How Much Is a Mammogram Without Insurance
Last updated September 10, 2026.
A screening mammogram without insurance typically costs $80 to $300, depending on location and facility type. Free or low-cost mammograms are available through federal programs, community health centers, and state screening initiatives for people who meet income or age requirements.
What Mammograms Cost Without Insurance
Screening mammograms at standalone imaging centers generally run $80 to $200. Hospital-based facilities often charge $150 to $300 for the same test. Diagnostic mammograms, which are more detailed and used when there is a concern or symptom, cost more, typically $200 to $500.
Prices vary widely by region and facility. Urban areas tend to cost more than rural locations. Some imaging centers offer self-pay discounts or payment plans. Always ask for the cash price upfront before scheduling.
Mobile mammography units and community health events sometimes provide screening at reduced rates or free. These are often listed on county health department websites or through local nonprofit organizations.
CDC National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
The CDC funds free or low-cost mammograms for women who have low income, no insurance, or are underinsured. Each state runs its own program with slightly different eligibility rules. Generally, you must be age 40 or older, have income at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level, and lack adequate insurance for screening.
Services include screening mammograms, clinical breast exams, diagnostic testing if something abnormal is found, and treatment referrals if cancer is diagnosed. To find your state program, contact your state health department or call 800-CDC-INFO.
These programs do not bill you. They cover the full cost of screening and follow-up. Wait times vary by state and demand, so contact the program as early as possible.
Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers
Federally qualified health centers and community health centers provide mammogram referrals and often coordinate low-cost screening for uninsured patients. They use a sliding fee scale based on household income and size. Many work directly with imaging partners to arrange affordable rates.
To find a health center near you, use the HRSA health center locator at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov. Enter your zip code and select services that include women's health or breast cancer screening.
These centers also help connect you to state screening programs and can provide follow-up care if any issues are found. They accept patients regardless of insurance status.
Hospital Charity Care and Financial Assistance
Nonprofit hospitals are required to offer financial assistance programs, sometimes called charity care. If you have low income or no insurance, you may qualify for free or discounted mammograms. Eligibility is usually based on income relative to the federal poverty level, often 200 to 400 percent depending on the hospital.
Ask the hospital billing or patient financial services department about their policy before your appointment. You will need to provide income documentation such as pay stubs or tax returns. Some hospitals have a simple application you can complete online or by phone.
Approval can take a few days to a few weeks. If approved, the hospital writes off or reduces the bill. This applies to both screening and diagnostic mammograms.
When to Get a Mammogram
Screening mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, or earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. Women ages 50 to 74 should have a mammogram every one to two years. Talk to a primary care provider about the right schedule for you.
If you notice a lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or pain in your breast, you need a diagnostic mammogram, not just a screening. These symptoms should be evaluated promptly. Community health centers and free clinics can help arrange this even without insurance.
Free screening programs usually cover routine mammograms for eligible women. They also cover follow-up if the screening finds something that needs more testing.
How to Find Free or Low-Cost Mammograms
Start by calling 211, a free helpline that connects you to local health services. Operators can tell you about nearby screening programs, mobile mammography events, and health centers that offer sliding scale fees.
Check your county or city health department website for breast cancer screening programs and upcoming community health events. Many areas hold free mammogram days, especially in October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
If you are unsure where to start, contact a community health center or call the CDC program in your state. Staff at these organizations are trained to help uninsured people access screening at no cost or low cost.
Common questions
Can I get a free mammogram if I have no insurance?
Yes, if you meet income and age requirements. The CDC National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides free mammograms to eligible women in every state. Community health centers and some hospitals also offer free or sliding scale screening. Call 211 or your state health department to find a program near you.
How much does a mammogram cost if I pay out of pocket?
Screening mammograms without insurance typically cost $80 to $300. Diagnostic mammograms, used when there is a symptom or concern, cost $200 to $500. Prices vary by location and facility type. Imaging centers generally charge less than hospital radiology departments.
What is the CDC breast cancer screening program?
The CDC National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program funds free mammograms and follow-up care for women with low income who are uninsured or underinsured. Each state runs its own version. Eligibility usually requires age 40 or older and income at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level. Contact your state health department to apply.
Do community health centers do mammograms?
Community health centers do not usually perform mammograms on site, but they refer patients to imaging partners and coordinate low-cost or free screening. They use a sliding fee scale based on your income. Find a health center near you at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Where can I get a mammogram for under $100?
Some standalone imaging centers and mobile mammography units charge $80 to $150 for screening mammograms. Free or very low-cost options are available through CDC state programs, community health centers, and hospital charity care if you qualify based on income. Call 211 or contact your local health department to find affordable screening near you.
Sources
- CDC - National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
- HRSA - Find a Health Center
- 211 - Community Resources
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.