How Much Do Sleep Studies Cost?

A multiple sleep latency test is used to diagnose other sleep disorders. This test measures how long it takes a patient to fall asleep in a stimulant-free environment, over the course of several scheduled naps throughout the day. This can be used to diagnose narcolepsy. A version of this test can also be done at night, which measures how long it takes to fall asleep in a dim room.

There are other sleep studies that you may be asked to do by your doctor, but typically these are the go-to tests to begin diagnosing a sleep disorder.

Where do I do a sleep study?

Sleep studies can be conducted in a lab, at home, or even a private sleep institute. Where you’re doing these tests can dictate the cost, so pay close attention to where your physician may be sending you.

In lab

Sleep labs are usually in a hospital, but some independent labs do exist. They are usually set up as comfortable as possible to get a realistic baseline of your typical night’s sleep. Even if you aren’t able to fully relax and get as deep as sleep as you normally do, the data collected on your breathing patterns and heart rate can still be super useful in diagnosing potential problems. A tech will set you up with electrode sensors and help if you have any issues throughout the night.

At home

You may be able to complete a sleep study at home if your doctor and insurance cover it. This would typically involve using a CPAP machine or some other device to track your sleeping habits throughout a typical 8 hour night to see any changes in your patterns, breathing, and heart rate. If you are able to book an in home test, this might be the most realistic option, instead of putting yourself in a more clinical, and perhaps stressful situation. Most independent sleep labs also offer at home solutions, and can be worked out through your insurance plan.

So, how much does a sleep study cost?

That can be tough to answer without knowing the details of your individual health insurance plan, but a safe estimate is about $1,000 per night for an overnight study done in a lab. Many health insurance plans cover these costs, but if you do have to pay out of pocket, you can usually work out a payment plan with the sleep center.

Most sleep studies range anywhere from $300 to $3,000 depending on what all you need to be tested for, but that’s just a guideline. Always call your insurance to ask about any medical testing costs up front—and see if you can negotiate a cash discount with the testing lab if possible.

Some sleep disorders can be dangerous, so if you suspect that you do have an issue at night, it’s always better to talk to a doctor and get the necessary testing to determine what’s happening.