SOC 2 compliance is more than a checkbox—it’s a strategic investment in building trust, protecting customer data, and unlocking enterprise growth. But with that trust comes a price tag. So, how much does a SOC 2 audit cost?
Whether you’re an early-stage SaaS startup or a growing enterprise preparing for B2B expansion, understanding the cost breakdown of a SOC 2 audit helps in effective budgeting and planning.
Let’s dive into the typical cost ranges, hidden expenses, and actionable tips to manage your SOC 2 audit cost smartly.
What is a SOC 2 Audit?
A SOC 2 audit assesses how well a company protects customer data based on five Trust Services Criteria (TSC):
- Security (required)
- Availability
- Processing Integrity
- Confidentiality
- Privacy
There are two types of audits:
- SOC 2 Type 1: Evaluates the design of controls at a point in time
- SOC 2 Type 2: Assesses operational effectiveness over 3–12 months
SOC 2 Audit Cost Breakdown (Overview)
| Component | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Readiness Assessment | $15,000 |
| Risk Assessment | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Penetration Testing | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Remediation & Tools | $25,000 – $85,000 |
| Formal Audit | $5,000 – $150,000 |
| Annual Maintenance | $10,000 – $60,000 |
| Total | $80,000 – $350,000 |
SOC 2 Type 1 vs Type 2 Audit Costs
SOC 2 Type 1
- Snapshot audit of your controls at a moment in time.
- Lower effort, less documentation.
- Cost: $5,000 – $20,000
- Ideal for companies just starting their compliance journey.
SOC 2 Type 2
- Evaluates control effectiveness over a 3–12 month period.
- Requires monitoring, logging, and evidence gathering.
- Cost: $7,000 – $150,000+
- Preferred by enterprise clients and more comprehensive.
🔍 Tip: Many companies skip Type 1 and go straight to Type 2 to avoid doing two audits.
Key Factors That Affect SOC 2 Audit Costs
1. Size & Complexity of Your Organization
Larger companies with complex infrastructure and multiple systems will pay more for readiness and remediation.
2. Scope of Trust Services Criteria
Choosing more TSCs increases the auditor’s workload. Security is mandatory; the rest are optional but often requested by clients.
3. Gap in Current Security Posture
If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll spend more on security tools, logging, and policy documentation.
4. Manual Processes vs Automation
Automated compliance platforms (e.g., Secureframe, Drata) reduce internal burden and save costs over time.
5. Audit Firm Choice
Big Four firms (like PwC, EY) charge $100k+ for Type 2. Boutique CPA firms may charge $10k–$50k depending on experience and reputation.
Detailed Breakdown of SOC 2 Costs
1. Readiness Assessment ($15,000)
A vital step that evaluates your systems, identifies gaps, and determines what you need to fix before the audit.
Why it matters: Going into an audit blind increases the risk of failure and expensive rework.
2. Risk Assessment ($10,000 – $20,000)
Identifies threats and vulnerabilities across your systems and infrastructure. Required for audit preparation.
3. Penetration Testing ($10,000 – $20,000)
Ethical hackers simulate real attacks on your systems and APIs. Most auditors expect a recent pen test as part of the audit.
4. Compliance Tools & Remediation ($25,000 – $85,000)
- Purchase logging tools (SIEM)
- Hire consultants or developers
- Improve authentication systems
- Update or create policies (access control, incident response, etc.)
5. Formal Audit ($5,000 – $150,000+)
Performed by a certified CPA firm.
Type 2 costs more due to the extended audit period.
High-end firms charge more but carry more weight with customers.
6. Annual Maintenance ($10,000 – $60,000)
SOC 2 isn’t a one-time event. To maintain compliance:
- Monitor controls
- Train staff
- Renew tools and licenses
- Perform annual audits or attestations
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
🔹 Internal Labor Costs
Your internal team will be involved in prepping documentation, monitoring, and working with auditors. Consider time away from other projects.
🔹 Legal Fees
Reviewing data protection agreements with customers, vendors, and staff is crucial. Contract revisions may incur legal expenses.
🔹 Training
Ongoing security awareness training is needed. Platforms like Secureframe offer built-in training features.
🔹 Cyber Insurance
To mitigate risk exposure, many companies buy cyber liability insurance after SOC 2 compliance. Average small business premium: $145/month
🔹 Vulnerability Assessments
Annual assessments of IPs, servers, and applications can cost $1,000 – $4,500/year
How to Reduce SOC 2 Audit Costs
- Start with a Gap Assessment: Know where you stand to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Automate Where Possible: Compliance platforms save time and reduce manual errors.
- Prioritize the Right TSCs: Only include necessary Trust Services Criteria.
- Train Your Staff Early: Avoid delays during evidence collection and interviews.
- Choose the Right Auditor: Balance cost and reputation—don’t overpay for a Big 4 firm unless required.
Final Thoughts: Is SOC 2 Worth the Cost?
Yes—especially if you want to close enterprise deals or work in industries that demand proof of data protection.
Though the SOC 2 audit cost can range from $80,000 to over $350,000, it:
- Increases customer trust
- Unlocks new market opportunities
- Helps prevent breaches and fines
- Enhances internal controls and security maturity
FAQs
How long does a SOC 2 audit take?
- Type 1: 4–8 weeks
- Type 2: 3–12 months (depending on control evaluation period)
How often do I need a SOC 2 audit?
- Annually, to maintain ongoing compliance and trust with clients.
Can small startups afford SOC 2?
Yes—with the help of automation tools and smart scope management, even early-stage startups can achieve SOC 2 on a budget.
Need help getting SOC 2 compliant without breaking the bank?
Get in touch with compliance experts like Securis360 to help manage your readiness, remediation, and formal audit at affordable rates.