Always confirm costs with your healthcare facility and/or insurance coverage
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9) protects against several strains of human papillomavirus that can cause cervical, throat, anal, and other cancers, as well as genital warts. But depending on your age and insurance, the cost of getting vaccinated can range from free to frustratingly expensive.
Here’s exactly what you can expect to pay — and how to avoid overpaying.
💡 Quick Cost Summary
Situation |
Cost Per Dose |
Total (2–3 Doses) |
|---|---|---|
List Price (No Insurance) |
$286.78 |
$573.56 – $860.34 |
With Private Insurance |
$0 |
$0 |
Children (≤18, Uninsured) |
$0 (VFC Program) |
$0 |
Adults 19–26 (Uninsured) |
$0 (Merck PAP) |
$0 |
Adults 27–45 (Uninsured) |
~$286.78 |
~$860.34 |
🧾 Source: Gardasil9.com and Verywell Health
📌 Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?
Age Group |
Doses Needed |
Frequency |
|---|---|---|
9–14 years old |
2 doses |
6–12 months apart |
15–26 years old |
3 doses |
Over 6 months |
27–45 years old |
3 doses |
Based on risk assessment |
✅ Most effective when given before any exposure to HPV — ideally between ages 9–14.
🏥 Where to Get the Vaccine
-
Your primary care doctor or pediatrician
-
CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid pharmacies
-
Planned Parenthood
-
Community health clinics
-
Local health departments
💡 Call ahead — especially for ages 27–45 — as some providers don’t stock it for older adults unless pre-approved.
💳 Insurance & Assistance Coverage
Program / Coverage |
Eligibility |
Cost |
|---|---|---|
Private Insurance |
Age ≤26 |
$0 (fully covered under ACA) |
Medicaid |
Varies by state |
Usually $0 |
Vaccines for Children (VFC) |
Under 19 & uninsured or Medicaid |
$0 |
Merck Patient Assistance Program |
Age 19–26, uninsured, low-income |
$0 |
📉 Ways to Save on the HPV Vaccine
-
✅ Use your insurance if you’re under 27 — it’s 100% covered
-
✅ Apply for the Merck Patient Assistance Program if uninsured (ages 19–26)
-
✅ Take advantage of the VFC program for children and teens under 19
-
✅ Ask your provider about cash-pay discounts if you’re over 26 and uninsured
-
✅ If you’re 27–45, check if you’re high-risk and eligible under your plan
💭 Final Thoughts: It’s Expensive — Unless You’re Smart About It
The HPV vaccine isn’t cheap out-of-pocket — but the good news? Most people can get it for free.
If you’re under 27 and insured, it’s a no-brainer. If you’re older and uninsured, you’ve still got options — you just need to ask.
🧬 It’s cancer prevention in a syringe. And with the right plan, it won’t cost you a dime.
🔚 Bottom Line
-
No insurance? Expect ~$860 for 3 doses
-
With insurance or public program? Likely $0
-
Ages 27–45? Covered only for high-risk patients or cash pay
-
Don’t assume you have to pay full price — assistance is out there
Sources:
