How long does the surrogacy process take in California?

The entire surrogacy journey typically takes 12-18 months from initial consultation to birth, depending on various factors including matching time and medical procedures.

What are the California surrogacy requirements to become a surrogate?

To become a surrogate in California, you must be between 21-40 years old, have had at least one successful pregnancy, maintain a healthy BMI, be a non-smoker, and live in a stable environment.

How much does surrogacy cost in California?

Total surrogacy journey costs typically range from $150,000 to $230,000+, including agency fees ($42,500), surrogate compensation, medical expenses, legal fees, insurance, and escrow. Every dollar is accounted for before you commit.

How much compensation do surrogates receive?

At On Fertility Ground, surrogates set their own base compensation rate — your worth, your choice. We never negotiate your rate down. Additional benefits include maternity clothing ($750-$1,000), monthly expense allowance ($250/month), embryo transfer fees, and more.

Intended Parents

How Much Does Surrogacy Actually Cost for Intended Parents?

March 1, 2026 · 9 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

Surrogacy costs are one of the biggest barriers to entry — and one of the areas where the industry has historically been the least transparent. This post breaks down every major cost category.

Agency Fee: $35,000 - $65,000+

Paid in installments. Covers matching, case management, coordination, and support throughout the journey. The exact rate is confirmed during your intake conversation.

Surrogate Compensation: $60,000 - $100,000+

At OFG, surrogates set their own base rate within our industry-leading range. Total surrogate compensation (base + allowances + wellness) typically reaches $100,000 or more.

IVF and Medical: $15,000-$30,000+

Embryo creation, transfer procedures, medications, and prenatal care. Varies by clinic and whether egg donation is involved.

Legal: $10,000-$15,000

Two independent attorneys (one for each party), contract drafting and negotiation, and Pre-Birth Order filing.

Insurance: $15,000-$30,000

Surrogate health insurance policy or ACA plan with surrogacy coverage. Varies significantly by state and existing coverage.

Escrow Management: $1,500-$3,000

Third-party escrow company administration fees. The escrow account is fully funded after contract signing.

Total Range

A complete surrogacy journey in California typically costs $150,000 to $275,000. Every dollar is accounted for before you commit.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

Fee transparency is one of the things I am most committed to at OFG. The numbers in this article are accurate, include all cost categories, and do not hide anything in footnotes or "starting at" figures.

I know the total is significant. I would rather give you the real number clearly and help you plan for it than give you an artificially low entry point and surprise you later.

At your OFG consultation, we go through a complete personalized cost estimate line by line. That conversation is free, honest, and will give you a real picture of what your specific journey is likely to cost.

— Bree | info@onfertilityground.com

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're considering surrogacy as a surrogate or an intended parent, we're here to answer every question personally.

Become a Surrogate Intended Parent Inquiry

Email us at info@onfertilityground.com — We answer every inquiry personally.