How Much Do Contact Lenses Cost? What You Can Expect to Pay

If you’re considering switching from glasses to contact lenses, you probably know that contacts come with a larger price tag. Contact lens prices vary based on the type you choose, your prescription, and how often you plan to wear them.

In this guide, we’ll break down the costs for different types of contact lenses (without insurance) and help you understand what to expect before making the switch. The prices below reflect the most accurate predictions at the time of writing based on contact provider prices, not necessarily the prices at West Broward Eyecare.

Cost by Types of Contact Lenses

Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

Daily disposables are the ultimate in convenience. You wear a fresh pair each day and toss them at night—no cleaning or storing required. This is a great choice for anyone who values hygiene, ease, and maybe doesn’t wear contacts every day. However, that convenience comes at a price.

• Average annual cost: $600 to $900, or $25-50 per pack for standard prescriptions
  
• Specialty daily lenses: Can exceed $1,000 per year
  

If you have astigmatism or need multifocal lenses, expect to pay more for these specialized daily options.

Monthly or Biweekly Contact Lenses

Monthly or biweekly lenses are more budget friendly. You’ll wear each pair for two weeks or a month, cleaning and storing them each night.

• Annual cost: $200 to $400, or $50-60 per box, for standard prescriptions,
  

Prepare to spend a few minutes each morning or night cleaning them with solution ($15-20 for a large bottle). Cleaning is essential for your eye health and to help ensure your contacts last the full month.

Specialty Contact Lenses

Some vision needs require specialized contacts:

• Toric lenses (for astigmatism)
  
• Multifocal lenses (for presbyopia)
  
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses (for overnight vision correction)
  

These lenses are more complex and, as a result, more expensive.

• Annual cost: $400 to over $1,000
  
• Ortho-K lenses: Often at the higher end of this range
  

Specialty lenses are essential for certain prescriptions, but be prepared for a higher investment.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are durable and reusable, often lasting a year or more. While the upfront cost per lens is higher, the annual cost is typically lower than soft lenses.

• Annual cost: $100 to $200
  

These lenses require an adaptation period because of their hardness and careful cleaning, but they can be more cost-effective in the long run, and they are known to help correct astigmatism better than soft lenses.

Cost of Colored Contact Lenses

Colored contact lenses generally cost more than standard clear contacts due to the additional manufacturing processes and design complexity involved.

• Daily Disposable Colored Contacts: $30–$80 per box (30 pairs), or about $1–$2.67 per day.
  
• Monthly Colored Contacts: $20–$70 per box (typically a 1–3 month supply), or about $10–$23 per month.
  
• Yearly Colored Contacts: $25–$200 per pair, depending on brand and features.
  
• Special Effect/Costume Lenses: $20–$100+ per pair, with prices increasing for more intricate designs.
  

Prescription colored contacts tend to be more expensive than non-prescription versions due to the customization required. Factors such as brand reputation, lens material, and special features (like UV protection or moisture retention) can also impact cost.

Don’t Forget the Exam and Fitting

Before you can purchase any contacts, you’ll need a contact lens exam and fitting. This ensures your prescription is accurate and your lenses fit safely and comfortably.

• Exam and fitting fee: $120 to $250 (without insurance)
  

This is usually an annual expense and is separate from the cost of the lenses themselves.

Notable Cheap Brands and Prices

• Hubble: Known for its budget-friendly monthly subscription model, Hubble offers daily lenses starting at about $23–$30 per month (per eye), with initial promos as low as $1 per eye for a 10-day starter pack. However, user reviews note that Hubble lenses may not be as comfortable or high-performing as premium brands, so comfort and fit should be considered.
  
  
• Dailies (Alcon): Packs start around $16 for a 30-pack.
  
• Soflens (Bausch + Lomb): Monthly lenses like Soflens 38 are available for as little as $30 for a 6-pack.
  
• Biotrue (Bausch + Lomb): Biotrue daily lenses start at about $26 per box.
  
• Acuvue 2: A well-known, affordable biweekly lens, with 6-packs available for around $43.
  
• PerfectLensWorld: Lists lenses as low as $14 per box for certain brands.
  

What Are the Cheapest Contact Lenses?

If affordability is your top concern, monthly or biweekly soft contact lenses are usually the least expensive option for most wearers. 

While these options are generally the most affordable, the cheapest contact lenses may not be suitable for everyone. Factors like your prescription, eye health, lifestyle, and comfort preferences all play a role in determining the best lens for you. Always consult your eye doctor before choosing a lens type—they can help you find the most cost-effective option that also meets your vision and health needs

Final Thoughts

The cost of contact lenses depends on your lifestyle, vision needs, and budget. Daily disposables offer maximum convenience at a higher price, while monthly or biweekly lenses are more affordable for regular wearers. Specialty and RGP lenses cater to specific needs but come with their own pricing considerations. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of your annual eye exam and fitting.

Choosing the right contact lenses is about more than just cost—consider comfort, convenience, and your specific vision needs. With this guide, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision and find the best contacts for your eyes and your wallet.