How much does it cost to make a 1-minute AI video?

A 1-minute AI video typically costs $3–$25 in 2026 depending on model mix. All-Veo 3 with re-rolls is the upper bound. All-Hailuo with minimal re-rolls is the lower bound. Most pros mix models — cheap drafts to lock composition, expensive final on Veo 3 only for the hero shots — landing around $8–$12.

All-Veo 3, with re-rolls: ~$15–$25 per minute.
Mixed-model workflow: ~$8–$12 per minute.
All-Hailuo or Luma: ~$3–$5 per minute.
Re-rolls are the hidden cost — budget 1.5×.

The cost breakdown

One minute = ~7–10 clips of 6–8 seconds. Veo 3 clips cost ~$2 each, Hailuo clips ~$0.30 each. Multiply by clip count and you land in the ranges above. Add 50% for re-rolls on any prompt that does not nail it first try.

How to cut cost without cutting quality

Run all draft generations on Hailuo until composition and motion are locked. Then re-run the final winning prompts on Veo 3 only for the hero shots that actually need the extra quality. This pattern typically cuts total cost 40–60%.

FAQ

Is there a flat-rate subscription that beats credits?

For low-volume users (under 20 min/month of generation), credits are cheaper. For high-volume agencies, subscription tiers usually break even.