Gold IRA Fees Explained (2026)

One of the most common questions aspiring Gold IRA investors ask — and one that carries strikingly similar wording across conversations — is simply: “How much does a Gold IRA cost?” It’s a reasonable question, especially when the goal is long-term retirement protection. Over the past several years, as interest in physical gold has resurged, I’ve spoken with countless investors who wanted exceptionally clear answers about fees, transparency, and what to expect before opening a precious metals IRA.

Gold IRAs do involve unique costs, largely because physical metals require secure storage and administration. However, when compared with traditional investment accounts, the fee structure is remarkably straightforward once it’s broken down into its core components. What often surprises investors is how predictable these fees are across the industry, especially once they understand custodian charges, storage requirements, and dealer pricing.

Why Gold IRAs Have Fees

Unlike stocks or mutual funds, physical gold and silver must be stored in IRS-approved depositories to maintain tax-advantaged status. These facilities provide insurance, strict auditing procedures, and exceptionally durable physical security systems. A Gold IRA custodian oversees all of this, ensuring every transaction complies with tax law and retirement regulations. These functions lead to cost structures that are notably different from standard brokerage accounts but essential for preserving the integrity of a metals-based IRA.

If you want a deeper understanding of how these accounts operate beyond their fees, our guide on how a Gold IRA works is a helpful companion to this article.

Types of Gold IRA Fees

While each company may package costs differently, most Gold IRA fees fall into four main categories. Understanding these allows you to compare providers with significantly improved confidence.

1. Account Setup Fee

This is a one-time charge to establish your new IRA with a custodian. It covers paperwork, compliance checks, and initial account creation. Setup fees are typically $50–$100.

2. Annual Custodian Fee

Once your account is open, the custodian charges an annual administrative fee for maintaining IRS compliance, processing transactions, and ensuring proper reporting. These fees are usually $80–$150 per year.

3. Storage Fee

Secure storage is where your metals are physically held. Storage fees cover insurance, vaulting, audits, and internal controls. Depending on your depository and whether storage is segregated or non-segregated, costs typically range from $100–$200 annually.

4. Dealer Spreads (Markup)

When you purchase gold or silver, the dealer earns a markup based on metal type, product demand, and market conditions. Premiums can vary widely, which is why working with a transparent company can be particularly beneficial.

Average Gold IRA Fee Comparison

Fee Type	Typical Cost	Notes
Account Setup Fee	$50–$100	One-time charge when opening account
Annual Custodian Fee	$80–$150	Paid each year for account administration
Storage Fee	$100–$200	Varies by facility & storage type
Dealer Spread	Varies	Depends on metals and market conditions

Segregated vs. Non-Segregated Storage Fees

Storage pricing differs depending on how your metals are held. Segregated storage keeps your metals separate from other investors’ assets, while non-segregated storage provides collective vaulting at a lower cost.

• Segregated Storage: Highest level of separation and audits; costs slightly more.
• Non-Segregated Storage: More affordable and widely used for long-term investors.

Are Gold IRA Fees Worth It?

For many investors, Gold IRA fees are considered a fair trade-off — particularly when viewed in the context of long-term diversification and inflation protection. The stability and low correlation of gold compared to traditional equities often provides a valuable counterweight during market downturns. Even with annual costs, the overall structure remains highly efficient for investors seeking preservation and balance in retirement.

How to Reduce Gold IRA Fees

Some investors find ways to minimize their overall cost structure by choosing companies with clear, transparent pricing and by selecting metals with lower premiums. Others reduce costs by opting for non-segregated storage or by consolidating accounts to avoid multiple custodian fees. Working with a company known for highly efficient fee structures can create meaningful savings over time.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through them. Reviews are based on independent analysis.