Costco’s Optical Department and vision care is available to everyone, even people without a Costco membership. Does Costco Have an Optometrist on Staff? Join 14,266 other email subscribers who are learning how to get out of debt and build wealth! Consider This Before Setting Up A Small Business. On average, you spend $184 for glasses at Costco, which is hundreds less than at other retailers. The convenience for transition lenses was not worth it – especially if you are on patrol. Many people think their vision is fine without realizing it has been degrading slowly over time. A lot of people think you have to pay a lot of money to get a good pair of eyeglasses. I was told the … Contact lenses cost an average price of $50 – $150 per box, depending on the brand, style, and the number of lenses. Others don’t have the proper health insurance plan needed to cover the cost of an eye exam, glasses, and eye care. Each Doctor of Optometry works independently, thus affecting the insurance accepted. Consumer Reports gives Costco high accolades as a top choice for eye exams and eyeglasses. And you can get an eye exam at any Costco location. Several factors contribute to the lack of preventative care. Lenses are one thing that I personally don't skimp out on, and I've noticed a difference between Costco … (Unless you want to purchase glasses). (That cost is based on members who didn’t have insurance.) While you may be eligible to use your insurance for the glasses, you may not be able to use it for the eye exam. If we do not take care of our eyes, it impacts our vision and how we see the world around us. Your eye health is worth a couple of hours of your day, especially considering it is relatively inexpensive. At Costco, a pair of HD progressive lenses with anti-reflective coating and UV … But if you’ve never done it before, you may have some reservations. The median cost for glasses at Costco was $186, while the median price at LensCrafters was $369. On average, it takes about 30-minutes to one hour to complete an eye exam at Costco. Costco Optical prides itself on having some of the most knowledgeable employees in the industry. Our optometrist checked our prescriptions and found both of them were spot on and were made correctly. If you get your glasses and you need them adjusted to sit on your face properly, there’s no store to go to for that adjustment. When CR recommends a company, you can trust it to exceed your expectations. However, there are a couple things to keep in mind if you’re going to order from Zenni. Enjoy the hottest trending designs in eyewear at affordable Costco prices today! That being said, most Costco Optical locations take all major insurance for their frames and lenses. For this reason, I continually needed to take my glasses off when I went into a building only to put them back on after about 10 minutes. But nothing could be further from the truth! As a first responder, we routinely enter buildings and need to see clearly right away. Visit the optical center if your eyeglasses need an adjustment or minor repair. The typical time it takes to complete a Costco eye exam is 30 minutes. The Costco associate says high-index 1.67 lenses costs $100. Costco lenses are older tech (from what I have read on various optometrists boards), but have great price-to-performance ratio. If you would rather not get your eyes examined at Costco but have a current prescription, you can order prescription eyeglasses without seeing their optometrist (this is what we do). Not having to wear sunglasses outside because my eyeglasses darkened was pretty awesome. To add to the convenience, you can purchase lenses, frames, and contact lenses in-store after your eye exam. However, the price does vary between locations. “I recommend a safe harbor until you’re comfortable. However, I quickly found out this was much more of a nuisance than it was worth. See how to measure your own PD if your optometrist doesn’t provide it here. I brought my current prescription and picked out a couple of frames at mid-level prices. Low prices often result in cheap products. Seventeen years ago, something amazing happened in the eyeglasses industry. Costco Optical also routinely has specials and discounts to reduce the cost of both eye exams and eyeglasses. I have VSP insurance and the cost for two complete glasses (frames and lenses) including exam was well under $300. There are some downsides to using … The average price for eyeglasses … Costco is a membership warehouse club that is dedicated to providing their members high-quality merchandise with the best possible prices in the market. Complete eyeglasses are considered prescription lenses and new frame. Shipping is $4.95. Kodey says that many optical shops are inclined to match those prices. And unlike Zenni, which completely outsources production to another country, Warby Parker cuts the lenses and assembles the final product in New York State. Warby Parker’s rates are set at a standard $170 for glasses and an eye exam. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, the median cost of frames and lenses at Costco is $184. That was my biggest concern when we ordered our glasses for the first time from Costco. Nope! Compared to the standard eye exam cost, around $200 in the United States, Costco can save you a significant amount of money. People who carry vision insurance find the costs a little less burdensome than uninsured people, although cost can be a factor for both groups of people. At an eye doctor's clinic, prices for eyeglasses will vary depending upon the frames, lenses and region of the country. Costco Carries a Wide Variety of Designer Sunglasses, Too. Be sure it includes your pupillary distance (PD) — the space between the center of your pupils — expressed in millimeters. One of the best things about Costco is their range of glasses in all price ranges. 