IVF Cost Estimator: What to Expect Based on Your Age and Location
While most IVF clinics publish a base price, the actual cost of treatment often depends on two major variables: your age and where you live. In this blog, we’ll break down typical IVF costs across the UK and explore how your age can influence pricing, treatment complexity, and the number of cycles you might need.
In London and the South East, IVF prices tend to be the highest. A standard IVF cycle can range from £6,000 to £8,000, with medication and add-ons pushing the total past £10,000. In contrast, clinics in the Midlands, North of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland typically charge £4,000 to £6,000 for the same procedures. This doesn’t mean lower-quality care, but rather reflects regional pricing differences, operational costs, and clinic competition.
Now let’s consider how age affects cost. Women under 35 often require lower medication doses and fewer cycles to achieve pregnancy, which reduces the total cost of IVF. A 32-year-old woman in Yorkshire might pay £5,000 to £6,000 for a successful first cycle. By contrast, a 41-year-old in London might pay £8,000 or more for each cycle — and may need two or three rounds, plus add-ons like ICSI or PGT-A.
Some clinics use a “personalised quote” model, which factors in hormone levels, BMI, and medical history to estimate medication doses. This can dramatically impact the total bill. For example, a higher AMH level may mean fewer drugs are needed, reducing costs by £500 to £1,000. Conversely, low ovarian reserve may lead to higher stimulation needs, increasing medication expenses.
Here’s a general cost range by age:
- Under 35: £5,000–£7,000 per cycle (higher success rate)
- Ages 35–39: £6,000–£8,000 per cycle (moderate success, moderate doses)
- Ages 40–42: £7,000–£10,000+ per cycle (lower success, may need multiple rounds)
- Over 43: £7,000–£12,000+, plus donor egg options often discussed
Other geographic cost variations include:
- London clinics: higher base prices, premium services
- Scotland: some public funding available, especially in NHS Lothian and Greater Glasgow
- Northern Ireland: limited NHS funding, lower private fees
- Wales: fewer private clinics, slightly lower average pricing
Real-life example: Hannah, 36, from Manchester, completed IVF at ÂŁ5,800 for one cycle including medication. Her friend Katie, aged 40, paid over ÂŁ11,000 in London after two full cycles and add-ons. Both were treated privately, but the age and regional differences had a major impact on total spend.
IVF is not a fixed-cost treatment. Where you live and how old you are can greatly influence the financial picture. Always ask your clinic for detailed estimates that reflect your personal profile — and compare those with national averages to understand your expected range.
