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The Real Cost of Surrogacy: What To Expect and How to Plan

Surrogacy costs can be complex — here’s everything you need to know to plan with confidence.

A surrogate mother relaxing on a couch while her friend smiles and rests her head on the surrogate's pregnant belly, sharing a joyful and supportive moment together.

What is Surrogacy, and Why Do Costs Vary?

Surrogacy is a life-changing process that allows individuals and couples to grow their families with the help of a surrogate — a woman who carries and delivers a baby on their behalf. This path to parenthood offers hope to those facing infertility, same-sex couples and single parents who are unable to carry a pregnancy.

But not all surrogacy journeys are the same — the type of surrogacy you choose impacts costs, legal requirements and medical procedures.

Surrogate mothers embark on a remarkable journey, sharing an intimate connection with the intended parents. They provide a precious gift — the gift of life — to those who dream of growing their families but face challenges in achieving this dream.

Types of Surrogacy and How They Impact Costs

There are two types of surrogacy — gestational and traditional — that differ in genetic connection, medical complexity and legal considerations. Here’s how they compare:

Aspect

Gestational Surrogacy

(Most Common)

Traditional Surrogacy

(Least Common)

Genetic Connection

Gestational Surrogacy

No, the surrogate is not genetically related to the baby

Traditional Surrogacy

Yes, the surrogate uses her own egg

Medical Process

Gestational Surrogacy

IVF is used to transfer an embryo created from the intended parents’ (or donors’) genetic material

Traditional Surrogacy

Artificial insemination, or IVF, is used, making the surrogate the biological mother

Legal Complexity

Gestational Surrogacy

More straightforward, as the surrogate has no parental rights

Traditional Surrogacy

More legally complicated since the surrogate is biologically related to the child

Cost

Gestational Surrogacy

Higher due to IVF, legal processes and medical screenings

Traditional Surrogacy

May be lower, but legal costs can increase due to parental rights concerns

Because of its clear legal framework and success rates, gestational surrogacy is the preferred method in most cases.

Why Do Surrogacy Costs Vary?

The cost of surrogacy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Costs fluctuate based on multiple factors, including:

Location: Surrogacy laws and medical costs vary by state, influencing overall expenses.
Surrogate Compensation: Payment depends on experience, location and medical history.
Medical Procedures: IVF, embryo transfers and prenatal care all contribute to costs.
Legal and Agency Fees: The level of support you choose impacts total expenses.

Curious about surrogacy in your state? Select a location below to learn more.

California

Learn about costs, laws & agency support in CA.

Learn More

New York

What to expect when choosing surrogacy in NY.

Learn More

Texas

Find out about surrogacy costs & laws in TX.

Learn More

Washington

State-specific costs & legal insights for WA.

Learn More

Oregon

Breakdown of surrogacy costs in Oregon.

Learn More

Utah

Understanding surrogacy expenses in Utah.

Learn More

What’s the Price Tag? Breaking Down Surrogacy Costs

Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment, but understanding exactly where your money goes can help intended parents plan confidently. Below is a detailed cost breakdown based on Joy of Life’s surrogacy program.

It’s important to note that surrogacy costs vary nationwide. Factors such as state laws, medical expenses, insurance coverage and agency services can all influence the final cost. While some agencies may have different pricing structures, this guide provides a transparent look at what intended parents can expect when working with Joy of Life.

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A smiling pregnant woman wearing a light denim shirt and an orange headband, standing against a plain background with one hand on her belly and the other gesturing to the side.

The True Breakdown: What You’re Paying For

Category

Estimated Cost

What’s Included

Match Facilitation

Estimated Cost

$20,000 – $22,000

What’s Included

Screening, background checks and psychological evaluations for the surrogate. Coordination between intended parents and the gestational carrier (GC).

Journey

Estimated Cost

$20,000 – $22,000

What’s Included

Support throughout the process, including medication reminders, insurance applications and legal guidance.

Surrogate Compensation

Estimated Cost

$60,000 – $85,000

What’s Included

Base pay for the surrogate, paid in installments during pregnancy.

Surrogate Bonuses

Estimated Cost

$9,000 – $17,000

What’s Included

Additional payments before and after pregnancy confirmation, based on medical milestones.

Medical Expenses

Estimated Cost

$15,000 – $26,000

What’s Included

Health insurance for the gestational carrier during pregnancy, including 12 months of premiums, copays and deductibles.

Legal & Administrative Fees

Estimated Cost

$6,000 – $7,000

What’s Included

Legal contracts, parental rights paperwork and escrow account management.

Third-Party Professional Fees

Estimated Cost

$5,000 – 20,000+

What’s Included

Life insurance, psychological evaluations, newborn nursing and translation services (if needed).

Estimated Total Cost

Estimated Cost

$150,000 – $160,000

What’s Included

Total estimated costs for a complete surrogacy journey with Joy of Life.

Because of its clear legal framework and success rates, gestational surrogacy is the preferred method in most cases.

Close-up of a pregnant woman in a pink top cradling her belly, with a smiling couple standing in the background, symbolizing a surrogacy relationship.

