Average cost of doula in San Francisco

[Schatzi]

After a quick search on the Internet it seems that most birthing doulas I've found cost around $1000, does anyone know if this is average? I only ask because a friend in Atlanta has hired a doula for $450 and while $1000 is a bit expensive for us it's also very important (I'm having a hospital birth but determined to say med-free). Thanks!

[memiles]

Prices for doulas fluctuate wildly throughout the country. I think it's tied to the average wages and cost of living in a particular area. In California and NYC, I don't think $1000 is unusual at all.