Lab tests
COVID-19 PCR test, CDC test panel cost in California
COVID-19 PCR test, CDC test panel is a lab test. Many labs sell tests directly to the public for a flat cash price, often far below hospital prices.
Typical cash price
In California
From 58 hospital and 0 clinic prices in California.
Nationwide typical: $58.76 (most listed prices $20–$161).
Cheapest in California
- $8
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Clovis Community Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $8
Doctor fees are billed separately. +2 more in this system at the same published price.
Source: Community Behavioral Health Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $26.46
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Colusa Regional Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $35.92
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Valley Presbyterian Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $47.73
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Scripps Green Hospital price file · checked Oct 2026 - $47.73
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas price file · checked Oct 2026 - $47.73
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla price file · checked Oct 2026 - $47.73
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista price file · checked Oct 2026 - $47.73
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego price file · checked Oct 2026 - $57
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Seton Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026 - $57
Doctor fees are billed separately.
Source: Seton Medical Center Coastside price file · checked Oct 2026 - $58.76
Doctor fees are billed separately. +15 more in this system at the same published price. Location not independently confirmed.
Source: Baldwin Park Medical Center price file · checked Oct 2026
Common questions
Do I need a doctor's order?
In most states, direct-to-consumer labs can sell many tests without a separate doctor visit. Some states and some tests still require an order.
Is the blood draw included?
Usually yes for lab stores and booking sites. Hospitals sometimes bill the draw (venipuncture) separately.
Why are prices so different?
Each hospital and clinic sets its own cash price. Hospitals publish prices because federal rules require it; clinics and booking sites set prices to compete. The same service can cost several times more at one place than at another nearby.
Can I pay cash if I have insurance?
Yes. You can choose to self-pay. A cash price is often lower than what you would pay before meeting your deductible. Cash payments may not count toward your deductible, so check with your plan. Our cash vs. insurance tool can help you decide.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
If you are uninsured or paying cash, providers must give you a Good Faith Estimate of the cost on request. If your final bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it.