At Joy of Life® Surrogacy, we think it’s important for you to know the cost of surrogacy, so you can plan ahead for your surrogacy journey without any financial surprises. We’ve put together this guide to tell you how much surrogate mother costs, along with all the fees surrounding surrogacy.

What Is the Overall Cost of Surrogacy?

The total cost of a surrogacy journey varies based on individual circumstances. Factors like whether you’re expecting twins or working with an experienced surrogate can affect the final price. On average, surrogacy costs range from $150,000 to over $160,000.

This estimate typically includes:

Surrogate compensation
Legal fees
Health insurance
Agency services
Fertility treatments
Travel expenses
Additional costs if using an egg donor

How Much Does a Surrogate Cost?

Within the total surrogacy budget, surrogate compensation is a significant component and varies based on experience and location.

Base Compensation

Experienced surrogates in California: $70,000
Experienced surrogates outside California: $55,000
First-time surrogates in California: $60,000
First-time surrogates outside California: $45,000

Additional Bonuses & Allowances

Surrogates may also receive up to $29,000 in additional compensation, which may include:

Bonuses based on employment status during the journey ($14,800–$17,800)
Monthly allowances (averaging $4,200)
Extra bonuses for prior surrogacy experience or Joy of Life® alumni status

All compensation is outlined in our Surrogate Benefit Packet, which ensures transparency for both the surrogate and the intended parents from the very beginning of the process.

What About the Rest of the Fees?

As you would expect, a large portion of your surrogacy budget goes towards surrogate mothers.

The other two-thirds of this cover the costs of the agency, which will find your surrogate, arrange her medical and psychological treatments, and liaison between the clinic, lawyers, and donor agency. They will handle the surrogate’s compensation, fertility treatments, and care during the pregnancy while keeping the intended parents educated and informed. Surrogate matching fees are also required.

Legal fees are an important part of the budget, the first service being the contract drafting, while the second one covers the cost of the pre-birth or post-birth order at the end of the second trimester.

For more information about our surrogate mothers or applying for parenthood, please reach out to Joy of Life® Surrogacy today!