Contact lenses offer a convenient and vision-correcting alternative to eyeglasses. However, unlike a one-time purchase of frames, contacts represent an ongoing expense. If you’re considering making the switch or simply want to understand the financial commitment, it’s essential to know what to expect regarding cost. Generally, without vision insurance, the average annual cost for contact lenses ranges from $150 to $1000. But this broad range depends significantly on the type of contact lenses you and your eye doctor choose.
Understanding the Costs of Contact Lenses by Type
The type of contact lens prescribed for you is the primary factor determining the overall expense. Different materials, usage frequency, and technologies contribute to varying price points. Here’s a breakdown of common contact lens types and their associated costs:
Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are designed for single-day use, offering maximum convenience and hygiene. Each day, you start with a fresh, new pair, eliminating the need for cleaning solutions and lens cases. This ease of use comes at a premium. Daily disposables are generally the most expensive type of contact lens on a recurring basis but can be appealing for their simplicity. They typically are sold in boxes of 30 or 90 lenses.
| Type of Contact Lens | Cost Per Month | Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Use | $50-$75 | $600-$900 |
As shown in the table, daily use contacts can range from $50 to $75 per month, translating to a yearly cost between $600 and $900. The price per box varies depending on the quantity of lenses included:
| Number of Lenses Per Box | Average Cost Per Box |
|---|---|
| 30 | $25-$50 |
| 90 | $50-$100 |
Biweekly and Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option than dailies, biweekly or monthly disposable lenses are popular choices. These lenses are designed to be worn daily for a set period – either two weeks for biweeklies or up to a month for monthlies – and require nightly cleaning and storage in lens solution. Sold typically in boxes of 6 lenses, these reusable options significantly reduce the ongoing cost compared to daily disposables.
| Type of Contact Lens | Cost Per Month | Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Biweekly Use | $20-$35 | $270-$360 |
| Monthly Use | $15-$25 | $180-$300 |
As the table indicates, biweekly lenses cost approximately $20 to $35 per month, while monthly lenses are even more economical, ranging from $15 to $25 per month. This translates to annual savings compared to daily disposables.
Extended-Wear Contact Lenses
Extended-wear contacts are designed for continuous wear, meaning they can be worn overnight and for several days before removal for cleaning or disposal. These lenses offer the convenience of waking up with clear vision and can be ideal for individuals with busy lifestyles or those who find daily lens handling cumbersome. While convenient, extended-wear lenses generally come with a higher price tag than biweekly or monthly options, though they are often less expensive than daily disposables in the long run.
| Type of Contact Lens | Cost Per Month | Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Extended-Wear | $30-$40 | $360-$450 |
Extended-wear lenses typically cost between $30 and $40 per month, resulting in an annual expense of $360 to $450. The exact replacement schedule for extended-wear lenses should be determined in consultation with your eye doctor.
Choosing the right type of contact lens involves considering not only your vision correction needs and lifestyle but also your budget. Understanding the cost differences between daily, biweekly, monthly, and extended-wear lenses can help you make an informed decision in consultation with your eye care professional.
