Does anyone have an estimate on how much homebirth costs?

[melissel]

At this point, my options are homebirth with insurance paying 70-80%, or a hospital birth with midwives I like for the low, low price of only $10. I really, really want the homebirth, but I'm estimating that after our deductible and our portion, we're looking at around $3k out of pocket, which we really cannot afford.

Does anyone have an idea of what a homebirth costs? Of course, we are in NJ, so I'll add about 20% to whatever estimate anyone might have, LOL.

TIA

[mom2threenurslings]

I'm in CT and, if I remember correctly, homebirth would be about $2500 here. I'm planning a homebirth, but it will hopefully be with midwives who take insurance. I should find out tomorrow for sure if I'll be using that practice...I have an interview at 3PM...I'm SO excited!

[~Megan~]

I think my mw charges $2600 or $2000 if you pay before the total before the last month.

I think that you get what you pay for and you would be more likely to regret not putting the money forth for the birth you want than saving the money.

[tsfairy]

Most of the midwives here charge around $3600, with a 30% discount for paying in full by the end of the 36th week -- so around $2400 (well except for one notable exception who charged $4500 with no discount!)...

I'm in Texas.

[melissel]

I just found out my deductible is only $500, not $1,000, hooray! So I'd have to pay that and then 30% of the rest. If the costs are really that low (I was guessing more like $5k or $6k) I think we might be able to swing it! I still have to get DH on board, but my mom is totally behind me, which was a shocker since my whole life I've heard her tell such horror stories about her births.

I'm going to put in a call tomorrow to the nearest homebirth practice (45 minutes, blech) and see what their fees are. I don't have to make any decisions until 27 weeks, so I can see how my husband's business is going. Unfortunately, if it keeps going the way it's been, even $1,500 out of pocket won't be doable. But that wouldn't be the end of the world either, I really do like my current midwives and wouldn't be heartbroken if I had to go with them.

Thanks everyone!

[mommomrebecca]

My homebirth was $1200, but my mw also had a sliding scale and that was the high end. I'm in Oregon. I ended up having to go to the hospital afterwards though and that cost an additional $500 for our deductible. Honestly, don't even consider the cost, you'll find a way AND have a lifetime of stories and good memories.

[AllyRae]

I just met with some midwives today and their homebirth fees are $2600 not including supplies.

[milk4two]

I'm in Utah and paid around $1500 for the pricier package that includes the birthing pool and towel service. My MW also has a plan where you can help out with office work (filing, etc) and knock some off of the price, as well as getting a discount if you refer others.

[redsonya]

My midwife charged $4500. The insurance paid about $2500. Assume is will cost about $2000-$3000 out of pocket.

I don't know if I want another homebirth this time around, though, but right now I'm faced with a similar decision. I'm in a HMO this time around so I'd have to pay the full price out of pocket for a homebirth.

Most midwives are pretty cool about accepting payment bit by bit.

It's a VERY hard decision.

[NatureMama3]

mine was $1200 and the insurance paid it all. I'm in Oregon though.