Did you know millions of Americans wear contact lenses? Are you considering joining them?
Don’t be put off by prices. It doesn’t have to feel like a quest to find affordable, high-quality contacts.
So, how much do contact lenses cost? From the material to the brand, there are a few factors that affect the price. I’m breaking it all down for you!
Why Are Contacts Priced Differently?
Not all contact lenses are made equal. So inevitably they are sold at different price points. The average cost of contact lenses in the US ranges from $50 to $75 each month. But that number can also depend on the type of lens.
Brand & marketing
Just like everything from cars to handbags, the name dictates the price. There are accessible contact lens brands that offer products at a lower price, while some recognizable brands that position themselves as premium sell their products for more.
They might even have fancy ads and social media campaigns, so you end up seeing them everywhere. The consequences? When brands become household names, they can raise prices because people will splurge on their products.
Specialization & your prescription
A standard box of monthly contact lenses could cost you around $20 to $30, while a prescription for specialized lenses could be double that (or more).
Some eye conditions, like astigmatism, mean that you may need to spend more on contact lenses. The manufacturing process is more complicated, and the fitting process can take longer. These factors hike up the price.
Some lenses, like RGP (rigid gas permeable) lenses, are made from a specially engineered material, which means they are more breathable and durable. As a result, they can cost more than standard soft lenses.
If you have a harder-to-treat vision problem, it could mean that you need contact lenses that are tailored to your condition. Issues like corneal abrasions are one example of this. And you guessed it, the price for these types of contacts is higher.
Monthly vs daily lenses
Monthly contact lenses are generally cheaper than daily contact lenses in the long run. They do require more care and ongoing maintenance, but they still generally cost less.
A quick calculation will help you understand how much your daily or monthly contact lenses will cost you. So you can also see which one is cheaper.
Multiply the cost of a box (one month) x 12
For example: $9 (one month supply of Biofinity 6 Pack) x 12 (months) = $108
You might find out that you can save a lot by switching to monthly contacts, or maybe you’ll still prefer the convenience of daily lenses. But at least you can make an informed choice.
Inflation = higher annual prices
If you’re an ongoing user of contact lenses, you’ve probably noticed prices changing over time.
Inflation can increase the cost of contacts by 1% to 3% each year. Unfortunately, none of us can really escape inflation. But you can use other methods to keep costs down and reduce the financial strain.
Cut Costs on Your Contacts Without Cutting Corners
It’s never worth buying knock-off or suspiciously cheap contact lenses. Check you’re buying them from a reputable retailer that requires a prescription. And do some research on the product to make sure it sounds right for you.
Buy in bulk
Buying contact lenses in bulk can help you save by avoiding any price increases. Plus, you’ll have a ready supply, so you don’t need to stress about running out or the ongoing cost.
Use subscription services
Some retailers offer their own contact lens subscription service. EZContacts has one that’s easy to opt in to, or out of, with the option to cancel anytime. The best part is the 30-day satisfaction guarantee and hassle-free returns process, plus 10% savings on your contacts!
Shop online
If you’re Googling “How much do contact lenses cost?” then you’ll find a range of online stores to pick from. Shopping online can work out cheaper than in-store.
Physical eyewear retailers have more costly overheads (have you seen rent prices lately?)! Plus, there are bills and staff wages, and it all adds up, and the costs are passed on to the customer via product markups.
Online stores have lower ongoing costs and can pass those savings on to customers.
How?
With big discounts, coupons, and offers!
EZContacts doesn’t have any physical stores, just a really easy-to-use website with thousands of products. You’ll find a range of branded contact lenses with huge discounts.
What Are the Best Daily and Monthly Contact Lenses?
There is a range of popular and reviewed contact lenses that are affordable. These are my top picks for dailies and monthly contacts.
Daily contact lenses
1-Day Acuvue Moist (90 pack)
ACUVUE is a popular brand that’s manufactured by Johnson & Johnson. These ACUVUE contact lenses use LACREON® Technology, which helps provide all-day moisture!
A box of contacts currently costs $87.95 on EZContacts, and you just need four boxes for a year’s supply! So, buying in bulk could help you save.
EZContacts customers approve:
“These contacts are SO hydrating and fit my eyes perfectly. I can wear them all day without clawing my eyes out. Highly recommend these daily contacts, very fresh and easy hygiene.” – Caitlin C.
Dailies Total 1 (90 pack)
Another great option is Dailies Total 1 (90 pack). They are produced by Alcon, making it a reputable choice. The contacts currently cost $112.95 on EZContacts, and one box will last you three months.
Verified buyer Michael B. agrees they’re a good option:
“I love these contacts. Perfect thickness.”
Monthly contact lenses
Biofinity 6 Pack Monthly
Biofinity’s monthly contact lenses are manufactured by CooperVision and feature Aquaform® Technology, which helps oxygen pass to your eyes. They currently cost $53.95 on EZContacts. They are breathable and can help you save because one box has six lenses for six months!
Customers find them to be affordable:
“Seamless process to order these at a much better price than most dealers!! Most importantly, fast delivery!!” – Ralph Y.
Air Optix Colors
If you love wearing monthly colored contacts, then Air Optix Colors could be a great choice. One box currently costs $47.95. They are available in over 10 colors and come highly recommended by customers:
“Excellent service. Quick and accurate. Emerald Green looks great in my brown eyes.” – Jose S.
TL;DR
Contact lenses come at different costs, but the good news is that there’s a huge range to choose from.
- The cost can depend on the brand, the complexity, and the type of lenses. Soft lenses generally cost less than specialized lenses like RGP contacts.
- Some brands cost more than others. So it’s worth price-matching and getting advice from your eye doctor.
- Monthly contacts often work out cheaper than dailies, but you’ll need to commit to ongoing maintenance.
- Cut costs by shopping online, bulk buying, and signing up for a subscription service.
- Turn to reputable, affordable brands with great customer reviews like ACUVUE and Biofinity!
