What is the Average Cost of Adoption in the US?

The question “What is the average cost of adoption in the US?” is one that many future adoptive parents ask.

In general, adoption in the US costs between $20,000 and $50,000.

Since adoption is a major life choice with legal steps, it is crucial to understand these costs while planning.

It also helps to know where these costs come from and what factors could make adoption more or less expensive.

Typically, private adoptions cost more than adoptions from foster care, and international adoptions tend to cost more than domestic adoptions.

Here, we explore the costs of adoption in the US and specifically in Georgia, where Your Law Firm is located.

What Are the Costs Associated With a US Adoption?

Adoption costs in the US can vary widely depending on the type of adoption.

The main costs often include agency fees, legal fees, home study costs, birth mother expenses, post-placement visits, and sometimes travel fees.

To get an idea of which costs apply, you’ll need to decide what type of adoption you want: international, private agency, foster care, or a relative adoption.

Then, decide if you’ll adopt within your home state or another state.

Once you know these details, you can focus on learning about costs for those adoption types in that state.

Even international adoptions must be “domesticated” in the parent’s home state, so these are included in “United States” costs here.

What Is the Average Cost of Adoption in Georgia?

In Georgia, the average adoption cost aligns closely with the national average, ranging from $20,000 to $50,000.

However, specific costs may vary depending on individual situations and the adoption type chosen.

Generally, a foster care adoption costs less than a private agency adoption – though this is not always the case, so be sure to research your adoption type carefully to understand its costs and budget accordingly.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Newborn Child?

Adopting a newborn often means higher costs because of medical expenses for the birth mother and baby, along with agency and legal fees.

In the US, the average cost to adopt a newborn is between $25,000 and $50,000.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Newborn Child in Georgia?

In Georgia, the cost to adopt a newborn is generally in line with the national range.

Prospective parents should expect costs between $25,000 and $50,000, though individual factors may affect this range.

How Much Is It to Adopt a Child from Foster Care?

Adopting a child from foster care is often more affordable than private or international adoptions. In many cases, it may cost little or nothing.

The average cost is between $0 and $2,500.

In some states, such as Georgia, you might need to hire your own attorney to represent you, which would increase the cost due to legal fees.

How Much Is It to Adopt a Child from Foster Care in Georgia?

In Georgia, the cost of adopting from foster care aligns with the national average.

Many foster care adoptions are managed by the state at little or no cost to adoptive parents, often between $0 and $2,500.

However, if you need a private attorney, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more.

This depends on whether the child’s birth parents have already had their rights terminated (less expensive) or not (more expensive).

A helpful tip: If parental rights haven’t been terminated by the State of Georgia, hiring a private attorney can be valuable to finalize the adoption.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Child Internationally?

International adoption is often more expensive due to additional costs like travel, immigration fees, and foreign agency costs.

The average cost for international adoption in the US is between $30,000 and $60,000, depending on the country of origin.

Final Thoughts

Knowing adoption costs is a key part of the adoption journey.

While these figures provide a general sense, researching the specific costs for your type of adoption and unique situation is essential.