By focusing on the cheapest available boarding options—while excluding in-home providers and bundled or hourly packages—we’ve compiled an unbiased snapshot of what real businesses charge from coast to coast. Whether you’re a facility owner seeking competitive rates or just curious about what others pay, these insights will help you see where you stand nationally and within your region.
Despite a national average of $44.99, prices for basic boarding vary widely. The lowest published rate we uncovered was just $10 per night, while high-end facilities charged as much as $180. A more grounded figure is the median price of $42, giving you a midpoint between the lowest and highest rates out there.
Our data also highlights that certain regions can be twice as pricey as others:
The average price for the most expensive area (DC) was twice the cost of the least expensive state (Mississippi). Northeast & west states also tend to have higher boarding rates.
Unsurprisingly, states with large metro areas tend to have higher boarding fees overall.
For example, Washington, D.C. showed the highest average rate at $62.47, nearly double Mississippi’s $31.24
Some states not only trend higher or lower overall—they also show more dramatic swings between their cheapest and most expensive facilities. Below, you can see which states have the highest and lowest pricing variability (standard deviation).
Lowest Maximum Price: Mississippi’s maximum basic boarding rate is just $55—less than one-third of New York’s peak price.
Highest Maximum Price: New York tops out at $180 per night, followed closely by California at $175.
Best Discounts:
Washington, D.C. (65% off) and Delaware (52% off) the single-dog rate.
Highest Additional-Dog Rate:
California leads again, charging $51.77 per night for your second pup.
Smallest Discounts:
Arkansas (13% off) and California (14% off), where a second dog costs nearly the same as the first.
Disclaimer: All pricing data is based on publicly listed, cheapest available rates for small dogs at boarding and daycare facilities.
This research excludes in-home providers and per-hour or bundled pricing. Prices are subject to change.
View state-level statistics by exploring the map below.