As the scientific community continues to unlock the mysteries of the human body, more and more people are turning to DNA tests to learn about their health and ancestry. While the price of a DNA test can vary depending on the type of test and the company you choose, this guide will give you an idea of how much you can expect to pay for a DNA test.
Overview of DNA Testing
Depending on the type and complexity, a DNA test price may vary between $99 to more than $2000.
In some cases, additional testing may be required, increasing the cost.
In some states, insurance covers a portion of certain types of genetic tests.
From the date of sample collection, the results may be ready within a few days to a few weeks.
The turnaround time is much quicker if the genetic test is crucial for timely diagnosis (such as prenatal tests).
How Much Is A DNA Test: Popular Types
Different types of genetic tests investigate different things and are priced accordingly.
Let’s have a look at some important types of genetic tests.
| Type of Test | Average Cost |
| Ancestry Test (direct-to-consumer) | $59-$119 |
| Health and Wellness Assessment (direct-to-consumer) | $100-$640 Xcode Life’s Special Price: starting from $30 |
| Paternity Test | At home: $130-$200 Legal: $300-$500 |
| Molecular Genetic Tests | $100-$2000 |
Ancestry Test
Genetic ancestry tests, also called genealogy tests, aim to analyze the shared genetic regions between individuals to establish their relationship.
Ancestry testing allows one to learn their ethnicity and information about their ancestors.
It is the cheapest DNA testing option with most companies and can range from as low as $59 to around $119.
- Cheapest ancestry genetic test: MyHeritage DNA kit at $36* (sale price)
- Best in the market (gold standard): AncestryDNA kit at $49* (sale price)
*as of 06th November 2024
Also Read: How To Login To AncestryDNA + Health Reports At 55% Off!
Health Risk and Wellness Assessment Tests
Genetic tests can now help healthcare professionals and other consumers understand the risk of developing a health condition.
This enables personalized preventive measures and optimal treatment.
Further, owing to the rising popularity of nutritional supplements, genetic companies are introducing lifestyle and wellness tests (such as nutrition or fitness genetic tests) to promote better health.
Most companies price these tests at $100 to $600.
Many companies also combine health and ancestry tests and price them around $200.
- Cheapest health and wellness assessment: Xcode Life reports starting from $30
- Most information covered: Xcode Life ~850 traits
- Other popular options: Genomelink (starting from $39), SelfDecode (starting from $199)
Did You Know? You can use your existing DNA data from ancestry genetic tests to get Xcode Life's reports within 24 hours!
Paternity Tests
DNA paternity tests are one of the most common types of DNA tests.
The individual and the alleged father get a genetic test, and a specialist compares the shared DNA regions between them to establish paternity.
At-home DNA paternity tests cost around $130-$200, and legal paternity tests can cost up to $500.
Molecular Genetic Tests
Molecular tests are mostly used for diagnostic purposes.
They look for abnormal changes in one or more genes
Molecular genetic tests employ DNA sequencing, a process that determines the order of the 4 letters (A, T, G, and C) in the human genetic code.
Costs vary depending on the type of test: single variant, targeted gene, gene panel, whole-exome, and whole-genome.
Comparing The Prices Of DTC Genetic Testing Companies
| Company | Average Test Cost** |
| Xcode Life (DNA kit not provided) | Single tests: $30-$50 Bundles: $110-$149 (850 traits) (Sale coming soon: $69 - $99) |
| 23andMe | $119-$999 ($69-$499) |
| AncestryDNA | $59-$119 (sale price $39-$49) |
| MyHeritage DNA | $89 (sale price $36) |
| Family Tree DNA | $238-$687 (sale price $169-507) |
| Living DNA | $124-$225 (sale price $90-$179) + shipping |
| Genomelink | $39-$199 |
| SelfDecode | $318-$417 (with optional add-ons ranging from $49-$249) |
| CircleDNA | HK2,299-HK2,499 |
| Nebula Genomics | $249-$899 |
Can I Check My DNA For Free?
Some direct-to-consumer companies, like Sequencing, offer free services that allow you to upload your existing DNA data to get some basic information for free.
Does Insurance Cover DNA Test?
Many insurance plans cover most clinical genetic tests recommended by physicians. However, direct-to-consumer tests have poor insurance coverage, and only a few companies/insurance plans offer reimbursement.
How Much Is A Dog DNA Test?
Dog tests help the owners know the specific breeds to allow better care.
Despite the rising popularity of dog DNA testing, only a few companies offer quality services.
The tests can cost anywhere from $60 to $200, based on the knowledge you’re seeking and how deep you want the analysis to be.
How Much Is A DNA Test While Pregnant?
Pregnancy DNA tests cost depending on the nature of the test.
The most common types of pregnancy tests include
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) - $1,350 - $1,750
- Amniocentesis - $1000 - $7000 (insurance coverage available)
- Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) - $1300 - $4800 (insurance coverage available)
FAQs About DNA Test Cost
How Much Is A Full DNA Test?
The cost of a full DNA test, or a whole-genome sequencing test, can vary widely, ranging from $400 to over $1,000, depending on the depth of analysis and the provider.
Can I Get My DNA Tested For Free?
Some research studies offer free DNA testing if you qualify as a participant, but free consumer testing options are rare and usually limited.
The results can also be too technical and difficult to interpret and understand.
Does Insurance Cover Genetic Testing?
Insurance may cover genetic testing if it is deemed medically necessary, such as for hereditary disease screening, but typically not for recreational or ancestry tests.
Is Genetic Testing Worth It?
Genetic testing can be highly valuable for those seeking insights into health risks, ancestry, or personalized wellness.
Tests for specific hereditary conditions can help with early intervention and personalized health strategies.
However, it is important to understand the difference between clinical and consumer genetic testing.
If you are looking for a diagnosis or a confirmatory yes or no, clinical testing should be your choice.
If your goal is to optimize your health based on certain genetic tendencies, consumer genetic testing can be a very useful tool.
What Are The Cons Of DNA Testing?
DNA testing has potential drawbacks, such as privacy concerns over data storage and sharing.
Unexpected results can also reveal sensitive information, such as unknown family relationships or health risks, which may be emotionally challenging.
Some tests can be costly, and insurance coverage is generally limited to medically necessary genetic tests, not personal interest or recreational tests.
Further, improper interpretation of results or following recommendations in the report without doctor consultation can harm your health.
Can I Order My Own Genetic Testing?
Yes, direct-to-consumer companies allow individuals to order their own genetic tests for health, wellness, or ancestry without needing a doctor’s referral.
Summary: How Much Is A DNA Test?
The pricing of DNA tests varies depending on the type, use, and the company offering the genetic test.
Basic ancestry tests cost around $99, while health and wellness ones can cost as much as $450.
Molecular diagnostic tests can cost anywhere from $100-$1000.
