How Much Does a Knee Replacement Cost? (2026 Guide)
March 10, 2026 · Procedure Costs · 10 min read
A total knee replacement is one of the most common — and most expensive — surgeries in the United States. Whether you're uninsured, on a high-deductible plan, or just trying to plan ahead, knowing the real cost matters.
Based on negotiated rate data from 973 hospitals, the national median cost of a total knee replacement (CPT 27447) is $10,929. Most patients can expect to pay between $3,611 and $16,722, though prices range from $1,322 to over $25,892.
That's a massive spread — and the hospital you choose can be the single biggest factor in what you pay. This guide breaks down the real numbers, what drives those costs, and how to save thousands.
National Knee Replacement Cost Data (2026)
We analyzed negotiated rates from hospitals across the country for CPT code 27447 (total knee replacement). Here's what the data shows:
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| National Median | $10,929 |
| National Average | $12,614 |
| Typical Range (25th–75th percentile) | $3,611 – $16,722 |
| Low End (10th percentile) | $1,322 |
| High End (90th percentile) | $25,892 |
| Hospitals Analyzed | 973 |
Data source: Negotiated rates from hospital price transparency files, analyzed by Taven Health. Prices reflect facility fees for CPT 27447 and do not include anesthesia, implant, or physical therapy costs, which are typically billed separately.
Compare knee replacement costs at hospitals near you →
What's Included in the Cost (And What's Not)
The numbers above reflect the surgeon's facility fee — the core procedure cost. But a knee replacement involves many separate charges:
Typically Included in the Facility Fee
- Operating room time
- Nursing care during surgery
- Recovery room
- Basic hospital stay (1–3 nights for inpatient)
Usually Billed Separately
- Implant/prosthesis: $3,000–$12,000 depending on brand and type
- Anesthesia: $1,500–$4,000
- Pre-op imaging and labs: $500–$1,500
- Physical therapy: $1,000–$5,000 (6–12 weeks post-op)
- Post-op medications: $100–$500
Total all-in cost for a knee replacement typically ranges from $15,000 to $50,000+ when everything is included.
Factors That Affect Your Knee Replacement Cost
1. Hospital vs. Ambulatory Surgery Center
This is often the biggest cost driver. Outpatient knee replacements at ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) cost 30–50% less than inpatient procedures at traditional hospitals. Not everyone qualifies for outpatient surgery — you'll need to be relatively healthy without major complications — but if your surgeon offers it, the savings can be dramatic.
2. Geographic Location
Prices vary enormously by region. Hospitals in major metro areas (New York, San Francisco, Boston) tend to charge significantly more than those in smaller cities or rural areas. The same surgery can cost $8,000 in one state and $30,000 in another.
3. Hospital Type
Academic medical centers and large health systems typically charge more than community hospitals or specialty orthopedic centers. You're paying for the brand name and overhead, not necessarily better outcomes for routine procedures.
4. Implant Choice
Knee implants range from $3,000 to $12,000+. Premium implants with advanced materials (e.g., highly cross-linked polyethylene, oxinium) cost more. Ask your surgeon whether a standard implant is appropriate — for many patients, outcomes are comparable.
5. Insurance and Negotiated Rates
The "chargemaster" (list price) for a knee replacement can be 2–5x what insurance companies actually pay. If you're uninsured, always ask for the self-pay or cash price — it's typically much lower than sticker price.
6. Length of Hospital Stay
Each additional hospital day adds $2,000–$5,000. Complications that extend your stay can dramatically increase the total.
Knee Replacement Cost With Insurance
If you have health insurance, your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan structure:
- High-deductible plan ($3,000–$7,000 deductible): You'll likely pay the full deductible plus coinsurance, typically $4,000–$8,000
- PPO/HMO with moderate deductible: Expect $2,000–$5,000 out of pocket
- Reached your out-of-pocket maximum: $0
Pro tip: If you're planning a knee replacement, check where you are relative to your annual out-of-pocket maximum. Scheduling the surgery later in the year after other medical expenses can mean lower costs.
Knee Replacement Cost With Medicare
Medicare covers total knee replacement as a medically necessary procedure:
- Part A (hospital): You pay the inpatient deductible ($1,632 in 2026)
- Part B (surgeon): 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting the Part B deductible
- Typical total out-of-pocket with Original Medicare: $2,000–$4,000
- Medicare Advantage: Varies by plan, but often lower copays
How to Save on Knee Replacement Surgery
1. Compare Prices Before You Schedule
Our data shows knee replacements ranging from $1,322 to over $25,000 — for the exact same CPT code. Use Taven's Compare Care tool to see what hospitals near you charge and find the best value.
2. Consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center
If you're a good candidate for outpatient surgery, ASCs typically charge significantly less than hospitals. Many orthopedic surgeons now perform knee replacements in ASC settings with excellent outcomes.
3. Ask About the Implant
Discuss implant options with your surgeon. In many cases, standard implants perform just as well as premium options and cost thousands less.
4. Get a Good Faith Estimate
Under federal law, you're entitled to a Good Faith Estimate before any scheduled procedure. This should include all expected costs — facility, surgeon, anesthesia, implant, and post-op care.
5. Negotiate the Price
If you're uninsured or paying out of pocket, negotiate directly with the hospital. Many facilities will offer 30–50% discounts for cash-pay patients, especially if you can pay upfront.
6. Check for Bundled Pricing
Some hospitals and surgery centers offer "bundled" pricing for knee replacements that includes the surgeon, facility, anesthesia, and implant in one price. This can save significantly compared to piecemeal billing.
7. Look Into Medical Tourism (Domestic)
If you're willing to travel, hospitals in lower-cost regions may offer the same quality at a fraction of the price. Some employers and insurers even offer incentives for traveling to Centers of Excellence.
When Is a Knee Replacement Medically Necessary?
Knee replacement is typically recommended when:
- Severe arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) causes daily pain
- Conservative treatments (physical therapy, injections, medications) haven't worked
- Pain significantly limits daily activities (walking, climbing stairs, getting in/out of chairs)
- X-rays show significant joint damage
- Knee deformity is progressing
If you haven't tried conservative treatments, most surgeons and insurers will want to see 3–6 months of non-surgical treatment before approving surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Without insurance, a total knee replacement (CPT 27447) costs between $3,611 and $16,722 at most hospitals, with a national median of $10,929. Some facilities charge as low as $1,322 while others exceed $25,000. Always ask for the self-pay rate.
With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan. Most patients pay between $2,000 and $8,000 after insurance, depending on their deductible, copay, and coinsurance.
Yes. Medicare Part A covers the hospital stay and Part B covers the surgeon's fee. You'll typically pay the Part A deductible plus 20% of the surgeon's Medicare-approved amount.
Hospitals set their own prices. Location, facility type, implant brand, and insurance negotiated rates all create massive variation. Compare prices near you to see the difference.
Yes, significantly. Outpatient knee replacements at ambulatory surgery centers typically cost 30–50% less than inpatient procedures at hospitals.
The Bottom Line
A total knee replacement costs a median of $10,929 nationally, but prices range from $1,322 to over $25,892. The hospital you choose matters more than almost any other factor.
Before scheduling, compare prices at hospitals near you, ask about outpatient options, get a Good Faith Estimate, and negotiate. The same surgery at a different facility could save you $10,000+.