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To this day, I have yet to be disappointed by any of these generic products. As you can imagine, numerous factors impact the amount of time a patient spends in the office for their vision tests. With hundreds of locations throughout the U.S., there’s a Costco Vision location near your home. Consumer Reports gives Costco Optical high marks. Money expert Clark Howard has worn Zenni Optical glasses for years now and has never had a problem ordering glasses online. Plan to spend an hour or two in the Vision Center for the entire process if you are buying prescription glasses or contact lenses. We need to put more of an emphasis on eye health so we can continue to serve the community – clearly. Read about them here. That … Average cost of glasses without insurance at Costco was a median $184 Average cost of $400 for frames and lenses at eye doctors and independent eyeglass shops If don’t have a prescription and … You’ll find frames priced as low as $25 (not including lenses) just as easily as you’ll find designer frames priced well into the hundreds of dollars. Consumer Reports states the average price for a pair of Costco eyeglasses and frames is $186 without insurance. Elsewhere, patients spend nearly $400 on the same glasses. When it’s time to buy a new pair of eyeglasses, where will you get the best price and service after the sale? Tip: Costco Optical offers a $30 discount on a complete pair of eyeglasses for all members. Many people neglect their eye health. Following up on my eye doctor’s advice, I visited the optical department at Costco. However, when I walked indoors, it took five to ten minutes to clear up my lenses. Price. I want you to pay too much for your first pair buying them the traditional way to satisfy your fears. The eye exam may reveal your eyes are perfectly healthy, or you may learn about problems that need treatment. Second, Zenni’s site allows you to upload a picture of yourself and virtually “try” on multiple pairs of glasses to see how they look on your face. For people like us on a budget, this was a no brainer. As far as quality, Kirkland products rank 6th in the nation by Consumer Reports. I called my local Costco while writing this post, and they told me it was $65 for an eye exam without insurance. Consumer Reports states the average price for a pair of Costco eyeglasses is $186. Consumer Reports says the median price for a complete pair of eyeglasses is $184. Keep in mind, some of the contracted optometrists do not take insurance for the initial eye exam. It should be … However, the option to buy online is also available. However, age, health conditions, and other factors may increase how a person should receive care. This year my wife and I each purchased our prescription glasses at the vision center at Costco Wholesale. If you have not decided which designs perfectly fit your usage, lifestyle and needs; you can start by visiting our computer lenses page where you can learn more about the perfect pair of glasses … Costco Vision Centers provide access to a contracted Doctor of Optometry and staff of eye care professionals who can assist patients with payments, frame selection and fitting, and other services. Same-day eyeglasses are not an option for anyone who orders eyeglasses from Costco. Costco sells a variety of brand name frames and offers blue anti-reflective and traditional anti-reflective treatment procedures in addition to eye exams. If you are not satisfied with your eyeglasses or contact lenses, the usual Costco 100% satisfaction guarantee does not apply. However, you can only get an eye exam at a handful of those locations. If you haven’t had an eye exam in a while, you’re not alone. Ryan Luke is a father of three, husband, financial coach, and full-time police lieutenant. Respondents to Consumer Reports’ survey reported a median out-of-pocket cost of $184 for glasses. A complete pair of eyeglasses (lenses and frames) cost an average price of $363 across the U.S. I've had no problems switching between Varilux and Costco glasses, and find the Costco ones to be excellent. Unfortunately, free eye exams are not one of them. Lenses For optimal eye health, Costco Optical … A quick check of several Costco stores found they accept the following insurance: It’s a good idea to call the location nearest you to verify they accept your insurance before your appointment. Glasses can cost just $8 or up to $600 for those without insurance. My wife and I purchased our prescription glasses from Costco’s Vision Center in the past, and we will continue to buy them there – until I find cheaper quality glasses elsewhere! No matter what your lens or frame options, expect lower prices from Costco. After we ordered our glasses, we received a Costco employee call to let us know our glasses were ready to be picked up. According to Consumer Reports, the average price of Costco prescription glasses is $186. (Bifocals are more along the lines of $35 and progressives $47 as starting price points.). Costco Optical is the official name of their vision center. By comparison, the median price of frames and lenses at LensCrafters is $369. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that most people schedule an eye exam once every two years. Everybody knows Costco as the place that offers you savings on just about everything in your life. Eyeglasses repair service is also available. When my wife and I ordered our prescriptions, our glasses took about one week. In our independent research, we found that Costco checks in at $201 for an exam and an entry-level pair of single-vision glasses. Costco does not make eyeglasses in the office. However, only members can purchase contact lenses, eyeglasses, etc. Costco warehouses across Canada have reopened their Optical, Photo Centre and Hearing Aid departments (where applicable), following social distancing guidelines. Today, prices start at $6.95 for a pair of frames and prescription single-vision lenses — complete! Tip: Costco members can shop for their frames online (with a valid prescription) and enjoy free shipping to their home to avoid the crowds. Do I Need A Costco Membership To Go To The Vision Center? It’s always in your best interest to shop around if you want the best deal on eyeglasses. I blinked twice and then asked again are you sure? Kirkland Signature is the name of Costco’s brand. However, if there is something wrong with your prescription or product, they may exchange your glasses within a 60-90 day window. No, a Costco membership does not include a free eye exam. This article will give you an overview of our experience and what we learned about getting our prescription glasses at Costco. Compare the two to see if the cheaper pair will work for you moving forward.”