When it comes to getting blood work done, two names dominate the diagnostic testing market in the U.S.: Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics. Both operate thousands of locations across the country, both are trusted by doctors and insurance companies, and both provide accurate, reliable results.
But if you’re like most patients, one question matters most: “Which lab is cheaper—Labcorp or Quest?”
In this detailed 2025 comparison, we’ll break down pricing, insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, hidden fees, and convenience factors so you can make an informed decision before scheduling your next test.
Overview of Labcorp and Quest
Labcorp
- Operates over 2,000 locations nationwide
- Offers routine blood tests (CBC, cholesterol, glucose, thyroid, etc.) plus advanced testing (genetic, oncology, fertility)
- Widely accepted by insurance providers
- Known for strong partnerships with hospitals and research centers
Quest Diagnostics
- Over 2,200 locations nationwide (slightly more than Labcorp)
- Offers the same routine and advanced diagnostic tests
- Expanding at-home collection kits and digital test ordering options
- Strong presence in urban areas, more online-friendly for patients
Price Comparison (2025)
⚠️ Note: Prices may vary by region, insurance, and provider contracts. Below are average self-pay prices in 2025 for common tests.
| Test Type | Labcorp Avg. Cost | Quest Avg. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | $35 – $45 | $30 – $40 | Quest slightly cheaper |
| Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) | $45 – $55 | $40 – $50 | Quest cheaper in most regions |
| Lipid Panel (Cholesterol) | $50 – $60 | $55 – $65 | Labcorp cheaper |
| Thyroid Panel (TSH, T4) | $60 – $70 | $55 – $65 | Quest slightly cheaper |
| Hemoglobin A1C (Diabetes) | $35 – $45 | $30 – $40 | Quest cheaper |
| Vitamin D Test | $55 – $65 | $60 – $70 | Labcorp cheaper |
| STD Panel (Basic) | $200 – $250 | $190 – $240 | Quest cheaper overall |
| COVID-19 PCR | $100 – $120 | $95 – $110 | Almost identical |
👉 Winner in raw cost: Quest Diagnostics comes out slightly cheaper in most categories, especially for routine blood work (CBC, A1C, BMP). However, Labcorp is often competitive or cheaper for cholesterol and Vitamin D panels.
Insurance Coverage
Both labs are in-network with major insurance companies (Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, BlueCross).
- Labcorp: Stronger contracts with Medicare/Medicaid in many states.
- Quest: Broader coverage with employer-sponsored plans.
👉 Verdict: If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket costs at Labcorp and Quest will usually be the same, depending on your plan. Without insurance, Quest tends to be cheaper.
Convenience and Hidden Costs
- Appointment Scheduling: Both allow online booking, but Quest has a more user-friendly digital portal.
- Wait Times: Labcorp tends to be less crowded in suburban areas; Quest has more urban coverage.
- Hidden Fees: Some patients report “processing” or “collection” fees ($5–15) at both labs. These vary by location.
Patient Experience & Reviews
- Labcorp: Known for professionalism, but sometimes criticized for longer wait times.
- Quest: Better rated for convenience and digital experience, though some locations get complaints about staff.
Sample review quotes:
- Labcorp patient: “They handled my blood draw quickly, but I waited nearly 45 minutes past my appointment.”
- Quest patient: “Booking online was simple, and I was in and out in 15 minutes.”
Which Lab is Cheaper Overall?
- For uninsured patients → Quest Diagnostics is usually the cheaper choice.
- For insured patients → Costs are nearly identical, depending on your insurance plan.
- For specialty tests (hormones, genetics, oncology) → Both labs charge premium rates, but Quest often has more bundled pricing for panels.
👉 Bottom Line:
- Choose Quest Diagnostics if you’re paying cash or need fast, routine tests.
- Choose Labcorp if you’re insured with Medicare/Medicaid, or need specific panels (like cholesterol, vitamin D).
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👉 Both are equally accurate. Both labs are CLIA-certified and follow strict federal quality standards.
👉 Generally no. Quest Diagnostics is usually cheaper for most routine blood tests, but Labcorp may be cheaper for specific panels like cholesterol or vitamin D.
👉 Both labs typically return results within 24–48 hours for routine tests. Quest has a slightly better digital platform for patients to access results online.
