Chances are, skydiving is on your list of things to do at some point in your life, or maybe you know someone who has this on their list. Regardless of the situation, it’s essential that you know the price of such a venture beforehand.
The average cost to skydive is about $225. However, it can be as low as $99 or as high as $3,500 for a halo skydive. The price will depend on whether you’re doing a tandem or solo dive and the altitude from which you jump.
There’s a lot more that goes into the price of skydiving. Therefore, below, I will break it down for you so you can see the price variations across the USA and the world and what’s included.
Is Skydiving Expensive?
Skydiving can be expensive, and one of the main reasons why skydiving is expensive is due to the equipment and people involved.
It also requires the use of highly qualified individuals. In California, it is required that dropzones hire their staff members as employees. We support this standard and recognize that it can affect overhead.
The price of a tandem jump is often influenced by the type of equipment the facility uses and the instructor’s qualifications and experience.
You can spends tens of thousands to skydive in locations such as Antarctica, but these tours are typically long excursions that include much more than a skydive.
What’s the Average Cost of a Skydiving Trip?
Although skydiving can cost around $100 to $400, you might spend more due to the experience. Before jumping off the plane, you should ask yourself a few questions: Would you like to take pictures and videos of your experience? Also, are you planning on doing it again with others?
What Costs to Consider When Going Skydiving?
Something that many people overlook when planning a skydive is the other costs associated with it. These prices will vary depending on several factors that I will discuss below.
Tandem vs. Solo Skydiving
There are two ways to compare the cost of a solo and tandem dive. With a solo dive, you have to be licensed, so if you are looking at the comparison from this perspective, you will need to have 25 jumps under your belt to be able to test for your USPA “A” license.
To get technical, 25 jumps at around $225 a piece will cost about $5,625. Then, it’s approximately $3,000 to $4,000 for your USPA A license, not including the gear’s cost.
Learn all about skydiving licenses here.
Now, let’s assume you have all these things… It usually costs around $99 for a solo dive instead of $225 and above for a tandem dive. However, you could always become an instructor and jump for free!
Travel Costs to the Drop Zone
Most people must travel quite a ways to get to their drop zone or the facility. Some facilities will bring you to the drop zone, while others require you to get there yourself. So, be prepared with $20 extra if you drive your car to the location.
Potential Overnight Stay
Let’s assume that the facility you chose is a few hours away from your home; you won’t want to drive those few hours back after you dive.
Therefore, ensuring you have a hotel room booked near your facility is a good idea. Depending on the type of accommodation you’re hoping for, you can expect to pay between $70 and $150.
Photos and Videos
Not all skydives come with the photos and videos package unless you specifically opt for it. Depending on where you’re jumping, I’ve paid as little as $79 to as much as $189. However, the $189 had two videographers joining you and making a jump collaboration, which is pretty neat.
Tipping Your Instructor
Something many people forget to think about is a tip for their instructor. This doesn’t have to be much! Some people tip just $5 or $10, while others have been known to tip their instructors over $100. It just depends on what you can afford.
How Much is Skydiving for Your First Time Ever?
The price of tandem skydiving depends on the height of the jump. Since the plane will have to climb higher, the distance traveled will take longer. Here are some of the average prices depending on the altitude:
- $180: 10,000 feet tandem jump
- $220: 15,000 feet tandem jump
- $280: 18,000 feet tandem jump
Remember that prices can differ based on location and what company you are with.
What’s Included in a Tandem Skydive?
This section provides a brief overview of the equipment utilized in tandem skydiving. It also explains how it works, the safety features, and what happens during each jump.
The instructor is solely responsible for the operation of the tandem parachute system. As a student, you must refrain from interfering with this process. You should also ask your instructor any questions before your jump.
Student Harness
The student harness is equipment that a student uses during a skydive. It has four connection points on its back, which are located at the hips and shoulders and attach the parachute to the body.
Before a student jumps, they are fitted with the harness by the instructor. This ensures that they have a safe and comfortable experience.
Tandem Parachute System
The equipment utilized by a tandem master when they jump is referred to as a tandem rig or parachute. These systems share many of the elements used by skydivers.
