Having a baby in California comes with a massive medical bill.
According to new data, the state is currently one of the most expensive places in the country to welcome a newborn.
The data from Fair Health reveals that the median in-network cost of a vaginal delivery in the U.S. is $15,728, up 3.6% from $15,178 last year.
The national median for a cesarean section is $19,911, up 3.2% from $19,292 the year prior.
California residents, however, are paying significantly more than the national median.
Breaking down California’s delivery costs
Families in the Golden State face medical bills that far exceed the national averages.
- Vaginal delivery (in-network): The median cost in California is $20,777.85.
- C-section (in-network): The median cost in California is $25,448.68.
For context, a standard vaginal delivery in California costs roughly $5,049 more than the U.S. national median.
What the price tag actually covers
These totals include both inpatient and outpatient facility and professional costs. The listed services cover the delivery itself, which encompasses the labor and delivery room, room and board, pharmacy, nursery, and medical and surgical supplies.
The benchmark totals also include anesthesia, fetal nonstress tests, ultrasounds, lab work, and a breast pump.
How California compares to other states
While California’s median costs are notably steep, they are not the highest in the nation.
- Most expensive: Alaska has the highest median in-network costs for both vaginal deliveries ($30,585.29) and C-sections ($42,043.52).
- Least expensive: Alabama has the lowest median costs for both procedures at $10,275.40 and $11,280.97, respectively.
