A complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered blood tests — used for annual physicals, pre-surgery screening, monitoring chronic conditions, and diagnosing fatigue, infection, or anemia. The cost varies dramatically based on where you go and your insurance situation.
What a CBC measures
A standard CBC evaluates the three main types of blood cells and several related metrics:
CBC cost by location and facility
| Region | Hospital Lab (self-pay) | Quest / Labcorp (self-pay) | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NY, NJ, MA, CT) | $218–$429 | $36–$72 | $0–$30 copay |
| West Coast (CA, WA, OR) | $196–$385 | $33–$66 | $0–$30 copay |
| Midwest (IL, OH, MI, MN) | $159–$313 | $27–$53 | $0–$25 copay |
| South (TX, FL, GA, NC) | $168–$330 | $28–$55 | $0–$25 copay |
| Rural / Small town | $143–$281 | $24–$47 | $0–$20 copay |
A CBC with differential adds a breakdown of white blood cell types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, etc.) and costs $5–$20 more. Doctors often order it when screening for infection, immune disorders, or certain cancers. If your order just says "CBC," you're getting the standard version.
What affects the price
Facility type
This is the single biggest factor. Hospital labs bill using "chargemaster" rates — inflated list prices designed for insurance negotiation. Uninsured patients pay these rates directly. Quest and Labcorp publish fixed self-pay pricing, typically 4–8× lower than hospital rates for a CBC.
Insurance status
If your deductible is met, a CBC is usually covered at a flat copay of $0–$30. If your deductible hasn't been met — common with HDHPs — you pay near full price until you hit your deductible. In that case, going to Quest with their self-pay rate is often cheaper than billing through insurance.
Geographic region
Lab costs in New York City or San Francisco run 30–45% higher than national averages. Rural areas tend to be 10–15% below average. The variation reflects differences in local cost of living, labor costs, and regional pricing norms.
Whether a draw fee applies
Some labs charge a separate "venipuncture" or specimen collection fee of $6–$20 on top of the test price. Quest and Labcorp typically include this in the published test price, but it's worth confirming when you call ahead.
Does fasting matter for a CBC?
No. A complete blood count does not require fasting. You can eat and drink normally before the test. If your doctor ordered other tests at the same time — such as a lipid panel or fasting glucose — those tests require fasting, but the CBC does not.
How to get a CBC for less
Go to Quest or Labcorp instead of the hospital lab. Ask your doctor to send the order there. It's the same test, same accuracy, and a fraction of the price.
Order it yourself. In most US states you can order a CBC without a doctor through Walk-In Lab or Ulta Lab Tests. Prices start around $28–$35 including the draw fee.
If you have an HDHP and haven't met your deductible, always ask the lab for their self-pay cash price. It's often lower than the rate they'd bill through your insurance before the deductible applies.
Check community health centers. Federally Qualified Health Centers offer sliding-scale pricing. If you're uninsured and low-income, you may pay very little. Find one at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Get a personalized CBC cost estimate
See exactly what a CBC costs in your city, with your insurance, at the facility you're considering.
Calculate My CBC Cost →Frequently asked questions
Is a CBC covered by insurance?
Yes, a CBC is covered by virtually all health insurance plans as a diagnostic test. If your deductible is met, you'll pay a copay of $0–$30. If ordered as part of a preventive annual physical, it may be covered at $0 regardless of deductible under ACA-compliant plans.
How long do CBC results take?
At Quest or Labcorp, most CBCs are resulted within 24 hours. Results are delivered to your ordering physician and often accessible through a patient portal the same day.
What's the CPT code for a CBC?
A standard CBC is CPT code 85027. A CBC with automated differential is CPT 85025. A CBC with manual differential is CPT 85007. These codes appear on your insurance explanation of benefits and are useful for price-checking with your insurer or lab before going.
Can I walk in without an appointment?
Most Quest and Labcorp locations accept walk-ins, though scheduling online is faster and avoids wait times. Some smaller locations are appointment-only — check their website before going.
What if my CBC results are abnormal?
This guide covers costs only. If you receive abnormal results, follow up with your doctor to discuss next steps. LabCost is not a medical service and cannot interpret test results.