How Much Does Surrogacy Cost for Gay Couples?

Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment, and costs for gay couples tend to be on the higher end because you'll need an egg donor in addition to a gestational carrier. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect in Texas.

Total cost range

Gay couples pursuing surrogacy in Texas typically spend $110,000 to $160,000+. The biggest variables are your agency's fees, whether the first IVF cycle succeeds, and your egg donor choice.

Where your money goes

Surrogate compensation: $30,000–$60,000

This is the largest single cost. First-time surrogates earn $30,000–$45,000; experienced surrogates $40,000–$60,000+. Additional payments (monthly allowances, C-section fee, etc.) add to this.

Agency fees: $15,000–$30,000

Your agency coordinates the entire process. Full-service agencies charge $20,000–$30,000; referral-only agencies $15,000–$20,000.

Egg donor: $8,000–$15,000

This is the additional cost that gay couples face. Options include a fresh donor cycle ($10,000–$15,000) or frozen eggs from a bank ($5,000–$8,000, often more affordable).

IVF and medical: $15,000–$30,000

Includes the IVF cycle, medications, genetic testing, and embryo transfer. Additional cycles add $5,000–$15,000 each.

Legal fees: $5,000–$12,000

Covers the gestational agreement, court validation, and pre-birth order for both parents.

Insurance: $5,000–$20,000

If the surrogate's insurance doesn't cover surrogacy pregnancy, you'll need a surrogacy-specific policy.

How to reduce costs

• Use frozen eggs from a bank instead of a fresh donor cycle
• Choose a surrogate whose insurance covers surrogacy
• Check your employer's fertility benefits
• Apply for LGBT+ family building grants
• Ask agencies about payment plans

Is it worth it?

Surrogacy is expensive, but it's also the path that gives you a biological connection to your child and full legal parentage from day one. Many gay couples say the cost is the hardest part — and the most worthwhile investment they've ever made.