ER vs Urgent Care Cost Estimator
Compare costs between the Emergency Room and Urgent Care for common conditions. Making the right choice could save you thousands of dollars.
If this is a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
Always go to the ER for: chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, stroke symptoms, loss of consciousness, severe allergic reactions, or any life-threatening condition.
Educational Estimates: These are national average cost ranges for educational purposes. Actual costs vary by location and facility. This tool is not medical advice — always consult a healthcare professional.
Sore Throat / Strep Test
Urgent Care OKEar Infection
Urgent Care OKUrinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urgent Care OKMinor Cut Requiring Stitches
Urgent Care OKSprained Ankle
Urgent Care OKMinor Burn
Urgent Care OKPink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Urgent Care OKFlu / Cold Symptoms
Urgent Care OKMild Allergic Reaction (Rash/Hives)
Urgent Care OKBack Pain (Non-traumatic)
Urgent Care OKChest Pain
ER RequiredDifficulty Breathing
ER RequiredSevere Abdominal Pain
ER RequiredHead Injury with Confusion
ER RequiredBroken Bone (Suspected Fracture)
Urgent Care OKTips to Save on Emergency Care
Know your nearest urgent care
Save the address and hours of 2-3 urgent care centers near you before an emergency happens.
Check if your ER bill is protected
Under the No Surprises Act, you're protected from surprise out-of-network ER bills.
Ask about observation vs. admission
Being 'under observation' vs. 'admitted' can dramatically change your costs and coverage.
Request an itemized bill
Always request an itemized bill from the ER. Errors are common and can add hundreds to your bill.