What Will it Cost?
Value cannot be determined by costs alone, but is based on the researcher’s experience, knowledge of the area or subject under consideration, availability to do the project in the time required, etc. Beware of any professional researcher making claims to solve your research problem for XXX number of generations for XXX amount of dollars. An ethical genealogist will search the records and do everything possible to solve your research problem. No researcher can guarantee that your family will be found in the records. Sometimes information cannot be found.It may take several research projects to solve some difficult problems. Accredited Genealogist professionals are tested on their abilities to locate the best sources as fast as possible to solve research cases in specific regions. But there are no guarantees of absolute success.
Some costs you may encounter, include:
Retainer
Most genealogists request a retainer fee upfront, especially for large or long-term projects. This fee often covers initial research, and additional fees are charged as the project progresses. These costs may be in addition to the hourly rate or may be included in a package.
Hourly Rate
Many professional genealogists charge between $50 and $200 per hour. Factors affecting the hourly rates include the genealogist’s experience and credentials; geographical focus of the research; and the complexity of the client’s research goals. (e.g., solving difficult family mysteries).
Project-Based Rate
Some genealogists offer flat fees for specific projects, which can vary based on scope: basic family tree research may cost $500 to $5,000. Simple projects like a 3–4 generation family tree or tracing specific ancestry lines may fall within this range. Comprehensive family histories may cost $5,000 to $25,000. Multi-generational research or historical narrative creation can be much more expensive, especially if it includes travel, document retrieval, or complex problem-solving.
Document Retrieval and Analysis
Some genealogists charge separately for obtaining vital records, census data, or immigration documents, especially if these are from archives or repositories that charge for access.
Travel Expenses
If on-site research is required, clients may need to cover travel expenses such as airfare, lodging, and meals. This is common when research is needed in specific locations, such as ancestral towns, archives, or courthouses.
Specialty Services
Specialty services such as DNA interpretation, can range from $100 to $1,000 depending on the complexity of the analysis.
Genealogical research used in legal cases (e.g., probate, inheritance) may require expert testimony. Costs may range from $150 to $500 per hour. (plus expenses).
Hiring a genealogist can be tailored to a client’s specific needs and budget, from hourly consultations to comprehensive ancestry projects. The genealogist will make every effort to adhere to the client’s budget, provided that it is reasonable.
Search our directory to find a qualified, accredited professional specializing in the area needed.