Jose Mier, famous Sun Valley, CA faux genealogist, has written before on the costs of family history research. Again we discuss the ups and downs of tracing one’s family roots. It can vary as you can see in this U.S. News article.
Genealogy is a fascinating and rewarding pursuit, allowing individuals to trace their lineage, uncover family stories, and connect with their ancestral roots. However, the cost of genealogy research can vary significantly depending on whether one chooses to do it independently or hire a professional genealogist. While do-it-yourself (DIY) genealogy can be more affordable, it requires a significant time investment and knowledge of various research methods. On the other hand, hiring a professional can yield more accurate and in-depth results but at a higher financial cost. This article explores the expenses associated with both approaches, helping you determine the best option for your research needs.
The Cost of Doing Genealogy Research Yourself
For those who prefer to conduct their own genealogy research, costs are primarily associated with subscriptions to online databases, DNA testing, software tools, and travel expenses for in-person research. While some resources are free, accessing comprehensive and detailed records often requires a financial investment.
- Online Genealogy Services and Subscription Fees
One of the most significant costs for DIY genealogy is access to online databases and genealogy websites, which offer vast collections of historical records, census data, birth and death certificates, immigration documents, and more. The pricing for some of the most popular services is as follows:
- Ancestry.com:
- U.S. Discovery Plan: $24.99/month or $99 for six months
- World Explorer Plan: $39.99/month or $149 for six months
- All Access Plan (includes Fold3 & Newspapers.com): $49.99/month or $199 for six months
- MyHeritage:
- Premium Plan: $99/year
- PremiumPlus Plan: $139/year
- Complete Plan: $299/year
- Findmypast:
- Monthly subscriptions start at $14.95/month for British and Irish records
- FamilySearch.org:
- Free access to extensive records, although some collections are limited due to copyright restrictions
These subscription fees can add up quickly, especially for those needing access to international records or specialized collections.
- DNA Testing Costs
DNA testing has become an essential tool in modern genealogy research, helping individuals discover their ethnic origins, connect with distant relatives, and confirm family lineages. Several companies offer DNA testing services, each with different pricing structures:
- AncestryDNA: $99 (often discounted to around $59–$79 during sales)
- 23andMe:
- Ancestry + Traits: $119
- Health + Ancestry: $229
- FamilyTreeDNA:
- Family Finder (Autosomal DNA Test): $79
- Y-DNA and mtDNA tests for deeper paternal or maternal lineage research: $119–$399
- MyHeritage DNA: $89, often discounted to $59
- LivingDNA: $99, with regional ancestry breakdowns
While a basic DNA test provides valuable information, more advanced tests—such as Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) testing—can cost significantly more, especially for those seeking highly specific ancestral insights.
- Software and Record-Keeping Tools
Many genealogists rely on software tools to organize their research and build family trees. Some popular options include:
- Family Tree Maker: $79.95–$99.95, a one-time fee for lifetime use
- Legacy Family Tree: Free basic version; $34.95–$79.95 for the deluxe version
- RootsMagic: Free basic version; $39.95 for the full version
- Reunion (for Mac users): $99
While free online family tree builders exist, such as those on FamilySearch and Ancestry, premium software provides greater customization and privacy.
- Travel Costs for Genealogy Research
For those who need to visit archives, cemeteries, or ancestral hometowns, travel expenses can add up quickly. Costs may include:
- Gas or airfare: Depending on the destination, this can range from $50 to several thousand dollars for international trips.
- Lodging: If research requires an overnight stay, expect to pay $100–$300 per night for a hotel.
- Archive access fees: While many libraries and historical societies offer free access to records, some charge research or photocopying fees, typically $5–$50 per visit.
- Miscellaneous Costs
Other potential expenses for DIY genealogists include:
- Photocopies and document fees: Government agencies may charge $10–$25 per birth, marriage, or death certificate.
- Books and guides: Purchasing genealogy research books or historical texts can cost $20–$100 per book.
- Hiring translators: If dealing with foreign records, translation services may cost $30–$100 per document.
The Cost of Hiring a Professional Genealogist
For those who prefer a hands-off approach or need help with complex research, hiring a professional genealogist is a viable option. However, this comes at a significantly higher cost than DIY research.
- Hourly Rates for Genealogists
Professional genealogists typically charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience, expertise, and the complexity of the research. General price ranges include:
- Beginner/Intermediate Genealogists: $50–$100 per hour
- Experienced/Certified Genealogists: $100–$200 per hour
- Specialist Genealogists (e.g., forensic genealogy, dual citizenship applications, Native American ancestry research): $150–$500 per hour
Most professionals require a minimum of 10–20 hours of work, meaning a basic research project can cost anywhere from $500 to $4,000+.
- Research Packages
Some genealogists and research firms offer flat-rate research packages, which can be more cost-effective than hourly billing. Typical packages include:
- Basic Ancestry Research: $500–$1,500 for tracing 2–3 generations
- Comprehensive Family History Reports: $2,000–$5,000 for in-depth lineage tracking
- Dual Citizenship or Lineage Society Applications: $3,000–$10,000, especially for citizenship-by-descent cases (e.g., Irish, Italian, or German ancestry)
- DNA Analysis and Consultation Fees
Professional genetic genealogists can help analyze DNA results and interpret findings for an additional cost:
- Basic DNA Consultation: $100–$300 per session
- Advanced Genetic Research: $500–$3,000, especially for unknown parentage cases (e.g., adoptees searching for biological relatives)
- On-Site Research Fees
If professional genealogists need to travel to archives, courthouses, or cemeteries on your behalf, expect to pay:
- Daily research fees: $200–$500 per day
- Travel and lodging expenses: Varies depending on location, often billed separately
Weighing the Costs: DIY vs. Professional Genealogy
| Expense Category | DIY Genealogy Cost | Professional Genealogy Cost |
| Online Subscriptions | $100–$300/year | Included in service fees |
| DNA Testing | $59–$400 | $100–$3,000 for consultation |
| Software & Tools | $40–$100 | Included in service fees |
| Travel | $50–$3,000 | $200–$500 per day |
| Hourly Research | Free (your time) | $50–$500 per hour |
| Total Estimated Cost | $200–$5,000+ | $1,000–$10,000+ |
For hobbyists and those on a budget, DIY genealogy is the best option. However, for those with limited time or difficult-to-trace ancestry, hiring a professional may provide better results.
Genealogy research can range from an affordable personal project to a costly deep-dive into family history, depending on whether you take a DIY approach or hire a professional. While DIY research offers a cost-effective and rewarding experience, professional genealogists provide expertise and access to specialized resources that can streamline the process. Whether you’re tracing your roots for fun, verifying lineage for citizenship, or solving a family mystery, understanding the costs involved will help you make an informed decision on the best approach for your needs.