. With more than 500 warehouse locations, the Costco Optical retail footprint dwarfs that of Warby Parker. Each lens is made specifically for your prescription and includes anti-reflective treatment. They also rank Costco as one of the most affordable places for eye exams and eyeglasses. Luckily I don’t need a progressive prescription yet, but if these lenses are anything like their standard ones, I’ll be wearing them as well. I now work for an independent optical … Either way, you will have a game plan to ensure the best vision possible for years to come. The good news is that Costco offers an assortment of brands and lenses in all price ranges, so every patient has access to their exact eye care needs. In contrast, the traditional eyeglass retailer LensCrafters has an average prescription glasses cost of $369. In addition to a wide range of traditional … Warby Parker also has a “try before you buy” system, where they’ll ship you five different frames at no cost so you can choose the one you like best. Our staff consists of trained opticians that are well regarded in the optical industry. If you plan to purchase your corrective products in-store, the length of the appointment can take considerably longer. 7 Tips to Help You Find Cheap Prescription Glasses. Next time we will probably utilize the online ordering process to avoid going into the store altogether. This makes Costco eyeglasses 25 dollars cheaper than the average alternative provider. Costco Computer Glasses Designs Our Costco Computer glasses come in different styles, build and design. According to the same survey, the median price for a chain like LensCrafters is $369. I went a few years without going to an eye doc. The basic exam offered by the Costco Optometry Center typically costs between $65 – $80 without insurance. Browse a great selection of designer sunglasses from your favorite brands. Lack of eye care can also lead to serious vision problems and eye disease, including glaucoma. Typical costs for a complete pair of eyeglasses in the United States, without insurance, is less than $200. For my first pair of glasses from Costco, I paid extra for the transition lenses. have begun peeling shortly after purchasing the glasses… If your insurance is accepted, patients with insurance may spend even less on their eye exam costs. No, Costco sends prescription glasses out to a lab and cannot do same day service. First, you’ll need to get your prescription separately. Independent optical shops charge an average price of $211 for a complete pair of prescription eyeglasses. For name brands, prices can range between $50 and $1,000 or more. If you love Costco as much as I do, you have purchased your fair share of “Kirkland” products. Our eyes are important. Typical costs for a complete pair of eyeglasses in the United States, without insurance, is less than $200. You do not have to be a Costco member to get an inexpensive eye exam. Finally, Warby Parker is trying to embrace the ominchannel approach to retail with more than 100 physical stores across the country and several in Canada. Consumer Reports says the median price for a complete pair of eyeglasses is $184. Meanwhile, there are several other things you should know before you head out to buy glasses from Costco Optical. In our independent research, we found that Costco checks in at $201 for an exam and an entry-level pair of single-vision glasses. Design Optics and Foster Grant manufacture the nonprescription reading glasses … So far, I have found Costco to be an excellent choice for glasses both in cost … I could still see without my glasses, but the world was much bigger and sharper when I wore them. A young start-up called Zenni Optical launched in 2003 offering online sales of eyeglasses at rock-bottom prices. Finally, What does Consumer Reports Say About Costco Optical? Hometap Review [2021]: Is Hometap A Good Idea? Costco members receive a myriad of discounts and deals each year with their membership. Consumer Reports states the average price for a pair of Costco eyeglasses is $186. Costco Optical offers its signature Kirkland brand frames and the designer brands Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Mikli, Burberry and Bebe for prescription eyeglass frames. Then buy a second pair with a cheap online shop. Consumer Reports rated Costco the No.1 place to buy eyeglasses in America. You just have to decide if the extra cost is worth it to you. If not, check the big-box stores. As first responders, it’s critical to ensure we have the best eyesight possible. Prescription sunglasses from Costco include Vera Bradley, Kate Spade, Hobie, and Oakley, to name a few. PD is important because certain frames won’t work with certain PDs. © 2021 Clark Howard Inc. By using this website, you accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices. The most common complaint found in Costco Optical reviews is that the coatings put on the glasses to protect from blue light, UV rays, etc. The main thing about Costco is that you know you’re going to get great service, which Zenni doesn’t have, and the flexibility of location, which Warby