How much do glasses cost?

Depending on where you purchase your eyeglasses, your vision correction needs, and the design you choose, glasses can cost from $30 to $600 or more. It's a big range, and with a pair of eyeglasses potentially costing as much as a month's worth of groceries, it's not surprising that people want to find deals and savings.

Find out more about how much glasses cost — and what goes into those costs — below. You'll also find some tips for saving on eyeglasses. Whether you're buying glasses for one or have an entire family with near-sighted genetics, every penny may count.

Factors affecting eyeglasses cost

One of the major factors driving the cost of prescription glasses is where you buy them. A brick-and-mortar specialty store typically has more overhead than an online retailer, for example, and those costs may be passed on to customers. However, even when you shop for glasses at the same location every time, you can find a wide range of costs based on other factors.

Frame material and design

Plastic frames are often less expensive than metal, and specialty metals, such as titanium, can be the most expensive. Even among plastic frames, some specific types are more costly than others. Standard plastic tends to be the most affordable frame material, while acetate and thermoplastics may be more costly.

When considering frame material, think about whether the benefits are worth the cost. If you're buying eyeglasses for an active kid, for example, it may be worth splurging on frames made of TR90. This plastic material may be more expensive than standard plastic, but it's also impact-resistant. You might save money by shelling out more upfront, rather than constantly replacing broken frames.

The design of the frames also impacts cost. Specifically, you may pay a premium for designer frames from high-end brands, such as Cartier or TOM FORD, and even frames from mid-level brands, such as Sketchers, are more expensive than more general options. 

Lens type and features

While frames can be a big expense, especially if you have your heart set on a high-end designer brand, lenses often make up the bulk of eyeglasses cost. This expense varies depending on the lens types and additional features you want.

Single-vision lenses are generally less expensive than progressive or specialty lenses. This is primarily due to the fact that more materials and time go into creating these other lens types.

Adding on other lens features, such as anti-glare coatings, blue light protection, or options for transitioning from regular vision to sunglasses, can add to the cost of your eyeglasses. 

Prescription strength

The strength of your prescription can also impact how much you might pay for eyeglasses. Typically, the stronger your prescription, the more you might pay. Specialty lens requirements and stronger prescriptions may require different materials or more labor.

For example, if you have a mild to moderate glasses prescription, you may be able to choose standard lens material. However, if you have a very strong prescription, standard lens materials would result in extremely thick lenses. Many people don't find these comfortable or appealing, so they opt for high-index lenses instead — albeit at a price increase.

Customization and add-ons

Anything you add on to a basic eyeglasses order will likely increase the cost. Customizations and add-ons might include:

• Lens thinning: High-index lenses or other options that help reduce the bulkiness of glasses tend to increase costs.
• Tinting: If you want your glasses to tint as you move from darker to lighter spaces, you often pay a premium.
• Polarization: Polarized lenses add to the final price tag for your eyeglasses.
• Accessories: Many retailers provide a case for your glasses, but if you want other accessories, such as lens cleaner or wipes, glasses straps, or a nicer case, you probably have to pay for them.

Average cost ranges

Prescription eyeglasses typically cost around $350 per pair without insurance. However, the actual range for what people pay runs from $30 to $1,000 or more. Some designer frame brands might drive up costs to several thousand dollars. 

• Basic prescription glasses: If you have a single-vision prescription that's mild to moderate and you select budget-friendly frames, you might expect your eyeglasses to cost between $30 and $150.
• Designer or specialty glasses: As previously mentioned, specialty options or designer frames increase the cost of eyeglasses substantially. You might expect to pay $150 to $1,000 or more for these types of eyeglasses.
• Progressive or multifocal lenses. Progressives, bifocals, or trifocals cost more because they take more work and skill to create. Depending on the frames and customization options you choose, you may pay $150 to $500 or more for glasses with these types of lenses.

Budget-friendly eyeglasses options

Luckily, even if you need progressive lenses or other specialty options, there are ways to reduce the cost of eyeglasses. Here are a few tips for getting more budget-friendly eyeglasses. 

• Online retailers: As previously mentioned, online retailers can offer better prices on glasses because they don't have the same overhead as local stores. However, it does take a bit of practice to order the right eyeglasses online, so ensure you know what you like when it comes to frame and fit. You might also want to ensure you understand your prescription before you place an order, so ask your eye care provider to walk through the various numbers with you.
• Optometrist and optical stores: You may be able to find a deal by working with a local store, especially if the optical retailer is running a deal. Many locations offer back-to-school specials, for example, so keep an eye out toward the end of each summer. If your optometrist sells glasses, they may offer a discount or deal on the eye exam if you also purchase your eyeglasses at the same location.
• Insurance coverage and benefits: Vision insurance and discount programs may help you purchase eyeglasses without as much out-of-pocket expense. 

Find the best option within your budget

Scrimping and pinching may be important for your monthly budget, but it's also important to wear eyeglasses that support your vision — even if you're a daily contacts wearer and only need glasses as a backup. Explore your options, including buying glasses from online retailers, to find options that fit your needs without breaking the bank.