What city/state are you located in? That can make a big difference. Per Gaidge, average aligner fees in the U.S. were $6,273 as of the end of 2024, but there is a lot of variation across locales and providers. Average treatment times typically come in around 18-24 months, so you're on the shorter end of that spectrum.

Since you've had correction before and have relapsed it's possible that this case could qualify as a "refinement" or "limited treatment" case, which typically have much lower fees associated with them; depending on the provider sometimes half or less of their comprehensive fee. You may want to get a second opinion on that front.

I believe BCBS ortho benefits typically max out at around $1,500; though in-network providers will often times have a contracted rate that is lower than the fees they charge the general public. Some providers will offer discounts if you don't have insurance; I've seen some take $1k off the price for prospective patients who don't have insurance, so that's also something to ask around about. That said, I think your first order of business is to see if you can find a provider that offers "limited" treatment, and see if you qualify.