Additional Expenses To Consider

While the above costs cover the essentials, there are additional expenses that may arise depending on medical needs and personal preferences:

  • Twin Pregnancy Bonus: Surrogates carrying multiples may receive additional compensation.
  • Travel and Mileage Reimbursement: If the surrogate must travel for medical appointments.
  • Therapy for Surrogate: Counseling during and after the pregnancy.
  • Delivery Costs: Any unexpected medical expenses during labor and birth.
  • Cord Blood and Stem Cell Banking: Optional but recommended for long-term health benefits.
  • Newborn Insurance and Pediatric Care: Coverage and doctor visits immediately after birth.
  • Breast Milk Shipping: If intended parents request breast milk after delivery.

Paying for Surrogacy: What Are Your Options?

Surrogacy is a major financial commitment, and most intended parents don’t pay everything upfront. Instead, payments are structured over time to align with key milestones in the journey.

At Joy of Life, we offer a clear and structured payment process, ensuring transparency and predictability throughout. This approach allows parents to plan their finances while keeping track of expenses in a secure escrow account.

Wondering how payments are handled? Below, we break down when and how each payment is made:

First

Deposit: $50,000
Before the matching process begins

Second

Deposit: $50,000
When legal contracts are signed

Third

Deposit: $50,000
Once the surrogate is medically cleared and graduates from IVF care

Final

Deposit: Adjusted Amount
At 24 weeks of pregnancy, based on projected remaining costs

• Payments are managed through an escrow account, ensuring transparency.
• Unused funds are refunded within six months after case completion.
• Parents can check their escrow balance and transactions at any time.

Need Help Planning? Explore Your Financial Options

Surrogacy costs can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to make the process more manageable:

✔ Payment Plans & Financing Options
✔ Surrogacy Grants & Financial Assistance
✔ Insurance Coverage for Medical Costs

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FAQs: Everything You’ve Ever Asked About Surrogacy Costs

Why does surrogacy cost so much?

Surrogacy involves multiple professionals and services, including medical care, legal contracts, agency support and surrogate compensation. Costs also cover insurance, psychological screenings and medical procedures like IVF to ensure a safe and ethical journey.

Why do surrogacy costs vary by state?

Surrogacy costs fluctuate based on state laws, insurance policies and medical expenses. States with surrogate-friendly laws (like California) may have higher costs due to demand, while other states may have lower costs but stricter legal requirements.

Are there hidden fees in the surrogacy process?

At Joy of Life, we prioritize transparency. While we provide a clear cost breakdown, additional costs may arise, such as extra medical procedures, surrogate travel expenses or newborn care costs. We encourage all intended parents to discuss potential unexpected expenses upfront.

Do I have to pay for surrogacy all at once?

No! Payments are made in structured deposits throughout the process to reduce financial strain. Funds are securely held in an escrow account and released at specific milestones, such as matching, legal contract signing and pregnancy confirmation.

Can I finance my surrogacy journey?

Yes! There are several financing options, including payment plans, fertility loans and grants for intended parents. Some insurance policies may also cover parts of the surrogacy process.

Does insurance cover any part of surrogacy?

It depends on your insurance provider and policy. Some plans may cover fertility treatments, medical screenings or pregnancy care for the surrogate. However, most intended parents need a separate insurance plan for their surrogate to ensure proper coverage.

How much do surrogates get paid?

Surrogate compensation varies based on experience, location and agency policies. At Joy of Life, surrogates typically receive $60,000 – $85,000, plus additional bonuses for milestones like embryo transfer and pregnancy confirmation.

What happens if my surrogate needs extra medical care?

Intended parents are responsible for covering all pregnancy-related medical costs, including any unexpected complications. This is why comprehensive insurance is a crucial part of surrogacy planning.

Can I save money by choosing independent surrogacy instead of an agency?

While independent surrogacy may reduce agency fees, it requires intended parents to handle legal contracts, medical coordination and surrogate screening on their own, which can lead to higher risks and unexpected costs. Agencies like Joy of Life simplify the process and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Final Takeaways: What You Need To Know Before You Start

Surrogacy is a big commitment, but with the right information and support, you can navigate the journey with confidence. Here’s a quick recap of the key things to keep in mind

Surrogacy Costs at a Glance

✔ The average cost of surrogacy ranges from $150,000 – $160,000 with Joy of Life.
✔ Costs vary based on location, agency, medical needs and surrogate compensation.
✔ Payments are structured over time rather than paid all at once.

What’s Included in the Cost?

✔ Surrogate compensation ($60,000 – $85,000) + bonuses.
✔ Medical expenses (IVF, embryo transfer, prenatal care).
✔ Legal & administrative fees for contracts and parental rights.
✔ Agency support & journey management for a seamless process.

How do Payments Work?

✔ Payments happen in structured deposits throughout the process.
✔ Funds are held in a secure escrow account for transparency.
✔ Unused funds are refunded after case completion.

What Else Should You Plan For?

✔ Some unexpected costs may arise, such as medical emergencies or travel expenses.
✔ Financing options exist, including payment plans, grants and insurance coverage.
✔ Choosing a reputable agency like Joy of Life ensures clarity and peace of mind.

Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Parent

Now that you have a clearer understanding of surrogacy costs, you can take the next step at your own pace. When you’re ready, we’re here to provide guidance, support and a seamless experience on your path to parenthood.

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