Birkin Bag Price Guide: Comprehensive Breakdown by Size and Material [2025 Update]

Do you often wonder, "How much does a Birkin bag really cost?" or "How much budget should I prepare?"

To address these common questions, the Hermès specialty store XIAOMA has compiled the latest information for you. From the updated 2025 pricing to the price differences between various sizes and materials, as well as potential future price changes, we will introduce everything in detail.

Latest Update in March 2025: The pricing for Birkin bags has been updated. According to the latest information, the price for a Birkin 25 starts at ¥1,881,000.

How Much Does a Birkin Cost Now? Understand the Latest Pricing at a Glance

First, we will introduce the latest pricing information for Birkin bags based on size.

Birkin 25

1. Togo, Clemence: 1,881,000 yen
2. Epsom: 1,969,000 yen
3. Ostrich: 3,714,700 yen
4. Matte Alligator: 8,150,000 yen
5. Porosus: 8,800,000 yen

Birkin 30

1. Togo, Clemence: 2,057,000 yen
2. Epsom: 2,013,000 yen
3. Alligator & Niloticus: 8,558,000 yen

Birkin 35

1. Togo, Clemence: 2,222,000 yen

Birkin 40

1. Togo, Clemence: 2,398,000 yen

It is worth mentioning that the price of a Birkin bag can vary significantly depending on the material. Models made with rare leathers, such as crocodile skin, ostrich leather, etc., are often several times more expensive than the basic calfskin versions, making it one of the key factors influencing the overall price.

Price Trend Forecast

The price trend for Birkin bags is predicted to continue rising in the future.

Official Announcement of Price Revision from February 2025

Hermès has officially announced a price revision for their products starting February 1, 2025. We will continue to provide the latest information in this article as it becomes available.

Rising Raw Material Costs and Increased Production Costs

Global inflation and supply shortages are causing an increase in raw material costs, such as leather, which is expected to impact the rising prices of Birkin bags. Additionally, the manufacturing process by skilled artisans and rising labor costs are expected to continue being reflected in the prices.

Continued Increase in Global Demand

Hermès products have high demand worldwide, especially with the increase in wealthy populations in emerging markets and rising brand recognition, leading to increased demand. This is expected to influence prices as well.

Prices of Birkin Bags by Size and Material

The price of a Birkin bag can vary widely based on a combination of factors, particularly its size and material. In the sections that follow, we’ll break down the distinctive characteristics of each option and explore how these elements contribute to the overall cost.

Birkin 25: Approximately 25cm in width

Price range: From 1,881,000 yen (varies by material)

Characteristics:

1. Compact yet has presence, this is one of the most sought-after sizes on the market
2. Ideal proportions for women—lightweight, easy to carry, versatile for everyday use
3. Can hold essentials such as a long wallet, phone, keys, and other daily items
4. When paired with a shoulder strap, it’s also suitable for crossbody or side carry

Birkin 30: Approximately 30cm in width

Price range: From 2,057,000 yen (varies by material)

Characteristics:

1. The most versatile standard size
2. Optimal storage capacity for daily use
3. Perfect size that works well for both formal and casual occasions
4. Practical size that can fit a 500ml water bottle

Birkin 35: Approximately 35cm in width

Price range: From 2,222,000 yen (varies by material)

Characteristics:

1. Easily accommodates documents and laptops with room to spare
2. Suitable size for business settings
3. Storage capacity is suitable for short trips
4. Sophisticated silhouette with a strong presence

Birkin 40: Approximately 40cm in width

Price range: From 2,398,000 yen (varies by material)

Characteristics:

1. Maximum storage capacity
2. Suitable for 1-2 night trips
3. Ideal for business travel
4. Elegant appearance with a substantial presence

Togo: Sturdy, structured cowhide leather

Price range: From 1,881,000 yen (for Birkin 25)

Characteristics:

1. Practical as scratches are less noticeable
2. Moderate shine with a luxurious texture
3. Popular as a classic Birkin material

Clemence: Soft, supple cowhide leather

Price range: 2,057,000 yen and up (for Birkin 30)

