How Much Do Contact Lenses Cost Without Insurance

The price of contacts varies based on the type of lens you choose and how often they need to be replaced. Without insurance, the average yearly cost for contact lenses ranges from $150 to $1,000, depending on the type of lenses used and additional costs like fittings and exams.

Daily disposable lenses can cost more than biweekly or monthly lenses; specialized lenses for conditions like astigmatism also come at a premium.

In this article, we’ll explore how much contact lenses cost without insurance, including the costs of various lens types, additional expenses, and factors that influence these prices.

Cost of Contact Lenses Without Insurance

Contact lenses can range widely in price depending on the type of lenses you choose and how often they need to be replaced. Here is a breakdown of the costs for various lens types when paying out of pocket.

Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily disposable lenses are typically the most expensive because they are discarded after each use.

• Cost per box (30-pack): $17–$50
• Cost per box (90-pack): $50–$122
• Annual cost (30-pack supply): $204–$540
• Annual cost (90-pack supply): $200–$488

The cost per box of bi-weekly lenses ranges from $25 to $35 for six lenses, resulting in an annual cost of $270 to $360.

Monthly Lenses

Lenses are replaced once a month, making them an economical choice.

• Cost per box (6 lenses): $15–$50
• Annual cost: $180–$300

Extended-Wear Lenses

Extended wear for continuous use, including overnight wear, is replaced less frequently.

• Cost per box (6 lenses): $30–$65
• Annual cost: $360–$520

These prices can vary depending on where you buy your lenses often offering discounts or bulk deals, while purchasing through an optometrist may be more expensive but can come with rebates.

Additional Costs Associated with Contact Lenses

In addition to the cost of contact lenses themselves, there are other expenses that you will need to consider. These include:

• Eye exams
• Fitting fees
• Cleaning and storing your lenses

Eye Exams and Fitting Fees

Before purchasing contact lenses, you need a prescription from a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. The cost of an eye exam can vary widely depending on where you get it.

A contact lens exam typically costs $40 to $240 without insurance. Retail outlets and discount stores often charge between $45 and $150 for an exam, while vision centers may charge up to $80.

Optometrists with private clinics can charge $40 to $240 depending on the location and complexity of the exam.

Additionally, fitting fees for contact lenses can cost between $25 and $250, depending on the type of lenses and the complexity of your prescription.

Cost of Contact Lens Accessories

You’ll also need to account for cleaning and maintaining your lenses. Contact lens solution typically costs between $5 and $20 per bottle, and you will also need a contact lens case, which usually costs just a few dollars.

If you opt for daily disposable lenses, you can avoid these costs. Still, for bi-weekly or monthly lenses, these accessories are essential to maintain the cleanliness and safety of your lenses.

Factors Influencing the Price of Contact Lenses

Several factors influence the price of contact lenses, including the complexity of your prescription, the design of the lenses, and where you purchase them. Each of these factors can significantly affect your total costs.

Lens Design and Prescription Complexity

Certain lens types are more expensive due to the complexity of the prescription or the specific vision issue they address. For example, toric lenses designed for astigmatism typically cost more than standard lenses.

• Soft toric lenses: $45–$85 per box (6 lenses)
• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) toric lenses: $95 per lens

Multifocal lenses, used to correct presbyopia, also vary in price depending on the type and brand.

• Cost range: $35–$120 per box
• Pricing varies based on type: Daily disposables, monthly lenses, or RGP lenses

Where You Purchase Your Contacts

Where you buy your contact lenses significantly impacts the overall cost. Optometrists’ offices generally charge higher prices for lenses but may offer benefits like rebates or discounts if you buy several boxes at once. While this can be convenient, it’s often more expensive than other options.

Online retailers frequently provide lower prices and bulk discounts, though you might encounter additional shipping fees. Popular online stores for contacts include:

• Warby Parker
• 1-800 Contacts
• LensDirect

Big-box retailers such as Walmart and Costco also offer competitive prices. While you can buy standard lenses in-store or online, some specialty lenses may need to be ordered through the retailer’s website. Purchasing contacts from these retailers can be a budget-friendly option, especially if you’re considering buying in bulk.

Wrap Up

The cost of contact lenses without insurance varies based on the type of lenses, where you purchase them, and any additional expenses like eye exams and fitting fees. Annual costs for daily disposables range from $204 to $540, bi-weekly lenses cost $270 to $360, and monthly lenses fall between $180 and $300. Extended-wear lenses cost between $360 and $520 per year.

You also need to consider the cost of eye exams, which range from $40 to $240 without insurance, and fitting fees, which can range from $25 to $250. Cleaning solutions and lens cases add another $5 to $20 per bottle.

If you purchase lenses for astigmatism, multifocal, or other specialized lenses, expect higher costs. Where you buy your contacts also matters—online retailers may offer discounts, but optometrists may offer rebates and more personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for contact lenses?

Yes, if you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you can use these funds to pay for contact lenses, solutions, and exams. Check with your provider to confirm eligible expenses.

What are toric lenses, and why are they more expensive?

Toric lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism and often come with higher prices due to their custom shape. Soft toric lenses cost more than standard lenses because they address complex vision needs.

How often should I replace my contact lens case?

Replacing your contact lens case every 3 months is recommended to prevent bacterial buildup, which can lead to eye infections. It’s a low-cost yet essential part of maintaining healthy contact lens wear.

Are daily disposable lenses better for dry eyes?

Daily disposables can be a good option for dry eyes since they reduce the need for cleaning solutions and limit the accumulation of deposits, which can worsen dryness over time.