A sleep study, also called polysomnography, is a medical test that records what happens to your body during sleep. Doctors use it to diagnose sleep disorders like sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and periodic limb movement disorder. The test usually takes place overnight in a sleep lab or sometimes at home with portable equipment.
The cost of a sleep study varies widely depending on where you live, the type of study, whether you have insurance, the facility, and whether it is in-lab or at-home. Without insurance, prices in the United States can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic home study to several thousand dollars for a full in-lab diagnostic study with multiple channels.
Understanding these costs helps you plan ahead and ask the right questions. This article explains the main factors that affect price, average ranges in 2025, insurance coverage details, ways to lower expenses, and what to expect during the process. Prices and coverage can change, so always verify with your provider and insurance plan.
Types of Sleep Studies and Their Typical Costs
There are several types of sleep studies, each with different complexity and price. The most common is an overnight in-lab polysomnography (PSG), which monitors brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing, leg movements, and more. This is considered the gold standard for diagnosing most sleep disorders.
Home sleep apnea tests (HSAT) are simpler, portable devices you use at home for one or two nights. They usually measure breathing, oxygen levels, and heart rate but not full brain activity or detailed sleep stages. These are less expensive and often used first for suspected obstructive sleep apnea.
Split-night studies combine diagnostic and treatment in one night: the first half diagnoses the problem, and the second half tests CPAP therapy if needed. Multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT) and maintenance of wakefulness tests (MWT) are daytime follow-up tests used for narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness.
Factors That Affect Sleep Study Costs
Location makes a big difference. In large cities or high-cost regions (New York, California, Massachusetts), in-lab studies often cost 20–50% more than in rural areas or lower-cost states. Hospital-based labs usually charge more than standalone sleep centers.
Insurance status changes everything. With good coverage, your out-of-pocket may be only the copay or coinsurance after deductible. Without insurance, you pay full “chargemaster” rates, which are much higher than negotiated insurance rates.
Facility type matters. Hospital-affiliated sleep labs tend to be more expensive than independent centers. Home sleep tests are almost always cheaper because they do not require overnight staff or facility overhead.
- Main Cost Influences:
- In-lab vs home study
- Geographic region
- Insurance coverage and deductible
- Facility type (hospital vs independent)
- Additional tests (MSLT, split-night)
Average Costs Without Insurance in 2025
An in-lab diagnostic polysomnography (full overnight study) typically costs $1,000–$3,000 without insurance. Prices at the lower end are more common in independent sleep centers in lower-cost areas. Hospital-based labs often charge $2,000–$4,000 or more.
A home sleep apnea test (HSAT) usually costs $150–$500 without insurance. Basic two-channel devices fall toward the lower end, while more advanced multi-channel home studies are closer to $400–$500.
Split-night studies (diagnosis + CPAP titration in one night) generally cost $1,500–$4,000. Add-on daytime tests like MSLT or MWT add $500–$1,200 each.
These are national averages. Actual prices can be lower or higher depending on your location and facility.
Insurance Coverage and Out-of-Pocket Breakdown
Most private insurance plans cover sleep studies when they are medically necessary and ordered by a doctor. Common covered indications include suspected sleep apnea, unexplained excessive daytime sleepiness, narcolepsy evaluation, or parasomnias.
With insurance, out-of-pocket costs depend on your plan:
- Deductible phase: You pay full negotiated rate until deductible is met
- Copay plans: Fixed $50–$150 per study after deductible
- Coinsurance plans: 10–30% of negotiated rate
- Out-of-network: Higher coinsurance or full cost
Medicare Part B covers sleep studies when medically necessary. You pay 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible. Home sleep tests are covered for suspected obstructive sleep apnea if criteria are met.
Medicaid coverage varies by state. Most states cover in-lab and home sleep studies for approved diagnoses with prior authorization.