Characteristics:

1. Can enjoy leather patina — characteristics that develops with age
2. Can create a casual impression
3. Ideal material for daily use

Epsom: Cowhide leather resistant to shape loss

Price range: 1,969,000 yen and up (for Birkin 25)

Characteristics:

1. Lightweight and easy to carry
2. Resistant to friction
3. Gives a formal impression

Niloticus: Crocodile skin with beautiful shine and uniform scale pattern

Price range: Approximately 8,000,000 yen to 9,000,000 yen

Characteristics:

1. Attractive uniform scale pattern
2. Highly rare material
3. Projects an overwhelming presence

Alligator: Crocodile skin with a slightly softer texture

Price range: 8,150,000 yen and up (for Birkin 25, Alligator Matte)

Characteristics:

1. Has a beautiful shine
2. Scale pattern is delicate and consistent
3. Has a slightly softer texture

Ostrich: Ostrich leather is characterized by its quill marks

Price range: 3,714,700 yen and up (for Birkin 25)

Characteristics:

1. Characterized by small dotted bumps (quill marks)
2. Attractive elegant texture and soft touch

Birkin Value Based on Color and Hardware

If the size and material used for a Birkin are identical, there is no variation in the retail price at authorized stores. However, the value in the pre-owned market fluctuates depending on the popularity and rarity of color and hardware.

Classic Colors

1. Etoupe: A neutral shade that sits between grey and brown, Etoupe is incredibly easy to style with any outfit. It has long been a favorite on the secondhand market, often selling for prices higher than its original retail value.
2. Gold: A warm-toned brown that exudes a timeless charm, Gold is a true classic. Alongside Etoupe, it’s one of the top choices for first-time buyers and consistently receives high interest.
3. Black: A perennial favorite that never goes out of style. Regardless of season or fashion trend, black pairs effortlessly with everything, making it one of the most stable choices in the market.

Popular Colors

1. Bleu Jean: A refreshing and distinctive shade of blue, especially popular among younger customers. It pairs exceptionally well with casual outfits.
2. Rose Sakura: A dreamy and soft pink hue, a highly sought-after pink color that is extremely popular among women customers.

Rare Colors

1. Limited Edition Colors: Seasonal limited-release colors are highly rare. Once production stops, their market price typically rises significantly.
2. Special Order Colors: These are custom colors available only to select VIPs. Not only are they rare, but they also hold high collectible value. They are often seen on rare leather materials combined with unique color schemes.

Gold Hardware

A classic impression and is the most common option. It has little impact on pricing and typically stays within standard market range.

Palladium (Silver) Hardware

Has a modern impression and increasing popularity, which is leading to a slight price increase.

Rose Gold Hardware

Exuding a soft yet slightly luxurious aura, this type is rare and mostly appears in limited editions, often driving up the overall price.

Special Hardware

Models using special hardware—such as those used in anniversary editions—are highly rare and therefore command higher market prices.

As a result, in the secondhand market, the combination of “leather color × metal hardware” is one of the key factors influencing price. XIAOMA provides appropriate valuations and purchasing advice based on these details.

Key Reasons Behind the Price Increase of Birkin Bags

Over the past five years, the price of Birkin bags has shown a steady increase. Taking the Birkin 30 as an example, the annual price changes are as follows:

Particularly in 2024, there was a significant price increase of approximately 16.1% compared to the previous year. The main factors contributing to the rising prices of Birkin bags include the following:

1. Rising cost of raw materials

1. Increased demand for top-quality leather materials: Hermès Birkin uses high-quality materials, and the demand for rare leathers in particular has been increasing.
2. Shortage of raw materials that meet quality standards: Difficulties in securing appropriate materials that maintain high quality standards is considered one factor in the price increase.
3. Cost increases due to sustainability initiatives: There is a possibility that costs have increased due to the introduction of sustainable material sourcing and manufacturing processes.

2. Rarity of craftsmanship

1. Time required to train skilled craftsmen: Hermès products are handcrafted by skilled artisans, and their training requires a long time.
2. Length of production time spent on each bag: It takes a significant amount of time to create a Birkin, which limits production efficiency.
3. Challenges in technical succession due to aging craftsmen: As skilled artisans age, passing down their expertise may become a challenge.

