Vet care

Microchip cost

A microchip is a one-time cost that greatly improves the odds of getting a lost pet back.

Updated October 15, 2026 · US prices · 2 sources · see sources

Typical US prices
Item	Typical US price	Src
Published price, median of 119 practices	$52 (most $40–$68)	[1]
Low-cost clinic median	$28	[1]
Average of 21 reports	$63	[2]

Ranges come from the sources below, and each one measures something slightly different (published prices, owner invoices or planning budgets). Your vet's estimate is what counts. Older figures, like the ASPCA's 2021 table, are probably lower than today's prices.

What affects the cost

Where you get it Low-cost clinics had a median published price of $28 versus $52 at regular practices. [1]
Range of reported prices VetTally reports an average of $63, with a range of $22–$136. [2]

Ways to save

Check low-cost clinics and shelters Low-cost clinic median: $28 (PawsRx). [1]
Adopting? Ask what is already done Ask the shelter whether the pet is already microchipped before paying for one separately. [1]

Questions to ask your vet

Print this or bring it on your phone.

Is registration in a database included in the price?
Can you scan the chip at each visit to make sure it still reads?
Can it be done at the same visit as a spay/neuter?

Common questions

How much does it cost to microchip a dog or cat?

Practices that publish the price have a median of $52 (PawsRx). Low-cost clinics are often cheaper.

Sources

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