Comparison of Sleep Study Costs by Type and Coverage (2025 Averages)
| Study Type | Without Insurance | With Private Insurance (after deductible) | With Medicare (after deductible) |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Lab Polysomnography | $1,000–$3,000 | $50–$500 copay/coinsurance | $200–$600 (20% coinsurance) |
| Home Sleep Apnea Test | $150–$500 | $20–$150 copay | $30–$100 |
| Split-Night Study | $1,500–$4,000 | $100–$800 | $300–$800 |
| Multiple Sleep Latency Test | $500–$1,200 | $50–$300 | $100–$240 |
Costs shown are national averages and can vary 30–50% by region and facility.
Ways to Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs
Ask for a cash-pay discount. Many sleep centers offer 20–50% off list price for uninsured patients who pay upfront. Negotiate directly with the facility billing office.
Use discount cards or programs like GoodRx or SingleCare for home sleep tests. These can reduce out-of-pocket by 10–30% at participating locations.
Check for financial assistance. Some hospitals and sleep centers offer sliding-scale fees based on income. Nonprofit organizations and state programs sometimes help with diagnostic testing costs.
Choose a home sleep test when appropriate. They are much cheaper and often sufficient for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea. Ask your doctor if a home test meets your diagnostic needs.
- Cost-Saving Tips:
- Request cash-pay discount upfront
- Compare multiple sleep centers in your area
- Use discount cards for home tests
- Ask about payment plans or financial aid
- Confirm medical necessity to improve insurance approval
What to Expect During the Billing Process
Sleep centers usually bill insurance first. You receive an explanation of benefits (EOB) showing what was covered and your responsibility. You may get a bill later for your share (copay, coinsurance, deductible).
If prior authorization was required but not obtained, the claim may be denied. You can appeal the denial or pay out-of-pocket. Always confirm authorization before the study.
For uninsured patients, facilities often require payment upfront or offer payment plans. Ask about discounts for cash pay and whether labs or physician fees are separate.
When to Appeal or Seek Alternatives
If coverage is denied, appeal within the plan’s deadline (usually 60–180 days). Submit additional medical records, sleep logs, or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Appeals succeed more often with strong documentation.
If appeals fail, ask about financial assistance from the sleep center. Some offer charity care or sliding-scale fees. Consider a home sleep test if it is appropriate for your symptoms—lower cost and often sufficient for diagnosis.
Discuss alternatives with your doctor. Home testing, oral appliances, or positional therapy may be covered more readily for certain conditions.
Medicare and most private insurance cover sleep studies when medically necessary, but out-of-pocket costs vary widely based on plan type, deductible status, and prior authorization approval. Home sleep tests are usually much cheaper than in-lab studies. Always confirm coverage and costs in advance, ask about financial assistance, and appeal denials with strong documentation when needed.
FAQ
How much does an in-lab sleep study cost without insurance?
An overnight in-lab polysomnography typically costs $1,000–$3,000 without insurance in 2025. Hospital-based labs often charge toward the higher end ($2,000–$4,000), while independent sleep centers may be lower ($1,000–$2,000). Prices vary by region and facility.
Does Medicare cover sleep studies?
Yes, Medicare Part B covers sleep studies when medically necessary (e.g., suspected sleep apnea, narcolepsy). You pay 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible. Home sleep apnea tests are covered for suspected obstructive sleep apnea if criteria are met.
Is a home sleep test much cheaper than an in-lab study?
Yes. Home sleep apnea tests usually cost $150–$500 without insurance, compared to $1,000–$3,000 for in-lab studies. They are often sufficient for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea but less comprehensive for other disorders.
What happens if my insurance denies coverage for a sleep study?
Appeal the denial with additional medical records or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Ask the sleep center about cash-pay discounts or financial assistance. Consider a home sleep test if appropriate—it is cheaper and sometimes easier to get approved.
How can I lower the cost of a sleep study?
Request a cash-pay discount (often 20–50% off). Compare prices at multiple sleep centers. Use discount cards or programs for home tests. Check for financial assistance or charity care at hospitals. Confirm medical necessity to improve insurance approval chances.
Are there any free or low-cost sleep study options?
Some community health centers, teaching hospitals, or nonprofit programs offer sliding-scale fees or free studies for low-income patients. Manufacturer assistance programs do not cover sleep studies. Check local resources or ask your doctor about low-cost options in your area.
Dr. Usman is a medical content reviewer with 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic health topics. His work is based on trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Usman is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.