The cost of glasses varies based on the type of lenses, frames, and retailer you select — but can range from $10 for simple, ready-made readers to several thousand dollars for designer frames with high-index lenses. 

Americans spend $200 to $300 for new prescription glasses, but it comes down to how much you're willing (and able) to spend. Discount lenses are available online for as little as $8 for plain metal alloy frames, while designer eyeglasses with lenses are available for $535. 

You must also undergo an annual eye exam for $114 to get a prescription. Below you’ll learn the cost of glasses with and without insurance, the different types of lenses available, and how Accrue Savings can help you save toward your purchase. 

According to VSP Vision Care, a pair of single-vision glasses without insurance costs $107, while a pair of frames averages $230. These prices exclude progressive lenses, typically costing up to $600. Add-ons such as anti-glare coatings, anti-reflective coatings, or cosmetic tints can add to the cost of your eyeglasses.

It pays to shop around when looking for glasses. Many retailers offer discounts and promotions, so check online or in-store before purchasing. Consider ready-made readers or glasses from bulk retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Target if you want an even budget-friendlier option. 

Your vision insurance plan may cover part of the cost, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Some insurance providers cap how much they will pay for a pair of glasses each year, while others have a co-payment requirement. Co-pays range from $0 to $50 for lenses and frames.

A new pair of glasses will cost you $120 with insurance, depending on your location, provider, and plan coverage. If you want expensive brand names such as Ray-Ban, Prada, or Gucci, you must cover the additional cost out of pocket. 

After an eye exam, your optometrist will recommend a specific type of lens based on your prescription. Lenses come in various types — single-vision, progressive, and bifocal — each designed to provide different levels of visual acuity and protection.

Single-vision lenses

Single-vision prescription lenses are designed to correct one field of vision, like near-sightedness (myopia), far-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. They distribute focus evenly across the entire lens, making them suitable for reading and distance viewing. Most people who wear glasses wear single-vision lenses.

The average cost of single-vision lenses varies depending on where you buy them. Prices can range from $10 to $700, with some online vendors charging over $500. However, according to VSP, the typical cost for single-vision lenses without insurance vision coverage is $114.

Bifocal lenses

Bifocal glasses have two lenses designed to correct near and distant vision. They have two fields of vision divided by a visible line (transition zone) on the lens. Bifocals are commonly prescribed to individuals over 40 or those suffering from presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close-up objects).

Bifocal lenses cost $70 to $600, depending on the material used, specific lens features, and additional coatings or treatments. You can shop from online retailers for lower prices, though you should factor in the cost of an eye exam.

Trifocal lenses

Trifocals are similar to bifocal lenses but have three fields of vision, with the third field explicitly designed for intermediate vision. They correct myopia, hyperopia, and presbyopia, making them ideal for individuals who need glasses to view objects at different distances. You can see the transition zone on the lens, which divides the three fields of vision.

Trifocal lenses are more affordable than progressive lenses, typically ranging from $120 to $200. However, if you need advanced features such as anti-glare coating or special lens treatments, the cost can go up to $400.

Progressive lenses

Progressive lenses provide a smooth transition between near, intermediate, and distance vision without any visible lines on the lens. These corrective lenses have a gradual power change that allows eyes to adjust quickly and without strain.

Progressive lenses are more expensive than single-vision, bifocal, or trifocal lenses, costing from $85 to $400, with premium designs going up to $1,000. Add in the frame, anti-glare treatments, and other features, and you could be looking at a price tag of up to $1,500.

Prism lenses

Prism eyeglass lenses are usually prescribed to individuals with certain eye conditions such as strabismus (eye turn), diplopia (double vision), or vertical heterophoria (eye misalignment). They bend light before it hits the retina to help the eyes align, allowing for improved visual clarity and depth perception.

Prism lenses are more expensive than other types of prescription eyewear. Temporary prism lens wearers will pay about $250 to $500, while permanent prism lens costs $600 to $1,500. Brand-name eyewear with higher-quality lenses will cost several hundred dollars more.

You must also decide which lens material you want for your glasses. The most common materials are plastic, polycarbonate, and glass, each with unique benefits, drawbacks, and price points.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a lightweight and durable plastic, resistant to scratches and impacts. Because of its strength, it’s often used in sports as helmet visors and safety lenses. It's also thinner than other materials, which makes it more comfortable for some people.

Polycarbonate lenses cost from $30 to $150 for single vision. Bifocal and trifocal lenses cost $60 to $250, depending on the specific features, coatings, and treatments.

Plastic

Plastic is the most common and affordable lens material option. It's lightweight, comfortable, and has excellent optics. Plastic lenses are best suited for mild prescriptions and are available in three types:

• CR-39: A thermal-cured plastic; moderately impact-resistant and scratch-resistant
• High Index: A lighter, thinner plastic material with a higher refractive index
• Trivex: A newer lightweight material; very impact-resistant and optically superior

CR-39 plastic lenses cost from $50 to $120 for single vision. High-index and Trivex lenses are more expensive, costing $200 to $400.

Glass

Glass provides superior optics but is heavy, brittle, and difficult to adjust. Its high scratch resistance and resilience make it an excellent choice for those with high prescriptions. Unfortunately, it’s rarely used for prescription glasses due to safety and durability concerns.

Glass lenses are the most expensive option, costing $100 to $200 for single-vision. Depending on the design and treatments, bifocal and trifocal lenses range from $200 to $400. Online eyeglasses stores may have more competitive pricing.

Coatings

Lens coatings material help enhance vision and comfort but come at a cost. Common coatings include:

• Anti-reflective coating (to reduce glare and prevent eye strain)
• UV protection (to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays)
• Scratch resistance (to protect lenses from damage)

UV coating comes standard with most lenses, but you can apply it on existing lenses for $20 to $100. According to Consumer Reports, anti-reflective coating costs $26 to $86, while scratch-resistant is priced at $30 to $100. Blue light-filtering lenses, which help reduce digital eye strain, will cost you $50 at Warby Parker.

Start saving for prescription glasses with Accrue Savings

The cost of eyeglasses can vary greatly depending on the type of lenses, frames, and treatments you choose. But one thing is certain: Prescription eyeglasses don't come cheap. That's why it pays to start saving for them early. 

Accrue Savings offers affordable, convenient, and flexible savings plans to help you make smart spending decisions and budget for glasses, contact lenses, and eye exams. Fund your savings with one-time or automatic deposits straight from your bank account or debit card, and we’ll manage the rest! 

Check out our website to see our eyewear partners like Solstice and Lensabl, and start saving today.

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