doesn’t offer. Spoiler alert: Costco had the lowest prices we could find. But despite Costco’s reputation for low prices, they’re also more expensive. Because my health insurance plan doesn’t include vision coverage, my current employer offers vision insurance at an additional price that most of us elect not to purchase. And since I’m all about making the best personal finance decisions, I couldn’t ignore the expensive cost of eye care – especially if you don’t treat issues early on. The Costco Optical Vision Center is run by an independent optometrist. But they’re the real deal and they are a real deal. Their progressive lenses also have high reviews. Where To Find The Best Deal On Eyeglasses, This Is How Much Costco Glasses Cost Without Insurance, I Do Not Advise First Responders Get Transition Lenses. Costco eyeglasses cost will vary depending on the frames, and lenses that you will be prescribed at the time of the exam. Costco offers Universal Fit frames that provide patients with a stylish, more comfortable pair of eyeglasses. We even went to far as to take our glasses to our regular optometrist to get the prescription double-checked. No matter your eyeglasses preferences, Costco offers some of the most competitive prices of any optical provider. Costco, a membership-based warehouse club, aims to provide affordable eye care for those who lack insurance and people who need a break in the expensive costs of healthcare. I have to use high-index lenses which are an additional cost. All orders require 7-day processing time before they’re ready. … His inspirational story about his struggle to make ends meet, to paying off his home in less than 10 years, has been featured on MarketWatch, Fox Business, MSN, and other media outlets. In addition, the company has a philanthropic angle; they donate a pair of glasses to someone in need every time you buy a pair. Frame brand and style, prescription strength, and several other factors impact Costco’s cost of glasses. I agree to receive email updates and promotions. Aldi weekly ad: The best of Aldi’s middle aisle this week! Costco optical centers accept most insurance. We compared costs between Costco and other providers and learned Costco glasses were way cheaper. Even when you add the costs of a Costco membership, it’s still totally worth it. But despite Costco’s reputation for low prices, they’re also more expensive. When I eventually did go, I realized how bad my vision had become. Add on fees for specialty care and an eyeglass or contact prescription, and it’s an expense that many cannot afford. I haven't been using Costco frames as I've been buying frames online (usually through eBay) at a fraction of the cost of high-end optical shops, and using Costco … In 2010, Warby Parker launched with the opposite business model from Zenni: Offer stylish, hip frames and lenses online with free shipping and returns for $95 flat. You can schedule eye exam appointments online or over the phone. Well, you can add eyewear to that list. Transition lenses get dark in the sun and fade back to clear when you go indoors. * Warby Parker currently has 117 stores, but only less than half offer eye exams. They list the provider as the #1 place to buy eyeglasses. So while the Zenni price is definitely nice, you need to know what you’re getting into before you buy. Welcome to the OpticianWorks Consumers Guide To Buying Glasses 2021 I am a licensed optician who has worked for a mall-based optical chain and two different independent doctors of optometry, both with large retail sales. Costco Optical offers eyeglasses and eye exam services right in store so that you can get your prescription glasses without having to make an extra stop. We put Costco Optical, Warby Parker and Zenni Optical to the test…. We often forget to wear sunglasses on a scene, which can result in damaged vision over time. This gave me peace of mind to know that I could continue getting my glasses from Costco without stressing. In searching for a new place to get our prescriptions, we found the Costco glasses cost was significantly less than our optometrist prices. † Opti-Club optical centres in Costco’s Quebec locations are owned and … Don’t cross off the ‘warehouse club’ as a top choice for your eye care provider. Zenni’s price is so low that it looks like a misprint next to the others! My wife and I did that with our phones while looking at the frames Costco had for sale. Aren't there additional costs for scratch resistance and anti-reflection and … The center of the lenses will either be too wide or too narrow. (However, the frames are sourced from China.). Costco Optical also offers the Tod's brand of prescription eyeglass frames. They didn’t have a “rush” option to expedite the process but a week was pretty quick, in my opinion. All Kirkland progressive lenses offer patients value and quality. Get free money tips delivered to your inbox daily! Instead, the order is sent to a lab. Costco fulfills orders for prescription glasses usually within 1-2 weeks. This offer may not be combined with any other promotions. While Costco has an optometrist on-site, they do NOT … You can feel confident that you are receiving the best possible care when visiting the Costco Optical … The warehouse … In case you require having bifocal or trifocal lenses on your glasses, then you will have to add additional fee to the original price of the glasses… Slowly over time, including glaucoma their vision center at Costco several factors contribute to the,! Cost will vary depending on the frames Costco had for sale Optical Warby! Purchase contact lenses in-store after your eye exam once every two years the usual 100! Center for the initial eye exam costs on patrol at mid-level prices most Costco Optical prides on! Find the Costco Optical prides itself on having some of the most affordable places for eye exams looks like misprint. 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