Training
The training session is also included in your tandem skydive. When you reach the facility, you will meet with your instructor and other crew members who will take you through a short training course.
They will discuss ins and outs of what you can expect and what you need to do for your jump. This will include breathing techniques and body positions during different phases of the skydive.
Flight To Altitude
Upon reaching the plane, you will meet with your instructor and begin the skydiving experience of a lifetime. The tandem dive cost includes the flight up to altitude, so you won’t have to worry about paying that separately unless you’re diving in Jordan.
Skydive Freefall
Upon reaching the ground after your tandem skydive, you will receive a certificate that will allow you to commemorate your first experience with skydiving. This is because skydiving is a big deal, and we want to ensure you can remember it for a long time.
How Much Does It Cost to Solo Skydive?
If you’re only interested in solo skydiving, and you own your own gear, you can jump for around $25 to $50 depending on the location, and if you have the necessary USPA certification.
You’ll need the “A” license from the US Parachute Association to conduct solo jumps. Getting this type of license can be a lengthy process and cost around $3,000.
How Much Does Skydiving Gear Cost?
After looking into various sources, including online forums and websites, I came up with a detailed rough estimate of low end costs and high end costs:
| Skydiving Equipment | Low
(Used) |
Low
(New) |
High
(Used) |
High
(New) |
| AAD | $300 | $900 | $475 | $1,300 |
| Altimeter | $70 | $100 | $115 | $400 |
| Canopy | $225 | $2,000 | $800 | $4,000 |
| Container | $200 | $1700 | $2000 | $3,000 |
| Skydiving Helmet | $30 | $100 | $125 | $500 |
| Reserve Chute | $275 | $1,500 | $500 | $2,000 |
| Rig (Full) | $2,300 | $5,000 | $6,300 | $10,000 |
| Tandem Harness | $350 | $2,500 | $875 | $4,700 |
How Much Skydiving Costs Based on Location:
Where can I find the best places to skydive? Is going to a specific region of the world worthwhile? Different countries have a wide range of prices, but some may be cheaper than others. This breakdown shows the countries with the most affordable and most expensive skydiving locations. Check out the chart below to compare skydiving among different countries:
| Country | Low | Average | High | Rules |
| USA | $99 | $225 | $3,500 | · Must be 18
· Kids allowed at non-USPA affiliated dropzones. · Must weigh under 230 lbs |
| Italy | $74 | $224 | $1,400 | · Must be 16
· Must be 220 lbs |
| Panama | $120 | $240 | $500 | · Must be 18
· $60 surcharge is you weigh between 231 and 250 · Must be under 250 lbs |
| Costa Rica | $210 | $300 | $418 | · Must weigh under 209 lbs
· Must be 18 and over · Cannot jump if you’ve recently donated blood |
| Brazil | $55 | $100 | $250 | · Must be under 268 lbs
· At least 18 years old |
| Jordan | $189 | $289 | $425 | · Jordan charges each leg of the trip separately. For instance, you pay for the plane, the jump, the photos and the ride to the drop zone separately.
· Must be 18 or older. · Must be under 220 lb |
| Dubai | $175 | $400 | $556 | · Kids must be at least 12 for tandem.
