How Much Is It to Skydive in STL?

Skydiving is an epic way to see the world from a whole new perspective that is sure to leave an everlasting impression on your life, and St. Louis offers an unforgettable skydiving experience for anyone who is ready to take on the skies.

One of the most common questions for those seriously considering jumping from a perfectly good airplane is: how much does it cost to skydive? While some may use the cost to go skydiving as an excuse to not jump (don’t!), others need to know the cost to start budgeting for their first skydive, rally a skydiving group together, or purchase a gift certificate. Whatever the reason, let’s break down skydiving prices in St. Louis, discuss what’s included in the skydiving cost, and why it is worth every single penny!

How Much Is It to Skydive?

Skydiving costs vary significantly across the United States. On average, a tandem skydive from an altitude of 10,000 to 14,000 feet costs between $200 and $300 per jump. Here are the factors that typically affect the cost of a skydive:

1. Location

The location of the dropzone where you jump has a lot to do with the cost as it affects the local operational costs, demand, and the quality of the views from altitude. Some dropzones are more experienced than others or follow a higher standard, which can determine the cost as well.

2. Type of Jump

The type of jump you are doing determines the skydiving cost. Tandem skydives are priced higher than solo jumps or licensed skydiver jump tickets because of all that goes into a tandem jump. Tandem jumps require the expertise of certified instructors who undergo extensive training and have hundreds (oftentimes thousands) of jumps under their belt. Tandem jumps also use specialized tandem equipment that must be maintained to the highest standard.

3. Altitude

The altitude from which you exit the airplane is another determining factor when purchasing a skydive as it requires a more powerful aircraft to reach higher heights. At Skydive STL we exit at 10,000 feet.

4. Additional Costs

Skydiving Media Packages

Most dropzones will give you the option to add a photo or video package to your tandem skydive to capture your big moment. At Skydive STL, we offer several media packages to fulfill your unique wants and needs. Our Photo Package includes high definition photos of your skydive, the Social Package features a social media highlight video and photo gallery, and the Ultimate Package includes a five minute video, a social media video, and photo gallery!

Special Skydiving Tandem Package Deals

Some skydiving centers will offer special packages and deals. For example, Skydive STL offers two tandem skydive packages that actually include photos or videos in the price! We also have special proposal packages for those looking to pop the question in a unique and unforgettable way. Some dropzones offer fantastic seasonal promotions throughout the year – check out our Holiday Sale!

Additional Weight Charge

It’s normal for a dropzone to charge an additional fee for anyone who is above their specific skydiving weight limit. This limit is to ensure proper fit and integrity of the tandem equipment. At Skydive STL, our weight limit is 260 pounds and factors in the physical ability and height to weight proportion of the tandem skydiver. We charge $1 per pound for anyone over 200 pounds.

How Much Is Skydiving in STL?

Skydive STL is the closest Missouri dropzone to The Mound City! We specialize in tandem skydiving, which means our first-timers have our full attention – you can rest assured you’ll be getting first-class treatment.

We are also a USPA Group Member Dropzone, which means that we pledge to adhere to the high-quality standards set forth by the United States Parachute Association. We comply with USPA Basic Safety Requirements and use only USPA-certified instructors and approved USPA-required equipment. The USPA also works closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and has implemented specific protocols and safety guidelines based on FAA standards. Being a USPA Member Dropzone gives our guests the peace of mind that we prioritize safety above all else.

Here is a price comparison breakdown for a few skydiving dropzones located in the St. Louis, Missouri area as of November 2024:

Why is Skydiving Expensive?

Skydiving is often perceived as a costly adventure activity, but understanding what’s included helps to explain the price. The cost to skydive takes several factors into account:

1. Top-Notch Safety Equipment

The cost to jump covers the use of well-maintained, high-quality equipment and adherence to stringent safety protocols. Ensuring that gear is regularly inspected and repaired by an FAA-certified parachute rigger is a cost consideration as well. 

2. Experienced Skydiving Instructors

You don’t want to jump out of an airplane with just any-old-one! You want the best of the best operating your parachute. We can assure you that you are in good hands with our USPA certified tandem instructors. Their expertise not only ensures a fun, safety-first skydive, they have the ability to enhance your overall experience with their knowledge and passion. Ask anyone who’s jumped before if they remember their tandem instructor’s name – bet they do!

3. Aircraft & Fuel Costs

There’s no skydiving without an airplane! And for anyone who knows anything about airplanes (or even for those who don’t know much about airplanes), one thing’s clear: airplanes aren’t exactly cheap. Operating aircraft capable of taking skydivers to jump altitude involves significant expense, including maintenance and fuel.

4. Operational Costs

Engaging a dedicated, professional, and passionate team to run a dropzone is of utmost importance – they’re the beating heart of the entire operation! And that’s exactly what we have over here at Skydive STL! Their compensation as well as maintaining the grounds for a nice, hazard-free landing, maintaining facilities, office needs, and other overhead costs are all factored into the price of a skydive.

Is Skydiving Worth it?

While the tandem skydiving cost in STL may seem significant at first glance, the value of an experience that will change your life forever far outweighs the price tag! Skydiving here offers a unique combination of an adrenaline rush, breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and iconic St. Louis Arch in the distance, and an unbelievable sense of accomplishment that will inspire you to take on other challenges that life throws at you. 

Many adventure seekers view skydiving as the ultimate bucket-list activity, a milestone celebration – even a way to feel closer to the beyond – making it a worthy investment you’ll never forget.

Ready to go on one of the best adventure experiences in St. Louis? Book your skydive at Skydive STL! Blue skies!