Costco Vision Center: Affordable Eye Exams & Glasses Guide
Finding quality eye care at an affordable price can be challenging. Costco Vision Center offers a solution by providing comprehensive eye exams, prescription eyewear, and contact lenses at competitive prices. Whether you need a routine eye checkup or a new pair of stylish glasses, Costco Optical has you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore what Costco Vision offers, its pricing, membership requirements, and why it’s a great option for eye care.
What Is Costco Vision Center?
Costco Vision Center is the optical department inside Costco Wholesale stores. It provides eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses at lower prices compared to many retail optical stores. Costco Optical is known for its high-quality lenses, stylish frames, and customer-friendly policies.
Unlike other optical retailers, Costco Optical often features independent optometrists who operate within the store. While the optometrists set their own fees, their prices are usually affordable. Costco members can also purchase designer frames and premium lenses at discounted rates.
Does Costco Vision Center Require a Membership?
- Eye Exams: You do NOT need a Costco membership to get an eye exam from the optometrist inside Costco Vision Center.
- Purchasing Glasses & Contacts: A Costco membership is required to buy eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses.
Services Offered at Costco Vision Center
1. Comprehensive Eye Exams
Costco Vision Center provides detailed eye exams to check for vision issues, prescription changes, and overall eye health. The exams typically include:
- Vision testing
- Prescription updates
- Glaucoma screening
- Retinal imaging (varies by location)
Eye exam prices vary but usually range from $70 to $100, depending on location.
2. Prescription Eyeglasses
Costco Optical offers a wide range of stylish frames, including designer brands like Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Gucci at discounted prices. Their Kirkland Signature lenses provide high-quality vision correction, including:
- Single-vision lenses
- Progressive lenses
- Blue light blocking lenses
- Transitions (photochromic) lenses
3. Contact Lenses
Costco sells a variety of brand-name contact lenses, including:
- Acuvue
- Air Optix
- Biofinity
- Kirkland Signature daily contacts (Costco’s own brand)
Members can save up to 30% compared to traditional optical stores on contact lenses.
4. Sunglasses and Specialty Eyewear
Costco Vision Center carries prescription and non-prescription sunglasses from top brands. They also offer:
- Prescription sports goggles
- Safety glasses
- Reading glasses
How Much Does Costco Vision Center Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs at Costco Optical:
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Eye Exam | $70 – $100 |
| Single-Vision Glasses | $100 – $200 |
| Progressive Lenses | $150 – $250 |
| Contact Lenses | $30 – $80 per box |
| Sunglasses | $50 – $200 |
These prices are significantly lower than most traditional optical stores.
Most Popular Eyeglass Frames at Costco in 2025
Costco Optical offers a diverse selection of eyeglass frames, catering to various styles and preferences. Based on available information and popular trends, here are some of the most sought-after frames at Costco this year:
| Frame Brand | Frame Model | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Signature | Classic Rectangular | Costco’s in-house brand offers durable and affordable frames with a timeless rectangular design suitable for everyday wear. |
| Ray-Ban | RB5287 | A classic rectangular frame that combines style and comfort, suitable for both casual and formal settings. |
| Oakley | Crosslink Fit | Sporty frames designed for active lifestyles, featuring a lightweight and durable construction. |
| Maui Jim | MJO2414 | Known for their superior lens technology, these frames offer both style and exceptional visual clarity. |
| Foster Grant | Ironman | Affordable and stylish, these frames are popular among those seeking quality without breaking the bank. |
Why Choose Costco Vision Center?
1. Affordable Pricing
Compared to major optical retailers, Costco offers low prices on both eye exams and eyewear. Their bulk purchasing allows them to pass on savings to members.
2. High-Quality Lenses
Costco’s Kirkland Signature lenses use premium materials. Many customers report that Costco’s lenses are comparable to high-end optical shops at a fraction of the cost.
3. Large Selection of Frames and Contacts
From budget-friendly options to designer brands, Costco Vision Center has a wide range of frames and contact lenses to choose from.
4. Convenience
With over 500 locations in the U.S., Costco Optical is easy to access. Plus, you can order contact lenses online for added convenience.
5. Trusted Optometrists
The independent optometrists at Costco Vision Center are licensed professionals. While they operate separately from Costco, they provide thorough eye exams at reasonable rates.
How to Get the Best Deals at Costco Vision Center
Shopping at Costco Vision Center can save you money, but knowing how to maximize your savings is key. One of the best ways to get a deal is to watch for Costco’s optical promotions, which often include discounts on eyeglasses and contact lenses. Additionally, purchasing Kirkland Signature eyewear can offer significant savings compared to designer brands while maintaining high quality.
Another great way to save is by using Costco’s contact lens rebates, which can provide cashback on bulk purchases. If you need prescription glasses, consider buying during seasonal sales, as Costco occasionally lowers prices on frames and lenses. Lastly, if you have an HSA or FSA, you can use it to pay for your eyewear, making your purchase even more cost-effective.
Are Costco Optical Prices Worth the Membership Cost?
A Costco membership costs $60 per year, but is it worth it for the savings at Costco Optical? If you frequently buy prescription glasses, contact lenses, or sunglasses, the discounts can easily justify the membership fee. Compared to other optical retailers, Costco offers premium-quality lenses and designer frames at prices often 20-40% lower than competitors.
Even if you only purchase glasses once every couple of years, the cost savings on frames and lenses can still make the membership worthwhile. Additionally, Costco’s low-cost eye exams and free adjustments add more value, making it a smart choice for families or individuals needing affordable, high-quality vision care throughout the year.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Costco Vision Center
- Appointment Required for Eye Exams: Most locations require you to schedule an eye exam in advance.
- No Insurance Direct Billing: Costco Vision Center does not bill insurance directly, but you can submit a reimbursement claim with your vision insurance provider.
- Membership Needed for Purchases: If you want to buy glasses or contacts, you must have a Costco membership (starting at $60 per year).
Conclusion
Costco Vision Center is a top choice for affordable and high-quality eye care, offering everything from eye exams to designer frames at discounted prices. With its cost-effective pricing, premium Kirkland Signature lenses, and a wide selection of eyewear, it stands out as a reliable option for vision care. While a Costco membership is required for purchases, the savings on glasses and contacts often justify the cost.
For those looking for budget-friendly yet premium eye care solutions, Costco Optical is an excellent option. The trusted independent optometrists, convenient locations, and competitive pricing make it a great alternative to traditional optical stores. If you need new glasses, contact lenses, or an eye exam, Costco Vision Center is definitely worth considering.