· Must be 18 for solo dive · Weigh less than 198 lbs |
| Indonesia | $105 | $200 | $390 | · Must be at least 16
· Must be under 275 lbs · |
| Philippines | $390 | $430 | $600 | · For $55 extra you can skydive over white beaches
· Must be 16 and older. · Cannot weigh more than 250 lbs |
| Australia | $295 | $340 | $600 | · Must be at least 16 or older
· 207 lb – 229 lb: $35 surcharge · 231 lb – 251 lb: $52 surcharge · 255 lb+ : $70 surcharge · Most drop zones won’t allow anyone over 250 lbs. |
| New Zealand | $279 | $320 | $450 | · No age restrictions
· Anyone under 18 needs parental permission · Must be under 220 lbs |
| Zambia | $40 | $300 | $450 | · Must be at least 16
· Weigh less than 242 lbs |
| Canada | $99 | $200 | $250 | · Must be at least 16 years old
· Must weigh between 90lb to 220 lb · Anyone over 40 needs a permission letter from their family doctor. |
| India | $293 | $395 | $790 | · Must be at least 16
· Weigh less than 198 lbs |
| Germany | $80 | $160 | $330 | · Must be at least 12 years of age
· Weigh less than 198 lbs |
| UK | $220 | $240 | $399 | · Must be at least 16
· Males weigh less than 224 lbs · Females weigh less than 196 lbs · Note with doctor’s permission if over the age of 70. |
| Antarctica | — | $33,000 | — | · Experienced divers only
· Must be over 18 · Must be physically fit and height/weight proportionate · Travel costs included ***See below for more details |
| Switzerland | $290 | $391 | $475 | · Must be under 220 lbs
· Be at least 88 lbs · Be at least 12 years old |
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in Mexico?
One jump costs between $2,000 and $3,000 in Mexico pesos (or 180 to 270 USD). Many of the facilities also provide professional video recording as an extra service to document your adventure.
Many tourism companies offer tandem jumps and these can cost anywhere from $250 to $600 USD, each tour is operated independently and since Mexico is a large tourism location, some popular places may charge more based on demand.
See Mexico Skydiving Tours & Prices Here:
- Tandem Skydive in Puerto Vallarta With Beach Landing
- Skydiving in Los Cabos Operated by Best Tours in Mexico
- Extreme Adventure: Indoor Skydiving and other Tours
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in Canada?
A tandem skydive will cost anywhere between $99 to $250. This price will change depending on altitude as well as the location where you jump. Keep in mind that if you’re over 40 you will need permission from a doctor before they’ll let you jump.
See Canada Tandem Skydiving Tours & Prices Here:
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in Australia?
Skydiving in Australia will cost between $295 and $600, the more expensive being an accelerated freefall. Skydiving costs much more in Australia due to it not being as dominant of a sport as it is in the USA.
See Australia Tandem Skydiving Tours & Prices Here:
- Gold Coast Tandem Skydive
- Wollongong Tandem Skydiving
- Airlie Beach Tandem Skydive
- Melbourne Tandem Skydive 14,000ft With Beach Landing
- Skydive Sydney-Newcastle up to 15,000ft Tandem Skydive
- Skydive Perth From 15000ft With Beach Landing
- Reef and Rainforest Tandem Sky Dive in Cairns
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in Dubai?
You can expect to pay between $175 and $556 to skydive in Dubai. There are many different places that offer different deals, including first time skydiver, or a group rate.
See Dubai Skydiving Tours & Prices Here:
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in India?
To skydive in India you can expect to pay between $293 and $790 with the higher amount being an accelerated free fall jump. Keep in mind that you must be older that 16 and under 193 pounds.
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in New Zealand?
New Zealand is also a bit more expensive when it comes to skydiving as it will cost around $320 on average, however the dives typically include photos and videos.
See New Zealand Skydiving Tours & Prices Here:
- 15,000ft Tandem Skydive in Bay of Plenty
- Tandem Skydive 20,000ft from Franz Josef
- Tandem Skydive 13,000ft from Franz Josef
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in Switzerland?
In Switzerland you will pay an average of $391 for skydiving, however, the video and photo package is typically included in this, as well as the gear and flight to altitude.
Can You Skydive In Antarctica?
Yes! You can skydive in Antarctica, but the cost will be around $30,000. However, this is for more than just the skydive. There is much more to the price; Swoop Antarctica says this is what is included:
- 7-day trip
- Checked luggage from 88lbs and under
- Two jumps over Union Glacier
- Round trip flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to Antarctica
- Airport transfer in Chile
- Meals and accommodations
- Skydive master and guides
- Certificate and celebration dinner
However, some things are not covered by this price which you will need to look into yourself; these items include:
- Insurance
- Your flight to and from Chile and your country of residence
- Meals or accommodation in Punta Arenas
- Satellite phone chargers
- Any flights within Antarctica
- Personal clothing or equipment
It can reach -67 Fahrenheit in Antarctica, so you must ensure you are 100% prepared to travel there.
