| Option | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple / straightforward | $800–$1,000 |
| Standard complexity | $1,866–$3,033 |
| Complex / contested | $2,934–$4,767 |
| High-stakes litigation | $5,000+ |
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| Document | Online DIY | Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Simple will | $50–$200 | $300–$1,000 |
| Revocable living trust | $200–$500 | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Pour-over will + trust | — | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Power of attorney (financial) | $30–$100 | $200–$500 |
| Healthcare directive / living will | $30–$100 | $200–$500 |
| Complete estate plan (all documents) | $300–$800 | $2,500–$7,000 |
A living trust costs more upfront but avoids probate ($3,000–$10,000+ in court costs and 6–18 months of delays). For estates over $100,000 or anyone who owns real estate, a trust typically saves the family far more than it costs to set up.
Estate Planning costs are driven primarily by complexity and whether the matter is contested. Simple, uncontested matters with clear documentation can often be handled at flat-fee rates. Once disputes arise, costs shift to hourly billing and become much harder to predict.
Geography matters more than most people realize. Attorney rates in New York or San Francisco can be 2–3 times higher than in smaller markets for the same type of work. If your matter does not require a local attorney, hiring outside a major metro can save substantially without sacrificing quality.