3. Increasing global demand

1. Growth of wealthy populations in emerging markets: With economic growth in emerging countries, the wealthy population has increased, expanding demand for luxury brand products.
2. Improved recognition of value as an investment: Birkin bags are recognized as having high asset value, resulting in increased purchases for investment purposes.
3. Rising brand awareness through social media: The spread of social media has further raised awareness of the Hermès brand, increasing demand.

4. Exchange rate fluctuations

1. Impact of strong Euro: Hermès is a French brand, and a strong Euro affects export prices.
2. Market instability due to international conditions: Changes in international economic conditions and political situations affect the market.
3. Rising import costs: Fluctuations in exchange rates can increase import costs, which are reflected in prices.

Price Differences Based on Birkin Purchase Methods

There are two main ways to purchase a Birkin bag: "Buying from Hermès boutiques" and "Buying from trusted specialty stores." The following provides a detailed explanation of their respective features and price differences:

Purchasing at Hermès Boutiques

Image source: Hermès

When purchasing a Birkin bag at an Hermès boutique, please note the following advantages and considerations:

Advantages:

1. Purchase at the listed retail price
2. Comes with the official Hermès certificate of authenticity
3. Enjoy after-sales service directly from the manufacturer
4. All items are in brand-new condition

Considerations:

1. Requires building a strong trust relationship with the brand
2. A good purchase history is necessary
3. It may be difficult to immediately acquire the desired style or color
4. Long waiting periods may be required depending on stock availability

Price:

1. Can be purchased according to size and material pricing
2. Additional fees are limited to sales tax
3. Generally, no discounts are offered

Purchasing from Trusted Specialty Stores

Image source: XIAOMA

When purchasing a Birkin bag from specialty stores, please note the following advantages and considerations:

Advantages:

1. Immediate purchase possible
2. Selection from abundant inventory
3. Possibility to acquire rare models
4. Detailed product explanations from specialists
5. Peace of mind when accompanied by reliable authentication certificates

Considerations:

1. Generally more expensive than retail price at official stores
2. Condition may vary
3. May not come with full set of accessories
4. Must select a trustworthy store

Price:

1. Brand new unused items: Approximately 1.2-1.5 times the retail price (popular models 1.5-2.0 times, limited edition models may be over 2.0 times the retail price)
2. Display items/Unused items: Approximately 1.0-1.3 times the retail price (varies depending on condition and presence of accessories)
3. Pre-owned items
4. Grade A items: Approximately 0.8-1.2 times the retail price
5. Rare models may be priced above retail even when used

Recommended reading: The Ultimate Guide to the Latest Market Trends and Essential Tips for Selling Hermès Items

Points to Consider When Choosing a Specialty Store

When purchasing a Birkin from a specialty store, it is recommended to consider the following points:

1. Presence of authentication certificate: A certificate issued by experienced authenticators provides greater peace of mind
2. Verify the store's track record and reputation: It is recommended to confirm whether they have physical stores and their handling experience

XIAOMA, a specialty store for Hermès, issues authentication certificates from experienced appraisers to ensure customers can select Birkin bags with confidence. With a track record of handling over 4,000 items* annually, you can rely on us for all matters related to Hermès.

Visit XIAOMA to browse a wide selection of Birkin bags from standard Birkin models to rare items.

▶︎Click here for XIAOMA's Birkin collection

*Total annual acquisitions across all XIAOMA locations (XIAOMA Ginza Flagship, XIAOMA HK, XIAOMA SG): Data from January 1, 2024 to January 31, 2025

Birkin Prices Are Rising at an Accelerating Pace

The Birkin bag remains highly coveted for its enduring value and iconic appeal. While prices consistently rise year after year—and at an increasingly faster rate—you can shop with confidence by selecting the right criteria and purchasing from a trusted retailer.

At XIAOMA, we support your Birkin purchase with our extensive selection and reliable authentication system. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime.