Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does CT Scan Cost?
Without Insurance
$300 – $3,000
Average: $1,650
With Insurance
$100 – $400
Average: $250
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Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Head/Brain CT | $300 – $2,000 | $100 – $300 |
| Chest CT | $400 – $2,500 | $100 – $350 |
| Abdomen/Pelvis CT | $500 – $3,000 | $150 – $400 |
| CT with Contrast | $500 – $3,500 | $150 – $500 |
| Low-Dose CT Lung Screening | $100 – $400 | $0 – $0 |
CPT/ADA Code: 74177
What Affects the Cost
- Facility type (freestanding center vs. hospital — hospitals cost 2-3x more)
- Geographic location
- Complexity of the visit or test
- Whether additional tests or procedures are needed
- In-network vs. out-of-network provider
- Time of day (emergency/after-hours may cost more)
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered when necessary; deductible + 20-40% coinsurance
Most diagnostic tests and urgent care visits are covered when medically necessary with a doctor's order. You'll pay your deductible first, then coinsurance (typically 20-40%). Preventive screenings are covered at $0 under the ACA. Always use in-network providers to avoid surprise bills.
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How to Save Money
- Freestanding facilities cost 50-70% less than hospital-based
- Ask for cash-pay pricing upfront — often 40-60% less than billed rate
- Compare prices on MDsave.com or Healthcare Bluebook
- Use urgent care instead of ER for non-emergencies (save $1,000+)
- Telehealth visits cost $50-$100 for many conditions
- Check if the service qualifies as preventive care ($0 with insurance)
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally yes. CT: $300-$3,000 vs MRI: $400-$3,500. CT is faster (5-15 min) and cheaper to operate.
Yes, when medically necessary with a doctor's order. Preventive lung screening is $0 for eligible patients.
CT in the ER: $1,500-$5,000 (2-5x more than outpatient). For non-emergencies, always opt for outpatient.
Disclaimer: Costs shown are estimates based on national averages and may vary by location, provider, and insurance plan. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider and insurance company for exact costs. Read full disclaimer.
Sources: FAIR Health Consumer, Healthcare Bluebook, CMS Medicare Fee Schedules, GoodRx, and published clinical pricing data. Last updated: 2026-03-15.