Prescription Sunglasses Cost

How Much Do Prescription Sunglasses Cost?

	Low Price: $20-$50
	Average Price: $150-$500
	High Price: $700+

Prescription sunglasses allow users to shield their eyes from the sun while preserving their vision. These lenses can be costly, but are perfect for active people who need vision correction.

Typical costs:

• Prescription sunglasses vary in price from $20 to more than $700, depending upon the frames and type of lens used in the frame.

• Basic lenses, with simple plastic or metal frames, can be purchased online or through an eye boutique. These lenses cost about $50 for simple plastic lenses with plastic frames[1] ., while designer prescription sunglasses can cost $325 for Gucci glasses to more than $600 for Shuron MacArthur sunglasses[2] at online retailers.
• Other discount retailers, such as Lenscrafters[3] and Pearle Vision[4] offer sunglasses that cost between $150 and $500.
• Prescription sunglasses can also be purchased through an eye care professional. Prices should be similar to online retailers. Ask about discounts for purchasing prescription sunglasses with eyeglasses or contact lenses. The eye care professional may also offer a free eye exam with the purchase of prescription lenses.
• Most insurance companies do not cover the purchase of prescription sunglasses. The Vision Service Plan[5] , a national provider of vision insurance, does allow consumers to buy prescription sunglasses with their annual eyeglasses benefit. Typical copays, which can range from $15 to $50, will apply.

What should be included:

• Eyeglass purchases should include metal frames, nose pads and lenses. In some cases, the retailers may list separate charges for the frames and the lenses. The listing may also include care information for the lenses and frames. AllAboutVision.com explains the different types[6] of frame styles and lenses available.

• Patients must have an annual eye exam to purchase prescription sunglasses through a U.S. retailer. Most experts recommend that patients purchase prescription sunglasses through a U.S. retailer because overseas merchants are not bound by Food and Drug Administration regulations. The average national cost for an eye exam is $114, but the cost will vary. See How Much Does An Eye Exam Cost.
• Discounted and free eye exams are available through a variety of programs and foundations. The National Eye Institute[7] maintains a list of many of these programs.

• AllAboutVision.com[8] provides guidance on the types of sunglasses available and where they can be purchased.
• An online purchase can be the most affordable option, but patients should investigate the company before buying online.