Read our detailed guide on skydiving in Antarctica here.
How Much Does Skydiving Cost in the United States?
The average cost of a jump in the USA is about $250. With it, you can jump out of an airplane in tandem while being connected to a highly qualified, experienced instructor using skydiving gear.
Let’s take a closer look at how much skydiving costs in each state:
| State | Average Skydiving Cost | Max Weight Restriction |
| Alabama | $224 | 260 lbs |
| Alaska | $239 | 230 lbs |
| Arizona | $160 | 240 lbs |
| Arkansas | $199 | 225 lbs |
| California | $200 | 240 lbs |
| Colorado | $199 | 260 lbs |
| Connecticut | $225 | 230 lbs |
| Delaware | $189 | 200 lbs |
| Florida | $199 | 230 lbs |
| Georgia | $225 | 254 lbs |
| Hawaii | $250 | 240 lbs |
| Idaho | $270 | 250 lbs |
| Illinois | $180 | 250 lbs |
| Indiana | $252 | 235 lbs |
| Iowa | $265 | 240 lbs |
| Kansas | $210 | 220 lbs men/ 180 lbs female |
| Kentucky | $194 | 230 lbs |
| Louisiana | $210 | 230 lbs |
| Maine | $220 | 240 lbs |
| Maryland | $189 | 235 lbs |
| Massachusetts | $240 | 250 lbs |
| Michigan | $199 | 240 lbs |
| Minnesota | $210 | 250 lbs |
| Mississippi | $172 | 215 lbs |
| Montana | $289 | 254 lbs |
| Nebraska | $165 | 220 lbs men / 200 lbs women |
| Nevada | $159 | 250 lbs |
| New Hampshire | $219 | 250 lbs |
| New Jersey | $255 | 250 lbs men / 220 lbs women |
| New Mexico | $310 | 220 lbs |
| New York | $240 | 225 lbs |
| North Carolina | $225 | 220 lbs |
| North Dakota | $265 | 250 lbs |
| Ohio | $240 | 225 lbs |
| Oklahoma | $200 | 250 lbs |
| Oregon | $175 | 230 lbs men / 200 lbs women |
| Pennsylvania | $195 | 230 lbs |
| Rhode Island | $240 | 250 lbs men / 220 lbs women |
| South Carolina | $225 | 220 lbs |
| South Dakota | $278 | 215 lbs |
| Tennessee | $219 | 254 lbs |
| Texas | $208 | 250 lbs |
| Utah | $260 | 250 lbs |
| Vermont | $230 | 230 lbs |
| Virginia | $220 | 220 lbs |
| Washington | $180 | 230 lbs |
| West Virginia | $225 | 220 lbs |
| Wisconsin | $165 | 260 lbs |
| Wyoming | $200 | 254 lbs |
Read our related post “How Old Do You Have to Be to Go Skydiving? here.”
Can You Pay for Professional Photos During Your Skydive?
When you opt for the professional photos and videos package, you can expect to receive professional quality results. The best thing about outside video and images is that your videographer may fly around you while the jump is happening because they are not tethered to you.
As a result, you’ll see both yourself and the views around you in 360 degrees. They can frequently catch you landing as well! The drawback is that no under-canopy film will be available.
Since other parachutes are prohibited from flying too close to you for safety reasons, you can only take photos of the parachute ride up close using an instructor’s hand-mounted camera.
Are There Any Other Costs to Worry About?
It’s important to make sure you have all your bases covered when it comes to the cost of skydiving. Always check to see what’s included at the facility where you jump. Also, make sure you bring that case of beer! You’ll want to have that ready, especially if your facility follows skydiving traditions. Also, don’t forget a pie for your face!
Read our related post “5 Reasons Why Skydiving is Worth Every Penny” here.
Jamie is the founder of Action Sporter. He is the chief zipline writer and the lead editor. He has 5 years of zipline experience being a tour guide in Newfoundland. Most of the time you can find Jamie adventure traveling, hiking, skiing, skateboarding, or anything action related!