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When it’s time for your yearly checkup, the cost can feel like a barrier — especially if you don’t have health insurance. But how much does an annual physical really cost if you’re paying out of pocket?
In 2025, a physical exam typically costs between $75 and $350 without insurance. The national average is around $212. Prices vary depending on where you go, the type of clinic, and whether you need additional tests.
Here’s what to expect, how to lower your costs, and why these exams are worth it.
Average Cost of a Physical Without Insurance
The cost of an annual physical depends on your location and the provider you choose. Most clinics charge $75–$350, and the average is about $212 across the U.S.
A basic physical exam usually includes:
- A review of your medical history and prescriptions
- Blood pressure and heart rate checks
- Height, weight, and temperature measurements
- Vision screening
- A general health evaluation
If your doctor recommends extra testing, such as bloodwork or scans, expect to pay an additional $20–$200 depending on the test.
Calling a few local clinics before booking is a great way to compare prices. Some offer discounts for paying upfront or for patients without insurance.
Tip: Ask if the clinic has “self-pay” pricing — many do, but it’s not always advertised.
Where to Get a Physical Without Insurance
Local Clinics
Walk-in clinics and community health centers are often the most affordable options. These clinics typically charge $75–$200 and don’t always require an appointment.
They’re a good choice for basic checkups and preventive care. Many also offer lab work at discounted rates for self-pay patients.
Local Hospitals
Hospitals can provide more comprehensive physicals, but they also tend to cost more — usually $250–$350 or higher.
If you choose a hospital, call ahead and explain that you’re paying without insurance. Ask for an estimate of the total cost before your visit.
Urgent Care Centers
Urgent care clinics are another convenient option. Most charge $100–$250 for a physical.
These centers are walk-in friendly and can handle routine exams quickly. They’re usually less expensive than hospitals but slightly more than walk-in clinics.
Additional Costs to Expect
Sometimes, a doctor may recommend extra tests during your physical. These can include:
- Blood panel: $20–$150
- Abdominal ultrasound: Starting around $180
- CT scan: Starting around $250
- X-ray: $100–$1,000
- EKG (heart test): Around $70
Comprehensive physicals that include multiple tests can cost $1,000–$5,000, depending on what’s done.
You always have the right to ask about pricing before agreeing to any test. The No Surprises Act (2022) requires providers to disclose costs in advance, so don’t hesitate to request that information.
How to Save Money on a Physical
Here are a few ways to reduce costs if you’re paying out of pocket:
- Check for free or low-cost clinics. Some cities have community health centers that provide exams at no charge or for a small fee.
- Look for retail clinics. CVS MinuteClinic and Walmart Health locations often charge less than $70 for basic physicals and screenings.
- Ask for discounts. Many clinics offer self-pay or cash discounts if you pay at the time of service.
- Get quotes before scheduling. Prices can vary widely, so compare a few options first.
- Ask about payment plans. Some providers let you pay over time or offer financial assistance.
By being proactive and asking questions, you can often cut your bill significantly.
What Happens During a Physical Exam?
A physical is a routine checkup meant to catch potential health issues early. Most exams include:
- Reviewing your medical history and medications
- Checking your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, etc.)
- Examining your eyes, ears, throat, skin, and thyroid
- Listening to your heart and lungs
- Performing basic neurological and musculoskeletal checks
Depending on your age and health, your provider may also recommend additional screenings, such as blood tests, pap smears, or mammograms.
Even if you feel healthy, it’s smart to schedule one each year. Regular physicals can help detect problems early — before they become more serious or expensive to treat.
Why Getting an Annual Physical Matters
Skipping a yearly checkup might save money now, but it can cost you more later. Annual physicals help identify early signs of:
- Heart disease
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Certain cancers
Preventive care is almost always cheaper than treatment after symptoms appear. Even if you don’t have insurance, a yearly exam is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your long-term health.
A Smarter Way to Handle Routine Care: Direct Primary Care (DPC)
If you’re tired of paying high prices for basic doctor visits or annual physicals, there’s another option that can save you money and simplify your healthcare: Direct Primary Care (DPC).
With a DPC, you pay a flat monthly membership fee — usually between $50 and $150 per month — directly to your doctor. In exchange, you get unlimited access to most or all of your primary care services without surprise bills or complicated insurance claims.
Most DPC memberships include:
- Annual physicals and preventive care
- Discounted lab work and common tests
- Same-day or next-day appointments
- Extended visits and direct communication with your doctor
Because you’re paying your doctor directly, there are no copays or insurance middlemen — just straightforward care when you need it. Many families find that DPC memberships pay for themselves after just a few visits each year, especially when compared to the average cost of a physical ($212 or more without insurance).
While DPC isn’t designed for major hospitalizations or specialist care, it pairs perfectly with an affordable health share or catastrophic plan for larger medical needs. But for everyday care, checkups, and prevention, Direct Primary Care can be one of the best ways to stay healthy without breaking the bank.
? Learn more about how Direct Primary Care works and why so many families are switching to it.
Health shares are not insurance and do not offer insurance coverage. Membership in a health share does not guarantee the payment or reimbursement of medical expenses. Each organization operates under its own membership guidelines, which determine what expenses may be eligible for sharing. This publication is for informational purposes only and is not provided by an insurance company. For state-specific notices and full program details, please visit the respective health share’s official website.
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