How Much Does a PET Scan Cost?

Median cash price $1,900 Most people pay $1,900–$2,800
$1,900 median $0 $8,000

Full range $1,500–$7,600 · Based on cash prices from 19 clinics · Updated June 2026 limited data

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A PET scan (usually a combined PET/CT) is among the most expensive imaging tests, often running into the thousands in cash. It's most often used in cancer care, and the price reflects the radioactive tracer, the combined scanner, and the time involved. The figures above are the real self-pay prices clinics publish.

What makes a PET scan cost more or less?

  • The tracer. PET uses a radioactive tracer that must be produced and delivered for each scan, a major part of the cost.
  • Scope. A whole-body PET/CT costs more than a limited study of one region.
  • Facility. Hospital-based PET tends to be priced above dedicated outpatient imaging centers.

Good to know before you book

Because PET is expensive and usually part of cancer diagnosis or monitoring, it's frequently covered by insurance when medically necessary — check your coverage first. If you're paying cash, ask for the all-in price (tracer, scan, and reading) and compare outpatient centers.

Frequently asked questions

Why is a PET scan so expensive?
PET requires a short-lived radioactive tracer made for each patient, plus a combined PET/CT scanner and longer scan time, all of which drive the price well above other scans.
Is a PET scan covered by insurance?
Often, when it's medically necessary — for example in cancer staging or monitoring. Check your plan; these cash prices apply when you pay yourself.
What is a PET/CT scan?
Most PET scans today are done on a combined PET/CT machine, which overlays the PET's metabolic image on a CT's anatomical image in one visit.

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Use this data

Writing about healthcare prices? You're welcome to cite these figures with a link back to this page. Embed the live price-range chart:

Source: Expected Health — PET cost

These are self-reported cash (self-pay) prices collected from clinics and standardized to a common procedure so the same scan is compared like-for-like; they may have changed since collection. They are estimates for general guidance, not quotes — you can confirm current pricing by contacting the clinic directly. Insurance pricing differs from cash pricing. This page is not medical or financial advice.