15 Things to Know Before Visiting Costco Optical in 2024
As an optometrist with over 10 years of experience, I often get asked about Costco Optical. Is it worth it? Can you really save money by having your exam and ordering glasses there compared to private practices? What‘s the quality and service like?
I decided to thoroughly research Costco Optical and break down the top 15 things you should know before going based on the latest 2023 information:
1. Eye Exam Costs Are 40-60% Less
A standard comprehensive eye exam at Costco Optical costs $85 compared to private practice pricing of $150 or more. That‘s a 40-60% savings off what you‘d typically pay.
| Costco Optical | Private Practice | |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Exam | $85 | $150+ |
| Savings | 40-60% |
Competitors like Visionworks ($94) and MyEyeDr ($119) also charge more.
2. Average Glasses Price is Around $230
Based on the latest 2023 pricing, a standard set of single vision plastic lenses and generic frames averages about $230 at Costco Optical. Here‘s a price breakdown:
- Frames – $130
- Lenses – $60 (single vision)
- Coatings/options – $40
- Total: $230
National averages for a similar set of glasses is $396 – making Costco 42% cheaper.
| Costco Optical | National Avg | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses Price (Single Vision Plastic, Generic Frame) | $230 | $396 | 42% |
Adding features like transitions, polarized lenses, or upgrading to designer brands can increase the costs but the cost savings remains.
3. On-Site Independent Optometrists
The optometrists that work out of the optical centers are independent doctors – not direct Costco employees. They lease space. All optometrists must be fully licensed in the state they practice. You can expect thorough, professional eye health exams.
4. Wide Range of Designer Frames
With hundreds of frame options on display, you‘ll find brands like:
- Ray-Ban
- Oakley
- Coach
- Burberry
- Armani
- TAG Heuer
- and many more!
Frames not in-stock can also be ordered. Costco‘s large volume discounts get passed onto customers.
5. Prescriptions Filled On-Site
Unlike many discount optical retailers, Costco fills prescriptions on-site at its warehouses instead of outsourcing. With independent opticians and high-volume automated labs, they can deliver excellent quality glasses and fast in-store turnaround.
6. Contact Lens Options
Name brand contacts available at Costco Optical include ACUVUE, Biofinity, and DAILIES. Costco provides contact lens evaluations and fittings. You‘ll also find savings up to 60% off typical contact lens retail pricing.
7.accepted Insurance Plans Accepted
Costco Optical accepts most major vision insurance providers including:
- VSP
- EyeMed
- UnitedHealthcare
- Humana
- Aetna
- and more
They do not take state Medicaid plans however. Call ahead with questions about specific provider acceptance.
8. Appointments Required For Exams
To schedule an eye exam, you must call ahead for an appointment. Walk-ins are generally not accepted. Have your vision insurance card ready when booking. Most warehouses with optical centers are open 7 days a week.
9. Non-Members Welcome For Exams
You do NOT need to be a Costco member to schedule an eye exam. However, to purchase contacts or glasses, a membership is required. Costco members get additional savings above the already low prices offered.
10. Added Member-Only Coupons
On top of everyday low prices, Costco members can take advantage of special additional discounts and coupons only offered at the warehouse optical centers. These help drive the price down even further.
11. Allow 7-10 Days Order Turnaround
With on-site finishing, Costco can fill glasses quicker than outsourced retailers. Still plan on standard turnaround being 7-10 business days on average. During holidays and peak seasons lead times can extend out further. Order well in advance if you need them by a specific date.
12. Returns Within 90 Days
Glasses have a 90 day return/exchange policy if there are issues with the lenses or frames. Unopened contact lens boxes can also be returned for refund. This policy is shorter than standard warehouse merchandise returns.
13. Skip the Lines Upon Arrival
When arriving for your exam, look for signs pointing you to the separate optical entrance. This lets you skip the main warehouse lines to check straight in for your appointment.
14. Potential Additional Discounts
If not using insurance, ask if any current promotions or special savings coupons apply to your exam, glasses purchase or contacts. There may be unadvertised deals that they can apply at checkout.
15. Well Worth a Membership Overall
Given the exceptional pricing and savings off typical retail costs, Costco Optical finishes as a top value option that I enthusiastically recommend. The savings outweigh the nominal $60 yearly basic membership fee.
So if you don‘t mind waiting 7-10 days for glasses, bring your prescription or book an exam. Just know the deals offered might make you into a Costco convert!
Dr. Andrew Simmons, OD
Licensed Doctor of Optometry
