| Test Type | Cost (No Insurance) | With Insurance | Results | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| At-home rapid antigen | $8–$15/test | $8–$15 (no longer free) | 15–30 min | 80–95% |
| Pharmacy rapid antigen | $0–$40 | $0–$25 copay | 15–30 min | 85–95% |
| Standard PCR (clinic) | $75–$200 | $0–$50 copay | 24–72 hrs | 95–99% |
| Rapid PCR / NAAT | $100–$250 | $0–$75 copay | 1–4 hrs | 95–99% |
| Urgent care PCR | $150–$350 (incl. visit) | $20–$75 copay | 24–48 hrs | 95–99% |
| Hospital / ER | $200–$500+ | ER copay + test | 1–24 hrs | 95–99% |
The landscape has changed significantly since the pandemic emergency ended. Private insurance plans are no longer required to cover at-home test kits for free (that mandate expired in 2024). However, most plans still cover tests ordered by a healthcare provider at in-network facilities with standard cost-sharing (copay or coinsurance). Medicare Part B continues to cover COVID tests at $0 when ordered by a provider. Medicaid coverage varies by state but most continue to cover testing at no cost. If you are uninsured, community health centers and local health departments remain your best option for free or low-cost testing.
For most situations, a rapid antigen test ($8–$15, results in 15 minutes) is sufficient. Use a rapid test if you have symptoms and want to know quickly, if you were exposed and want to check before visiting vulnerable people, or for routine screening. Choose a PCR test ($75–$250, results in 24–72 hours) if you need official documentation for travel or work, if you tested negative on a rapid but still have symptoms, or if you are immunocompromised and need maximum accuracy. PCR tests detect lower levels of virus and are more reliable in early infection, but they can also remain positive for weeks after you are no longer infectious.