how much is an ancestry test

3 min read 17-12-2024

Meta Description: Discover the cost of ancestry DNA tests in 2024! We break down pricing from top brands like AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage, and Living DNA, comparing features and helping you choose the best test for your budget. Learn about sales, discounts, and what factors influence the final price.

Want to unlock the secrets of your family history? Ancestry DNA testing can be a fascinating journey, but the first question many people ask is: how much does it cost? The price of an ancestry test varies depending on several factors, including the brand, the features included, and any current sales or promotions. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs of popular ancestry tests and help you choose the best option for your budget.

Understanding Ancestry Test Pricing

The price of an ancestry DNA test typically ranges from $59 to over $100. However, this is just a general range. Several factors affect the final cost:

Brand: Different companies offer varying features and levels of detail, impacting price.
Sales and Discounts: Many companies run sales throughout the year, offering significant discounts.
Additional Features: Some tests offer extras like health reports or more in-depth ethnicity estimations, increasing the cost.
Kit Contents: The components included (e.g., cheek swab vs. saliva collection) might influence pricing, although this is less common.

Popular Ancestry Test Brands and Their Prices

Let's look at the pricing of some of the most popular ancestry DNA testing services:

AncestryDNA

Typical Price: $99
Features: Focuses primarily on ethnicity estimation and finding living relatives. Access to extensive genealogical records is often a significant selling point.
Sales: AncestryDNA frequently offers sales, often around holidays, bringing the price down considerably.

23andMe

Typical Price: $99-$199 (depending on whether you opt for the Ancestry + Health package)
Features: Offers both ancestry and health reports. The health reports include information on genetic predispositions to certain conditions.
Sales: Similar to AncestryDNA, 23andMe has periodic sales and promotions.

MyHeritage DNA

Typical Price: Around $79
Features: Known for its strong focus on ethnicity estimation and family tree building tools. It also offers extensive historical records.
Sales: MyHeritage frequently offers discounts and bundles.

Living DNA

Typical Price: Around $99-$129 (depending on the package selected)
Features: Specializes in deep regional analysis for British Isles ancestry. Offers both ancestry and health reports.
Sales: Living DNA occasionally runs sales events.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ancestry Test

Price is just one element of the decision. Consider these factors:

Your Goals: Are you primarily interested in ethnicity estimation, finding relatives, or exploring your family history through records? Some tests excel in certain areas.
Data Privacy: Read the privacy policies carefully. Understand how the company handles your data and whether it shares information with third parties.
Features: Compare the features offered by each company. Do you need health reports, or are you solely focused on ancestry?
Reviews: Read reviews from other users to understand their experiences with different services.

Where to Find the Best Deals

To find the best deals on ancestry tests:

Check Company Websites: Regularly visit the websites of the companies you're interested in.
Sign Up for Emails: Subscribe to their email lists to receive notifications of sales and promotions.
Look for Coupon Codes: Search online for current coupon codes and discounts.

Conclusion

The cost of an ancestry test varies, but generally falls within the $60-$150 range. The best test for you depends on your budget and your specific needs. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and comparing the offerings of various companies, you can choose the ancestry DNA test that best suits your requirements and provides the most valuable insights into your family history without breaking the bank. Remember to factor in potential sales and promotions to get the best possible price.