Storing sperm for future use is an option that many men consider for various reasons. The most common reasons are prior to medical treatment like chemotherapy that may impact fertility, for use with assisted reproductive technology (ART) like IVF, or for peace of mind. Sperm storage can be done for both short and long term periods. When considering long term storage, a common question is how much does it cost to store sperm for 10 years?
Average cost to store sperm for 10 years
The average cost to store sperm for 10 years ranges from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on the sperm bank. However, costs can vary widely based on location, storage method, and quantity stored. Some key factors that impact the 10 year storage cost include:
- One-time collection and processing fees – Ranges from $200-$500
- Initial storage fees – Ranges from $200-$600 for the first year
- Annual storage fees – Ranges from $250-$500 per year for years 2-10
- Quantity stored – Storing multiple vials over several donations costs more
- Storage method – Cryogenic vs non-cryogenic, different facilities have different methods
- Shipping and handling – If storing at an offsite facility, shipping fees apply
- Additional services – Some banks provide additional testing or other services for an added fee
As you can see, fees are incurred at multiple steps when banking sperm, including the initial collection, processing and first year storage, followed by ongoing storage fees for each additional year. While fees can vary widely, most sperm banks advertise introductory storage plans from $200-$500 for the first year, with additional annual storage fees from $250-$500.
Breakdown of estimated costs for 10 years
Based on average sperm bank rates, here is an overview of the estimated costs for storing sperm for 10 years:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation and screening | $100-$200 |
| Specimen collection and processing | $300 |
| First year storage | $400 |
| Annual storage fees – Years 2-10 (9 years at $350 per year) | $3,150 |
| Additional services (testing, shipping, etc) | $200 |
| Total for 10 years | $4,150 |
As shown, when you factor in all the upfront and ongoing costs, the total for storing sperm for 10 years typically ranges from $4,000-$6,000. This estimate can serve as a baseline, but your actual costs may be higher or lower depending on your specific clinic.
What impacts the annual storage fees?
For long term sperm storage, the annual fees often have the biggest impact on the total 10 year cost. Some key factors that influence annual storage fees include:
- Clinic location – Storage fees tend to be higher at clinics in major metro areas compared to smaller cities.
- Storage method – Cryogenic storage is more expensive than non-cryogenic storage methods.
- Quantity stored – Storing multiple vials or samples costs more than a single vial.
- Additional services – Added testing, specialized storage, and shipping services may increase annual fees.
When researching sperm banks, pay close attention to what is included in the annual fees. Some clinics offer “capped” rates where the annual fee remains the same year after year. Others increase fees 3-5% each year or charge higher rates for added services.
Cryogenic vs non-cryogenic storage
One of the biggest factors in storage fees is whether the clinic uses cryogenic or non-cryogenic storage methods. Cryogenic storage involves preserving samples in liquid nitrogen at -196°C. This is the gold standard long term method. Non-cryogenic methods use refrigerator or freezer storage at -80°C.
Because of the sophisticated storage equipment and extreme temperatures, cryogenic storage costs about $100-$300 more per year compared to non-cryogenic methods. However, cryogenic storage better preserves sperm quality over decades.
Storage duration and quantity stored
Some sperm banks offer discounted annual rates for customers committing to longer initial storage periods, such as 10 or 20 years. Storing multiple vials or samples also increases annual costs due to needing more storage space.
When estimating costs, consider how much sperm you need to store now and may need in the future. This will impact your upfront collection and processing fees, as well as ongoing annual fees.
Estimated costs at specific sperm banks
To give you a better idea of real-world pricing, here are the estimated 10 year storage costs at some top sperm banks:
California Cryobank
- Collection and processing fees: $460
- First year storage: $325
- Annual fee: $275
- Estimated 10 year cost: $3,685
Xytex Sperm Bank
- Collection and processing fees: $395
- First year storage: $390
- Annual fee: $348
- Estimated 10 year cost: $4,263
Seattle Sperm Bank
- Collection and processing fees: $575
- First year storage: $345
- Annual fee: $325
- Estimated 10 year cost: $4,075
As you can see, even among top sperm banks the total 10 year costs can vary by several hundred dollars. Be sure to get detailed estimates from any clinics you are considering.
