Updated: Nov 21, 2024

Prescription eyewear is essential for millions of people, but the cost of glasses can sometimes be overwhelming. Learn about the best ways to save on prescription eyewear and check out tips for finding affordable options that fit your budget.

Why Prescription Eyewear is Important

Prescription eyewear isn’t just about improving your vision; it’s about improving your quality of life. Whether you need glasses for reading, driving, or reducing eye strain, the right pair can make all the difference in how you experience the world. Untreated vision problems can lead to headaches, eye fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, so it’s important to get the eyewear you need.

Unfortunately, glasses can be expensive, with some high-end frames and lenses costing several hundred dollars. However, there are many ways to get the eyewear you need without spending a fortune.

Understanding Prescription Costs

Before diving into how to get affordable prescription eyewear, it’s helpful to understand the basic elements that affect the cost. When you buy glasses, you’re paying for:

• Eye Exam: Before you can buy glasses, you’ll need a current vision prescription, which comes from a comprehensive eye exam.
• Frames: These hold your lenses in place. Prices vary widely, from budget frames to designer brands.
• Lenses: These are often the most expensive part of your glasses, especially if you need specific lens coatings or high-strength prescriptions.
• Add-ons: Anti-glare, UV protection, scratch-resistant coatings, or progressive lenses can significantly increase the cost.

Each of these factors can add up, but there are ways to reduce costs at every step.

1. Start with an Affordable Eye Exam

The first step to getting prescription eyewear is to obtain an updated prescription through an eye exam. While eye exams can be expensive, there are several ways to find affordable options:

• Vision insurance: If you have vision insurance, it may cover the cost of an annual eye exam or reduce the overall cost significantly.
• Retail chains: Stores like Walmart Vision Center, Costco, and Target Optical often offer eye exams at lower prices than private optometrists. You can usually get an exam for $50 to $100, and they often offer package deals that include both the exam and glasses.
• Community clinics: Many nonprofit or community health clinics offer free or low-cost eye exams for individuals with low income or without insurance. Organizations like the Lions Club also provide vision screenings and free exams in certain areas.
• Online vision tests: While not a complete replacement for a comprehensive eye exam, online vision tests can help update your prescription if you already have one. Companies like Warby Parker and 1-800 Contacts offer affordable online vision tests, but always follow up with an in-person exam to check for any underlying eye health issues.

2. Choose Affordable Frames

Frames can vary greatly in price, but you don’t have to spend hundreds to get a stylish, functional pair. Here are some ways to find affordable frames:

• Discount retailers: Many online eyewear retailers, such as Zenni Optical, EyeBuyDirect, and Firmoo, offer a wide selection of frames at incredibly low prices—starting as low as $6. You can browse hundreds of options, and many sites let you “try on” frames virtually by uploading a photo.
• Retail chains: Stores like Walmart, Costco, and Target Optical offer affordable frames at prices much lower than designer brands. Costco, in particular, is known for its high-quality yet affordable prescription eyewear.
• Look for sales and promotions: Many eyewear retailers, both online and in-store, offer seasonal sales or discount codes. Shopping during a promotion can save you a significant amount on frames and lenses.
• Reuse old frames: If you already have a pair of frames that you love, consider reusing them. Most optical shops will fit new lenses into old frames, which can save you a lot of money.

3. Save on Prescription Lenses

While frames can be the flashy part of your glasses, lenses are where you really need to pay attention to cost. The price of lenses can vary depending on your prescription strength, the material, and any additional coatings or features you add. Here are some ways to keep costs down:

• Basic lenses: Stick with basic lenses if you don’t need extras like progressive or transition lenses. For many people, standard plastic lenses work just fine and are the cheapest option.
• Avoid unnecessary upgrades: While anti-glare, scratch-resistant, and blue-light-blocking coatings can be helpful, they aren’t always necessary for everyone. Consider skipping these upgrades if you’re looking to cut costs.
• Shop around: Prices for lenses can vary between retailers, so it’s worth shopping around. Online retailers like Zenni Optical or EyeBuyDirect often offer basic lenses for free with the purchase of frames.
• Use insurance: If you have vision insurance, check whether it covers a portion of your lens cost. Many plans will cover basic lenses and offer discounts on upgrades.

4. Buy Glasses Online

One of the best ways to save money on prescription eyewear is by purchasing your glasses online. Not only can online retailers offer much lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores, but they also give you access to a much wider selection of styles and options. Here are some top online retailers for affordable glasses:

• Zenni Optical: Zenni is known for offering incredibly affordable frames, with prices starting at just $6.95. Even with additional lens coatings or features, you can easily get a pair of glasses for under $50.
• EyeBuyDirect: EyeBuyDirect has a wide variety of frame styles, and their prices are budget-friendly. They frequently run sales and promotions, making it easy to get high-quality glasses at a low price.
• Warby Parker: Warby Parker is slightly more expensive, with frames starting around $95, but they offer a “Home Try-On” program, where you can try five pairs of glasses for free before making a decision. They also offer a virtual try-on feature to see how frames will look on your face.
• Firmoo: Another affordable option, Firmoo offers prescription glasses starting at $20, with frequent sales and promotions.
• GlassesUSA: GlassesUSA offers a wide selection of affordable frames and lenses. They frequently have sales offering up to 50% off, making it a great place to find a deal.

When buying online, make sure you have your prescription handy, and don’t forget to include your pupillary distance (PD), which you’ll need to ensure the lenses are centered correctly.

5. Use Insurance and FSAs/HSAs

If you have vision insurance, be sure to use it. Many vision plans cover a portion of the cost of glasses, either by offering an allowance for frames and lenses or by providing discounts at certain retailers.

Even if you don’t have vision insurance, you can still save on prescription eyewear by using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for medical expenses, including prescription glasses and contact lenses. Be sure to check if your FSA or HSA covers eyewear, and take advantage of this tax-free savings.

6. Explore Nonprofit Programs for Free or Low-Cost Glasses

For individuals with low income or those who don’t have vision insurance, there are several programs and organizations that provide free or low-cost eyewear:

• New Eyes: This nonprofit organization provides vouchers for free prescription glasses to individuals in need. You’ll need to apply and meet certain income criteria to qualify.
• OneSight: A global vision care nonprofit, OneSight provides free eye exams and glasses to those in need through clinics and partnerships with retailers like Luxottica.
• Lions Club International: Lions Clubs often collect and redistribute gently used eyeglasses to individuals in need. Check with your local Lions Club for more information on how to access these services.

Conclusion: Seeing Clearly Without the High Cost

Prescription eyewear doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By shopping around, buying online, and taking advantage of discounts and insurance, you can find affordable glasses that meet your vision needs. Whether you need a basic pair for everyday use or a more specialized prescription, there are plenty of options to ensure you get the glasses you need without breaking the bank.