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Fertility treatment can feel like a full-time job, with a price tag to match. Whether you’re just starting to explore IVF or already deep in the research rabbit hole, there’s one question that always hits hard: how much is this actually going to cost?
Spoiler: The average cost of one IVF cycle in the U.S. is around $15,000, and that’s not including medications, genetic testing, or storage fees. For many hopeful parents-to-be, it’s one of the biggest expenses they’ll ever face — right up there with a down payment on a house or a college education.
But here’s the good news: there are real ways to make IVF more affordable. Whether you're planning ahead or ready to get started, you deserve transparent info, financial support, and a plan that works for your life. Let’s get into it.
How much does IVF cost in the US?
Let’s talk numbers. One round of IVF typically costs between $15,000 and $20,000, but depending on where you live and what’s included, it could easily climb to $30,000 or more. That price usually covers the basics, like ultrasounds, monitoring appointments, the egg retrieval procedure, embryo creation (with ICSI if needed), embryo transfer, and your clinic and physician fees.
But many of the extra (and often essential) parts of treatment aren’t included in that sticker price. You’ll likely need to budget separately for medications — which can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per cycle — plus PGT-A genetic testing, which might add another $3,000 to $8,000. Embryo freezing and storage also come with additional costs, usually around $500 to $1,000 upfront, with ongoing yearly fees. If you’re using donor sperm or eggs, or need anesthesia and surgical center support, those charges can stack up fast.
And that’s just for one cycle — most people need more than one. In fact, according to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, for women less than 35 years old, the rate of live births per egg retrieval (typically IVF) is 53.5%. For ages 35-37, that drops to 39.8%, then from 38-40, it drops again to 25.6%; for 41-42, it’s 13.0%. For women older than 42, the success rate is 4.5%.
How much is 3 rounds of IVF?
IVF success rarely happens on the first try. In fact, research shows that cumulative success rates increase significantly after 3 full cycles. That means many families end up doing IVF more than once, and the costs multiply. If one round costs around $15,000–$20,000, that makes three rounds between $45,000–$60,000, not including medication or add-ons.
It’s no wonder IVF and family building are considered the fourth-largest lifetime expense for many Americans after mortgages, education, and car ownership, and success is not guaranteed.
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Why is IVF so expensive in the United States?
A lot of the high cost of IVF comes down to how healthcare is structured in the US, especially when it comes to fertility care, which is often considered elective or non-essential. As a result, many fertility clinics function more like private businesses, setting their own prices with little regulation.
Several factors drive these costs. There’s no standardized pricing across clinics, so what you pay can vary wildly depending on where you go. IVF also relies on cutting-edge lab equipment and highly skilled embryologists, both of which are expensive. The process involves frequent appointments, testing, and close monitoring, which adds up quickly. Medication costs can be significant too, and they’re not always covered by insurance. Then there are optional but often recommended add-ons, like genetic testing, egg freezing, or using donor sperm or eggs, which can increase your total even more.
While some countries help cover fertility treatment through national healthcare systems, the US largely doesn’t, leaving people to shoulder the financial burden on their own.
Which state has the cheapest IVF?
The cost of IVF can vary significantly depending on where you live in the U.S., and some states do offer more affordable options than others. Generally, states like New York, California, and Massachusetts tend to have higher price tags due to demand, clinic reputation, and cost of living. On the other hand, states like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Mississippi may offer lower-cost IVF options.
Is IVF covered by insurance in the USA?
Unfortunately, coverage is the exception, not the rule.
As of now, only 21 states have some form of fertility insurance mandate, and even then, the specifics vary wildly. Some plans cover diagnosis only, others include partial treatment, and many have age or marital status restrictions.
How do people afford IVF in the US?
Most people don’t have a spare $15,000 lying around. But that doesn’t mean IVF is out of reach. Here’s how many make it work:
- Fertility financing: Services like Future Family offer tailored IVF financing plans that can cover clinic procedures, medications, donor and genetic testing, and embryo freezing and storage. With monthly plans starting from $300–$475, plus low-interest rates and support from registered nurse Fertility Coaches, this option helps reduce financial stress. Future Family also offers access to Baby or Your Money Back — a first-of-its-kind IVF insurance product available for purchase through their clinic partners. Complete two IVF cycles, and if you don’t have a baby, Future Family will refund your investment up to your coverage limit.
- Employer benefits: A growing number of companies offer fertility benefits. Even if IVF isn’t covered by insurance, some employers provide fertility stipends, reimbursements, or access to discounted treatment networks — especially in industries like tech, media, and healthcare.
- Grants and scholarships: Several nonprofit organizations provide financial assistance in the form of IVF grants or treatment scholarships. While competitive, they’re worth exploring. Options include Baby Quest Foundation, The Hope for Fertility Foundation, and Bundled Blessings Fertility Fund.
- Crowdfunding or family support: Many people turn to GoFundMe, family contributions, or personal loans to help cover the cost of treatment. It can be uncomfortable to ask for help, but community support is often a lifeline. You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in accepting or asking for support to grow your family.
IVF financing can cover more than you think
When it comes to paying for IVF, traditional loans or out-of-pocket payments don’t always cut it, especially when you're navigating the emotional, physical, and logistical weight of treatment. That’s where fertility-specific financing stands out. These plans are built around the real needs of people going through IVF, offering far more than just money in the bank.
Future Family goes a step further by offering not just financial support, but hands-on care and guidance throughout the process — they get it. With access to Fertility Coaches (who are licensed nurses), you get personalized support for things like medication prep, appointment planning, and understanding your treatment timeline — something you won’t find with standard lenders. Their plans are designed to be flexible, transparent, and easy to apply for, with exclusive perks like bundled services and optional outcome-based guarantees.
Let’s make IVF costs less intimidating
Understanding IVF costs can feel like learning a new language filled with numbers, acronyms, and — let’s face it — stress. But you don’t have to decode it all on your own. With the right tools, support, and financing options, the path to parenthood can feel a lot more manageable — and a lot less overwhelming. Knowing what to expect, where to find help, and how to plan ahead can turn financial fear into informed action.
If you’re ready to take that next step, Future Family is here to help. Their personalized fertility financing plans, expert support, and flexible options are designed with your real-life needs in mind. Because no one should have to choose between growing their family and financial stability.
Rescripted fam: Get $99 off Future Family’s membership when you apply — just quote the code "RescriptedFriend".
Tassia O'Callaghan is an experienced content writer and strategist, having written about a vast range of topics from chemical regulations to parenting, for brands like Peanut App Ltd, Scary Mommy, Tally Workspace, and Fertility Mapper. She's an advocate for realistic sustainable living, supporting small businesses (author of A-Z of Marketing for Small Businesses), and equity across all walks of life. Follow her on LinkedIn or TikTok, or see more of her work on Authory or her website.