One of the first questions many women have when considering surrogacy is, “How much do surrogates actually get paid?” It’s a great question — and an important one.
Surrogacy is a major commitment of time, energy, and love. That’s why surrogates are compensated generously — not just for carrying a pregnancy, but for the emotional, physical, and logistical effort they put into helping another family grow.
Here’s everything you need to know about how surrogate pay works in 2025 — and what to expect if you’re thinking about starting the journey.
Most first-time surrogates in the U.S. earn between $55,000 and $65,000, depending on the agency, location, and individual circumstances. Experienced surrogates (those who’ve carried for a family before) may earn up to $80,000 or more.
At Chesapeake Surrogacy, our compensation packages are designed to honor your time, health, and impact.
Surrogate pay typically includes a combination of base compensation, bonuses, and expense reimbursements. Here’s what that looks like in real numbers:
Base Compensation: $40,000 – $55,000+
Paid in monthly installments starting after heartbeat confirmation. This is your main compensation for the pregnancy itself.
Embryo Transfer Bonus: $1,000 – $2,000
You’ll receive a one-time payment following a successful embryo transfer.
Monthly Allowance: $200 – $300
Covers small expenses like parking, mileage, and local travel.
Maternity Clothing Allowance: $500 – $1,000
A stipend to update your wardrobe as your pregnancy progresses.
Multiples Bonus: $5,000+
If you’re carrying twins, you’ll receive additional compensation.
C-Section or Medical Procedure Bonus: $2,500+
Extra pay for certain procedures, such as a cesarean delivery.
Lost Wages & Childcare Reimbursement
If you miss work or need childcare for appointments, those costs are fully covered.
“I earned around $60,000 during my surrogacy journey. It helped me pay off my student loans, and I still had enough to take my kids on a dream vacation.”
Yes — in part. Surrogate compensation can vary depending on:
State laws: Some states are more surrogacy-friendly than others.
Cost of living: Higher compensation is often offered in areas with higher living expenses.
Experience level: Returning surrogates often receive higher base pay.
At Chesapeake Surrogacy, we work with surrogates primarily in Maryland, Virginia, and DC. We always tailor your package to meet your needs.
Health insurance for your surrogacy journey is completely covered by the intended parents — either through a surrogacy-friendly plan, or a special policy secured for your care.
You’ll never pay out-of-pocket for:
Fertility treatments
Prenatal visits
Lab work or ultrasounds
Delivery and postpartum recovery
Of course, the financial benefits are only one part of the picture. Most surrogates say the real reward is emotional — helping someone else build a family.
But it’s okay to want both. Wanting to make a difference and wanting to change your own future? That’s valid. That’s strong. That’s what surrogacy is all about.
“I loved being pregnant, and I wanted to help another family. The compensation gave me the freedom to go back to school. It was a win-win.”
We know that compensation matters — and you deserve transparency from the very beginning. That’s why we encourage you to reach out and have a conversation with our experienced intake manager.
Take our 2-minute pre-screening quiz to see if you qualify — and get one step closer to changing lives, including your own.
Let’s build something beautiful together.
Hawaii Surrogacy Center
Serving Hawaii & the Pacific Northwest
Surrogacy Center of Philadelphia
Serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey & Delaware