Can you pay yearly instead of upfront?
Many sperm banks give you the option to either pre-pay for the full storage term upfront, or pay yearly. Paying for everything upfront is usually cheaper overall, but paying yearly gives you more flexibility.
For example, at some sperm banks you might pay $3,000 upfront for 10 years. But paying yearly would cost around $350 per year, totaling $3,500 over 10 years. The upside is you can cancel anytime if your circumstances change.
If unsure whether you want to store long term, starting with yearly payments keeps your options open. Some clinics let you switch to a long term contract later to lock in savings.
Are there any hidden fees to watch out for?
When estimating your 10 year sperm storage costs, watch out for these commonly overlooked fees:
- Enrollment fee – Some banks charge this in addition to the initial consultation.
- Tank rental fees – If not storing onsite, added for renting your tank space.
- Shipping and handling – For transporting to/from offsite storage facilities.
- Withdrawal/usage fees – Charged when withdrawing samples for use.
- Revisit fee – If you return for additional collections or consultations.
Always read the fine print so you know what’s covered in the quoted rates. Some clinics offer inclusive packages with no hidden fees, while others nickel and dime you along the way.
How can you lower the costs?
While sperm storage is not cheap, you may be able to lower your costs in a few ways:
- Ask about any promotions or first-time customer discounts.
- Pay for longer terms upfront to get the lowest annual rate.
- Minimize additional services to only what you need.
- See if your insurance provides any coverage for fertility preservation.
- Check if your employer or benefits programs offer discounted rates.
- Store at the facility closest to you to reduce shipping fees.
Shopping around and comparing costs across several sperm banks in your area can also help you find the best value. Just be sure to factor in all the costs, not just the upfront fees.
Can you finance sperm storage?
Since most men pay for sperm banking out of pocket, financing options are available to make costs more manageable. Some ways to cover sperm storage include:
- Payment plans – Many sperm banks break up costs into more affordable monthly payments.
- Loans – Specialty fertility loans and personal loans can fund treatment.
- Credit cards – Extended financing options are available through medical credit cards.
- Grants – Some organizations offer financial aid for fertility preservation.
Discuss financing with your sperm bank and also research third party organizations that provide assistance. While sperm storage represents a significant investment, flexible payment options exist.
Are there any storage term discounts?
To incentivize longer term storage, many sperm banks offer discounts for 5, 10, 15 or 20 year contracts. Typical discounts include:
- 5% off for 5 year contract
- 10% off for 10 year contract
- 15% off for 15 year contract
- 20% off for 20+ year contract
Locking in these longer plans upfront can provide significant savings compared to paying year-to-year. Just be sure to read the fine print regarding withdrawal fees if you need to pull samples early.
Should you choose a shorter or longer storage period?
The ideal sperm storage duration depends on your individual needs. Here are some factors to consider:
- Timeline – How soon do you anticipate needing the samples? Shorter term if within 5 years, longer if 10+ years away.
- Flexibility – Shorter term keeps your options open if plans change.
- Budget – Longer terms typically provide the best value if funding allows.
- Age – Store at a younger age for future family building vs short term for an upcoming procedure.
- Quantity – Enough samples should be stored to support the entire term.
A fertility specialist can help recommend the ideal timeline based on your age, medical needs, and family goals. This ensures you store sperm for as long as necessary.
Conclusion
Storing sperm for 10 years costs an average of $4,000-$6,000, with the bulk coming from annual storage fees. Key cost factors include the storage method, facility rates, and services included. While not an insignificant investment, sperm storage provides important fertility preservation and peace of mind.
To get the best value, compare costs across several sperm banks and ask about any available discounts. Also consider financing options to budget over time. With some planning, sperm storage can become an accessible way to protect your future fertility.
