If you donโt have vision insurance, you might assume that buying prescription glasses will be expensive. But with the right approach, you can get high-quality eyewear at an affordable price.
This guide will show you how to lower costs when buying glasses, from eye exams to frames and lenses.
Step 1: Get an Affordable Eye Exam
Even without insurance, you canโt buy glasses without a prescription (unless you already have a valid one). Hereโs where to find low-cost eye exams:
1. Retail Optical Chains (Most Affordable & Convenient)
๐ก Walmart Vision Center: $50 โ $75
๐ก Americaโs Best: $50+ (free if you buy glasses)
๐ก Costco Optical: $60 โ $100
โ๏ธ Best for: Quick, budget-friendly exams
2. Online Eye Exams (For Prescription Updates)
๐ก Warby Parker, 1-800 Contacts, Visibly offer online vision tests for $25 โ $50.
โ๏ธ Best for: Minor updates to an existing prescription
๐ก Pro Tip: If your prescription is still valid (less than 2 years old), you can skip the eye exam!
Step 2: Where to Buy Affordable Glasses Without Insurance
If youโre paying out of pocket, choosing the right store can save you hundreds of dollars.
Best Places to Buy Cheap Glasses
๐ก Online Stores: NextPair, Zenni Optical, EyeBuyDirect (frames from $10)
๐ก Wholesale Stores: Costco Optical (discounted frames & lenses)
๐ก DTCย Retailers: Warby Parker, NextPair (they cut out the middleman so you pay only for the value of the product and not the industry multiples)
Step 3: Choosing Budget-Friendly Frames
๐ฐ How to Save on Frames:
โ๏ธ Shop online for better value options (no store or service costs, so a better cost for money)
โ๏ธ Look for frame sales & discounts (usually there will always be something!)
โ๏ธ Choose Asian fit frames for better comfort if you have a low nose bridge (so they fit well with no need for after-sales)
Step 4: Choosing the Right Lenses (Without Overpaying)
Lens prices vary depending on thickness, material, and coatings. Hereโs how to get the best deal:
Best Budget Lens Choices:
๐ก Standard Lenses (CR-39): $10 โ $30 (good for low prescriptions)
๐ก Thin High-Index Lenses (1.67 / 1.74): $50 โ $100 (for stronger prescriptions)
๐ก Blue Light & Anti-Glare Coatings: Often free with online purchases
๐ก Pro Tip: Online retailers usually offer cheaper lens upgrades compared to physical stores.
Step 5: Maximizing Discounts & Savings
โ๏ธ Use promo codes & seasonal discounts
โ๏ธ Check student, military, or first-time buyer discounts
โ๏ธ Buy multiple pairs at once (BOGO deals)
โ๏ธ Use HSA/FSA funds if available
Final Thoughts: Affordable Glasses Without Insurance
Even without vision insurance, you can find high-quality, affordable glasses by shopping smart. Buying online and choosing the right lenses can help you save hundreds of dollars! ๐ก๐