Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Rapid Strep Test Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Antigen Detection Test | $20 – $50 | $0 – $15 |
| With Backup Throat Culture | $40 – $85 | $10 – $25 |
CPT/ADA Code: CPT 87880
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 as diagnostic test at clinic or urgent care
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.
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
Results are available in 5-15 minutes during your visit. If negative, a throat culture backup takes 24-48 hours for results.
Rapid strep tests are 95-99% specific (reliable positive result) but only 80-90% sensitive (can miss some cases). Children should have a throat culture to confirm negative rapid tests.
Urgent care, walk-in clinics, MinuteClinic, primary care offices, and some pharmacies. No appointment is usually needed at urgent care or retail clinics.