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Direct questions

10. How much does an AI voice agent cost?

Trace Margin research deskSection 01Page 10 of 33Last updated

Published prices use different units and inclusions, so there is no single meaningful all-in price per minute. Obtain a configuration-specific quote covering software, telephony, support, implementation and ongoing operation.

Public pricing examples reviewed on 23 October 2026—not equivalent offers:

Supplier Published pricing evidence What the buyer must clarify
Retell AI Advertises $0.07–$0.31 per voice-agent minute and lists component pricing. Selected model, voice, telephony, optional features and enterprise services. (retellai.com)
Vapi Lists $0.05 per minute for hosting, with model-provider charges passed through; support packages are additional. Speech, model, voice, transport, governance and support requirements. (vapi.ai)
Bland Its Start plan lists $0.14 per connected minute and a $0.05 transfer-time rate; other plans have different charges. The precise treatment of connected and transferred time, phone configuration and plan fees. (docs.bland.ai)

These are advertised terms, not negotiated contract evidence or a market-average range. Do not use the lowest displayed rate as a complete deployment budget.

Packaging can materially change the answer. Vapi’s public page, for example, lists a $2,000 monthly HIPAA add-on. Its documentation also distinguishes the current package model from legacy customer arrangements. Confirm applicability before using either in your comparison. (vapi.ai)

Ask each shortlisted supplier to price the same monthly call distribution, including transfers, peak demand and exceptions.