Lab Tests Cost With and Without Insurance - Updated

Lab testing without insurance can be a major expense. In general, three factors most influence how much you pay for a lab test:

1. Type of Test: Basic tests like blood glucose or cholesterol checks are generally more affordable than specialized tests like biopsies or genetic screenings.
2. Location: Costs vary significantly based on whether the test is done at a hospital, a standalone lab, or a clinic. Typically, hospitals charge higher rates than standalone labs.
3. Insurance: Health insurance coverage plays a big role in what you pay out of pocket. Depending on your plan, insurance may cover most of the cost or require you to meet a deductible first.

If you don’t have insurance or have a high deductible, Mira has member-only rates that can be two to three times lowerthan what you’d pay on your own. Learn more here.

How Much Do the Top 10 Most Popular Lab Tests Cost Without Insurance?

For those without insurance, common lab tests can range from $108 to $1,139, depending on the combination of tests and panels. If you need multiple tests, these costs may add up quickly. Keep in mind that blood test prices often depend on the facility, your health plan (if insured), and where you live in the U.S.

Below are out-of-pocket price ranges for popular tests if you don’t have insurance:

Blood Tests

What This Means for You: Even for basic blood tests like a CBC, prices can vary from $6 in certain states to over $35 in others, according to Fair Health and the Healthcare Bluebook. If you find these higher prices at one facility, consider calling around for a lower self-pay price at local clinics or independent labs.

Hormonal Tests

Note: Hormone tests can be more expensive in certain states due to higher overhead and limited lab availability. For example, a TSH test in California might cost $40 at an independent lab, while in New York, the same test can be upwards of $60 if done at a hospital lab, based on Sidecar Health’s cost estimator.

Infectious Disease Tests

Tip: If you suspect an STD or need screenings, many states have low-cost clinics. You can often get discounted or free testing at places like county health departments or Federally Qualified Health Centers. Check Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) for locations.

Specialized Tests

What This Means for You: Specialized labs often need advanced equipment or specific expertise. These tests are typically more expensive, especially if you pay cash at a hospital. If your doctor orders a specialized test, ask if a standalone lab—like Quest or LabCorp—offers it at a lower self-pay rate.