costs, and potential complications.
- Surrogate Compensation: Remuneration for the surrogate’s time, effort, and physical/emotional demands.
- Insurance Costs: Additional insurance policies or riders for the surrogate and child during/after pregnancy.
- Travel & Accommodation: Expenses for travel, lodging, and meals related to medical appointments and delivery.
The total average cost of surrogacy in the USA is around $113,000, but this can vary significantly based on factors like geographic location, type of surrogacy arrangement, and individual circumstances. It’s essential to budget and plan accordingly, explore cost-saving strategies, and seek financial assistance programs when necessary.
State-by-State Comparison for Surrogacy in the USA
California
California is often considered one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the USA. The average cost of surrogacy in California ranges from $100,000 to $200,000 or more, with higher costs typically associated with major urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Texas
Texas has favourable surrogacy laws and is a popular destination for intended parents. The average cost of surrogacy in Texas ranges from $80,000 to $150,000, with lower costs generally found in smaller cities or rural areas.
Florida
Florida is another state with surrogacy-friendly laws, attracting intended parents from around the country. The average cost of surrogacy in Florida ranges from $90,000 to $170,000, with higher costs in major cities like Miami or Orlando.
Illinois
Illinois has a well-established surrogacy industry, particularly in the Chicago area. The average cost of surrogacy in Illinois ranges from $80,000 to $160,000, with higher costs associated with urban areas like Chicago.
New York
New York recently passed legislation legalizing and regulating gestational surrogacy, making it an attractive destination for intended parents. The average cost of surrogacy in New York is expected to range from $120,000 to $200,000 or more, with higher costs in New York City.
Cost-Saving Strategies to afford surrogacy in the USA
- Working with Independent Surrogates
While surrogacy agencies provide valuable services, working directly with an independent surrogate can potentially reduce costs by eliminating agency fees. However, this approach requires careful legal guidance and increased responsibility for coordinating the various aspects of the surrogacy process.
- Utilizing Surrogacy-Friendly States
Choosing a state with favourable surrogacy laws and a well-established surrogacy industry can help minimize legal fees and potentially reduce other associated costs.
- Exploring Employer-Sponsored Benefits
Some employers offer fertility and surrogacy benefits as part of their employee healthcare plans. Intended parents should explore their employer’s policies and any potential coverage.
Surrogacy costs resources worldwide:
Top 4 cheapest countries for surrogacy
Best Countries for Surrogacy 2023- Top International Destinations
Risks of international surrogacy
Global International Surrogacy Options
Surrogacy In Mexico-Everything Intended Parents Need To Know
Cheapest Country For Gay Surrogacy- Colombia
Importance of Budgeting and Planning
Due to the significant financial commitment involved, it is crucial for intended parents to carefully budget and plan for the costs associated with surrogacy. Exploring cost-saving strategies, seeking financial assistance programs, and understanding the potential expenses in different states can help ensure a smoother and more financially manageable surrogacy journey.
Even if you have tried all and surrogacy costs in America are out of reach, it is worth looking for international surrogacy countries where the cost is almost half of the US cost with the explicit legal framework.
Here is the table of the cheapest countries for surrogacy:
| Country | Regulation & Organization | Who is allowed to participate | Surrogacy Cost | Legal Assurance |
| Colombia | Altruistic | Singles, gay couples, hetero couples | Affordable
$70,000 |
Reliable |
| Mexico | Altruistic | Singles, gay couples, hetero couples | Affordable
$70,000 to $80,000 |
Reliable |
| USA | Commercial | Singles, gay couples, hetero couples | Costly
$150,000+ |
Strong |
| Ukraine | Commercial | Hetero couples | Affordable
$60,000 |
Strong |
| Georgia | Commercial | Hetero couples | Affordable
$60,000 |
Strong
|
| Greece | Altruistic | Hetero couples and single women | Affordable
$80,000 |
Strong |
Pros and Cons of Doing Surrogacy in the USA
While the USA is a popular destination for surrogacy arrangements, it’s essential to weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages before embarking on this journey.
Pros:
- Established Legal Framework: Many states in the USA have well-defined legal frameworks governing surrogacy, providing clarity and protection for all parties involved. This can help ensure a smoother and more secure process.
- High-Quality Medical Care: The USA is home to some of the world’s leading fertility clinics and medical professionals, offering access to advanced reproductive technologies and high-quality prenatal and postnatal care.
- Surrogacy-Friendly Environment: Several states, such as California, Texas, and Florida, have developed a surrogacy-friendly culture, with experienced professionals and a supportive community for intended parents.
- Comprehensive Support Services: Surrogacy agencies in the USA often provide comprehensive support services, including matching with surrogates, coordinating legal and medical processes, and offering emotional support throughout the journey.
Cons:
- High Surrogacy Price: As outlined in the table above, the average cost of surrogacy in the USA can be substantial, ranging from $80,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on various factors.
- Varying State Laws: While some states have established surrogacy laws, others have limited or no specific regulations, creating a patchwork of legal environments that can be challenging to navigate.
- Limited Access for Certain Groups: In some states, surrogacy may be restricted or unavailable for certain groups, such as single parents or same-sex couples, based on existing laws or agency policies.
- Potential Legal Complexities: Despite existing legal frameworks, surrogacy arrangements can still involve complex legal issues, particularly when it comes to establishing parentage rights and navigating interstate or international surrogacy agreements.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue surrogacy in the USA should be based on a careful consideration of individual circumstances, legal and financial implications, and personal preferences. Seeking professional guidance from experienced surrogacy professionals and legal experts can help intended parents make informed choices and navigate the process smoothly.
| Pros of surrogacy in the USA | Cons for surrogacy in the USA |
| Established Legal Framework | High Costs |
| High-Quality Medical Care | Varying State Laws |
| Surrogacy-Friendly Environment | Limited Access for Certain Groups |
| Comprehensive Support Services | Potential Legal Complexities |
Conclusion
The average cost of surrogacy in the USA can range from $80,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on various factors such as the geographic location, type of surrogacy arrangement, agency fees, legal fees, medical expenses, surrogate compensation, insurance costs, and travel expenses. While the financial investment can be substantial, surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for those unable to conceive or carry a child themselves.
If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy Consulting services globally, check out the rest of our website at IVF Conceptions. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.
Our team has over 14 years of experience facilitating surrogacy arrangements, egg donation, and serving as an advocacy resource for infertile couples and LGBTQ individuals seeking to build families. Till now we have helped and supported thousands of the intended parents with their family-building journey, and we can help you as well. Happy to share the references from the past IPs if needed.
If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at Complete Surrogacy. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.
Get in touch for FREE SURROGACY CONSULTING:
Mobile: +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Email: neelam@ivfconceptions.com
Web: www.completesurrogacy.com
Resources used:
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/fertility/how-to-afford-surrogacy