Surrogacy Industry Trends and Statistics in the United States, 2025
Market Growth
The surrogacy market in the U.S. has experienced significant growth, driven by increasing infertility rates, advancements in reproductive technology, and changing social perceptions. Globally, according to Surrogacy Global Market Report 2025, the market is projected to grow from from $16.01 billion in 2024 to $19.42 billion in 2025 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.3%, and by 2029 it will reach $37.5 billion.
Economic Pressures and Costs
Surrogacy in the U.S. is expensive, with average costs ranging between $100,000 and $140,000 as of 2025. In some cases, costs can exceed $250,000 depending on specific circumstances[3]. Rising surrogate compensation has further contributed to these expenses; base compensation for surrogates increased from $45,000 in 2019 to $61,000 by 2024[4].
Demand and Supply Dynamics
Post-COVID-19, surrogacy demand remained high but faced challenges due to economic pressures like inflation and rising interest rates. These factors have made it harder for intended parents to afford surrogacy, causing a decline in demand despite an increase in the availability of qualified surrogates[4]. Match times for surrogates have decreased significantly—from 6.8 months in 2020 to 2.5 months by 2023—indicating a surplus of surrogates[4].
Gestational Surrogacy Statistics
Gestational surrogacy has seen increased acceptance and usage in the U.S., with medical advancements enabling more families to pursue this option. Between 1999 and 2013, gestational carrier cycles rose from 727 to 3,432 annually. During this period, these cycles resulted in 13,380 deliveries and the birth of 18,400 infants,[5] of which:
- 64% were single births,
- 34% were twins,
- 2% were triplets or more[5].
Legal and Ethical Complexities
Surrogacy laws vary widely across U.S. states, leading to differing rights for surrogate mothers, children born through surrogacy, and intended parents[6]. Ethical debates surrounding surrogacy persist, including concerns about commercialization and the rights of all parties involved[2].
“Personhood” laws in about one-third of states complicate IVF and surrogacy arrangements by granting fetuses legal rights. These laws vary widely based on political and religious views[7].
Cross-state arrangements are increasingly common as intended parents navigate differing state laws[7].
Same-sex couples face additional barriers due to restrictive laws in certain states. They are twice as likely as heterosexual couples to encounter legal challenges during the surrogacy process[7].
Future Prospects
While economic challenges may limit short-term growth in the U.S., advancements in reproductive technology and greater awareness are expected to sustain long-term interest in surrogacy as a family-building option[4][7].
