National Average Cost of a Prenuptial Agreement
The national average cost of a prenuptial agreement drafted by an attorney is $2,500–$5,000 for a straightforward agreement. Complex agreements involving significant assets, business interests, or multiple properties can cost $10,000 or more.
Cost by State
| State | Average Attorney Cost | Property System |
|---|---|---|
| California | $2,500–$10,000 | Community Property |
| New York | $2,500–$10,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Texas | $1,500–$6,000 | Community Property |
| Florida | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Illinois | $2,000–$7,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Washington | $1,500–$5,500 | Community Property |
| Pennsylvania | $1,500–$5,500 | Equitable Distribution |
| Ohio | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Georgia | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| North Carolina | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Michigan | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| New Jersey | $2,000–$7,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Virginia | $1,500–$5,500 | Equitable Distribution |
| Arizona | $1,500–$5,000 | Community Property |
| Colorado | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Tennessee | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Minnesota | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
| Nevada | $1,500–$5,000 | Community Property |
| Wisconsin | $1,500–$5,000 | Community Property |
| Oregon | $1,500–$5,000 | Equitable Distribution |
Factors That Affect Prenuptial Agreement Cost
- Complexity: Simple agreements with straightforward asset division cost less than complex ones involving businesses, real estate portfolios, or significant investments
- Attorney Experience: More experienced family law attorneys typically charge higher hourly rates
- Geographic Location: Attorneys in major metropolitan areas charge more than those in smaller cities or rural areas
- Number of Revisions: More negotiation and revision rounds increase costs
- Both Parties’ Attorneys: Each party should have independent counsel, which can double total costs
- Timeline: Rush agreements may incur premium charges
Ways to Reduce Prenuptial Agreement Costs
- Start early to avoid rush fees
- Use a free template as a starting point for attorney review
- Agree on key terms with your partner before meeting with attorneys
- Request a flat-fee quote
- Keep the agreement focused on key assets