Regarding material cost, how does Plaster of Paris usually compare to fiberglass casts?

Plaster of Paris is generally less expensive

From a purely materials standpoint, Plaster of Paris represents the more economical option when compared directly against synthetic fiberglass casting materials. This cost differential means that POP remains a viable and often preferred material in healthcare environments where budgetary limitations are a primary concern, or in settings where high turnover requires minimizing expense per application. Although fiberglass has taken over many routine applications in well-resourced settings due to its superior features like light weight and fast setting time, the lower material cost of traditional plaster ensures it retains a persistent niche role, especially in situations where cost-effectiveness is a critical factor influencing the treatment decision.