How Much Does Skydiving Cost in St. Louis? What’s Included

Key Takeaways
Wondering how expensive is skydiving? Here’s the quick answer: the average cost to tandem skydive in the US is between $200 and $350. At Skydive STL, jumps start at $279 and include everything you need – gear, instructor, training, and your flight to altitude. Add-ons like video packages and special event packages increase the price, and also make your jump even more memorable. And when it comes to deciding if skydiving is worth it, most jumpers will tell you the same thing: abso-freaking-lutely!

Table of Contents
How Much Does Skydiving Cost?
How Much to Skydive in St. Louis?
What Sets Skydive STL Apart? 
What’s Included in the Cost of Skydiving?
How Much is a Skydiving Video?
Is Skydiving Worth the Money?
Book Your Skydive Today

If you’ve ever dreamed of jumping out of a plane, you’ve probably asked yourself two questions: What will it cost, and what do you actually get for your money? Skydiving is one of those bucket-list experiences that blends adrenaline, unforgettable views, and a rush unlike anything else. For first-time jumpers, understanding the cost and what’s included can make all the difference before deciding to commit.

The good news? It’s more straightforward – and even more worth it – than most people expect. Once you see everything that’s included and what the experience delivers, the value becomes pretty clear. In this guide, we’ll break down what skydiving costs, what’s included, and why skydiving at Skydive STL is absolutely worth it.

How Much Does Skydiving Cost?

For a first-time tandem jump in the US, most people can expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $350. This price covers the essentials: a certified instructor, all necessary equipment, pre-jump training, and the ride to altitude.

The price is fairly consistent nationwide because most dropzones operate with similar core expenses. Aircraft maintenance, fuel, top-quality parachute systems, and extensively trained instructors aren’t cheap – but they are all essential for a successful, professional skydive.

While it may seem like a higher-priced activity at first glance, skydiving is less about a quick thrill and more about the overall experience. From the moment you arrive to the second you land, every part of the jump is designed to be structured and unforgettable. 

How Much to Skydive in St. Louis?

In and around St. Louis, tandem skydives typically start in the high $200s and can increase depending on jump altitude, day of the week, and any add-ons you choose. Some dropzones may advertise lower starting prices, but those often reflect limited availability or off-peak time slots.

At Skydive STL, tandem jumps start at $279*, which puts us right in line with the national average while delivering a premium, first-time-friendly experience with some important perks. 

Our skydiving experience is designed for beginners, so the focus is on comfort, safety and fun. Whether you’re jumping on a weekend or a weekday, Skydive STL prioritizes efficiency without rushing you through the process. Our ground and sky teams support you every step of the way, helping with any nerves and ensuring your day is smooth from start to finish. 
* as of 3/15/26

What Sets Skydive STL Apart? 

What really sets Skydive STL apart is the experience. Unlike many dropzones that cater primarily or even 50-50 to licensed skydivers, Skydive STL is dedicated to tandem skydiving students. As a first-time jumper, this means you aren’t just a part of the schedule – you are the schedule!

From the moment you arrive, the experience is designed to feel welcoming, organized, and exciting. You’re guided through a short training process, geared up with best-in-class equipment, and paired with a USPA-certified instructor who handles all technical aspects of the jump.

We are a safety-first operation. As a USPA Group Member dropzone, Skydive STL follows strict guidelines and best practices established by the United States Parachute Association (USPA), giving you confidence that everything – from equipment to instruction – is held to the highest level.

And then there’s the views. Located just outside of the city, Skydive STL offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape, including the Mississippi River and even the St. Louis Arch on a clear day. Vistas like this add a whole extra layer to the experience!

At the end of the day, pricing across the region may look similar on paper. But when you factor in the level of attention, the streamlined process, and the overall vibe, the experience at Skydive STL is the top choice for first-time tandem skydivers in our area.

What’s Included in the Cost of Skydiving?

When you book a tandem jump at Skydive STL, everything you need is included. 

• Certified Tandem Instructor
  Your highly-experienced tandem instructor handles all logistics and technical aspects of your jump, from your pre-jump briefing to the moment your feet are back on the ground.

• Specialty Equipment
  All necessary equipment is included in your jump. Our gear is maintained to strict safety standards, including the harness, parachute system, and Automatic Activation Device (AAD). 

• Airplane Ride
  You’ll also, of course, get the airplane ride to jump altitude (10,000 feet), which is an adventure in itself, giving you time to enjoy the view and anticipate the jump.

During your jump, your instructor manages your exit, freefall, parachute deployment, and landing, while you get to experience the thrill. Once the canopy (parachute) opens, you’ll enjoy a calm glide down before a smooth, controlled landing. From beginning to end, the experience is fully guided and carefully orchestrated, which is why it’s worth every, single penny.

If you want to take your experience even further, Skydive STL offers optional add-ons. There are special packages for marriage proposals to make the day extra memorable, and professional photos and video packages to relive the moment or share it with friends.

How Much is a Skydiving Video?

Getting your jump on video is one of the most popular upgrades at Skydive STL. Our professional video and photo ranges from $99 to $139, depending on which of our three packages you choose.

Media packages let you preserve your entire experience – from gearing up and boarding the plane to freefall and landing. While optional, most people find it totally worth the investment, since skydiving is almost impossible to describe, and sometimes difficult to recall after the adrenalish rush! Having professional photos and video lets you relive the experience over and over, and share it with friends and family for years to come.

Is Skydiving Worth the Money?

The answer from nearly everyone who makes a skydive is a resounding YES!!! Skydiving isn’t just about the adrenaline, it’s about the whole, awe-inspiring experience. There’s the anticipation as the plane climbs, the mind-blowing experience of jumping into the wide open sky, and the life-affirming glide under the canopy.

It’s also an experience that stays with you long after you land. You’ll carry the feeling, the view, and the sense of accomplishment with you for the rest of your life. It’s a confidence booster, a story to tell, and a memory you’ll never forget. Priceless!

Book Your Skydive!

If you’re ready to stop wondering what skydiving is like and actually experience it for yourself, Skydive STL is ready to make it happen! With certified instructors, a welcoming atmosphere, and fabulous views of the St. Louis area, it’s the perfect place for your first jump.

Book your tandem skydive today and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that goes far beyond the cost. Blue skies!