Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in District of Columbia (2026)

10.5% above average — premium pricing market · DC

District of Columbia Average

$38,675

Typical Range

$22,100 – $55,250

National Average

$35,000

▲ +10.5% above national average

Knee Replacement Surgery in District of Columbia: What to Know

For knee replacement surgery in the District of Columbia, The George Washington University Hospital stands out, being the first in D.C. to perform minimally invasive "quad sparing" knee replacements and utilize the ROSA® Robotic Surgical Assistant for improved accuracy. GW Hospital also earned the Blue Distinction® Center for Knee and Hip Replacement designation from CareFirst BlueCross® BlueShield® in 2020, reflecting their commitment to quality care. VHC Health, serving the Arlington & DC Metro area, offers certified knee and hip replacement programs, including comprehensive preoperative classes.

Patients seeking more affordable options should consider Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) in the District of Columbia, which generally offer lower costs than outpatient hospitals for knee replacement. Washington Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine (WOSM) provides robotic-assisted outpatient total joint replacement, potentially offering a more streamlined experience. Verify current pricing directly with providers.

Estimated Cost Breakdown in District of Columbia

Patients in District of Columbia face some of the highest knee replacement surgery costs nationwide. Here's how the premium distributes across the bill.

Component	Estimated Range
Facility Fee	$8,121 - $15,083
Surgeon Fee	$8,121 - $15,083
Implants Supplies	$4,060 - $7,542
Post Op Care	$4,060 - $7,542
Anesthesia	$2,707 - $5,028
Total Estimated Cost	$22,100 – $55,250

Based on CMS Medicare data and regional price parities. Learn about our methodology →

Ranges adjusted for District of Columbia's regional price parity (110.5). See the national percentage breakdown →

Facility Costs in District of Columbia

You can get knee replacement surgery at hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers across District of Columbia. The table below shows real negotiated rates from CMS Medicare data — not sticker prices.

Facility	City	Negotiated Rate	Medicare Payment	Volume
Sibley Memorial Hospital	Washington	$13,685	$12,084	481
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital	Washington	$13,551	$11,955	209
Medstar Washington Hospital Center	Washington	$13,677	$12,075	116
George Washington Univ Hospital	Washington	$13,657	$12,053	111

Facility	City	Negotiated Rate	Medicare Payment	Volume
Sibley Memorial Hospital	Washington	$14,783	$12,452	39
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital	Washington	$23,471	$15,994	31
Medstar Washington Hospital Center	Washington	$20,420	$15,291	24
George Washington Univ Hospital	Washington	$21,180	$18,056	18

Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in Neighboring States

Among neighboring states, District of Columbia has the highest knee replacement surgery costs. Patients near the border may find savings nearby.

Knee Replacement Surgery in District of Columbia: Common Questions

How much does knee replacement surgery cost in District of Columbia?

The average cost of knee replacement surgery in District of Columbia is $38,675. Prices typically range from $22,100 to $55,250, depending on the facility, provider, and your specific case.

Why are knee replacement surgery prices higher in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia's elevated knee replacement surgery costs reflect broader economic factors. The state's cost of living index (110.5) drives up overhead for medical practices, and that cost gets passed through to patients — resulting in prices 10.5% above the national benchmark.

Will my health insurance pay for knee replacement surgery?

Yes — knee replacement surgery is generally covered by insurance in District of Columbia when your doctor documents medical necessity. Expect to pay your deductible and copay, but the bulk of the $38,675 cost should be covered by your plan.

When can I return to work after knee replacement surgery?

Recovery after knee replacement surgery typically takes 42 to 120 days. Most patients can handle light activities after 42 days, with full recovery by 120 days. Plan for time off work and factor in the cost of follow-up visits, medications, and any post-operative care when budgeting beyond the procedure cost itself.

Are payment plans available for knee replacement surgery in District of Columbia?

Financing knee replacement surgery in District of Columbia is straightforward. Options include medical credit lines (CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit), your surgeon's in-house installment plan, or HSA/FSA dollars if the procedure has a medical component. Always compare the total cost with interest against a cash-pay discount.

What should I look for in a District of Columbia knee replacement surgery provider?

Start with case volume — facilities that perform more procedures generally have better outcomes. In District of Columbia, also compare hospital vs. ambulatory surgery center pricing (ASCs can be 30-50% cheaper) and check whether your insurance network includes the facility.

Is it worth traveling to another state for knee replacement surgery?

Yes — Virginia offers knee replacement surgery at an average of $36,120, which is $2,555 less than District of Columbia. Factor in travel costs, follow-up visit logistics, and whether your insurance network covers out-of-state providers before making the trip.

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