How Much Do Contact Lenses Cost?
On average, contact lenses cost between $200 and $1,200 per year. (This is also factoring in a lens being worn in both the left and right eye). If only one lens is worn, the cost is half.
That range feels wide, but it makes sense once you understand what affects it. Based on recent statistics from Lenspricer:
Daily disposable lenses typically cost the most annually, often between $600 and $1,200.
Bi-weekly lenses usually fall somewhere between $200 and $500 per year.
Monthly lenses are often the most budget-friendly, generally ranging from $180 to $600 per year.
The more frequently you replace lenses, the higher the yearly cost tends to be. But replacement frequency also affects hygiene, convenience, and comfort levels.
What Actually Determines the Cost?
1. Your Prescription
Standard single-vision lenses are typically the most affordable.
If you need:
- Lenses for astigmatism
- Multifocal lenses for presbyopia
- Higher or more complex prescriptions
The price increases because the design is more specialized.
2. The Lens Material
Modern contact lenses are often made from silicone hydrogel, which allows more oxygen to reach your cornea.
That matters because your cornea doesn’t have blood vessels. It gets oxygen directly from the air. When you wear lenses, oxygen has to pass through the material.
Higher oxygen flow usually means:
- Less redness
- Better long-term corneal health
- More comfort at the end of the day
Those materials tend to cost more than older hydrogel options.
3. Replacement Schedule
This is one of the biggest cost drivers.
Daily lenses are worn once and discarded.
Because you’re opening a fresh set every single day, they’re often considered the most hygienic option. That added convenience does make them more expensive over the course of a year, but for many people, the ease is worth it.
Bi-weekly lenses are replaced every two weeks.
They require cleaning and storage, but they reduce the total number of lenses you use annually.
Monthly lenses are replaced every 30 days.
They’re durable, cost-effective, and ideal for consistent wearers who don’t mind a nightly cleaning routine.
If you wear contacts every single day, monthlies often make the most financial sense.
If you wear them occasionally, dailies can actually be more practical.
How Much Do Daily Contacts Cost?
Daily disposables typically cost $600 to $1,200 per year.
You’re paying for convenience and consistency.
Every day starts with a brand-new lens. There’s no buildup from the day before. No case. No solution.
For people with sensitive eyes, allergies, or busy schedules, that simplicity can be worth the higher price.
How Much Do Biweekly Contacts Cost?
Bi-weekly lenses usually range from $200 to $500 per year.
You still get relatively frequent replacement, but you’re not opening 365 lenses per eye each year.
How Much Do Monthly Contacts Cost?
Monthly lenses typically range from $180 to $600 per year.
They’re often the most economical option for full-time wearers.
With proper cleaning and storage, they last the full 30 days comfortably. Many modern monthly lenses are designed with moisture retention and high oxygen permeability, so they don’t feel like a “budget compromise.”
What About Astigmatism or Multifocal Lenses?
Specialized lenses cost more because they naturally have more features and advanced technology. For example, toric lenses include stabilizing agents to combat the astigmatic shape of the eye.
Annual totals for astigmatism lenses often range from $400 to $900.
Multifocal lenses correct near and distance vision simultaneously. Their design makes them more complex to manufacture. Annual costs can reach $800 to $1,200, depending on the type and replacement schedule.
Never Shopped with Us Before?
If you are a first-time customer and don’t know where to start, get in touch with us through our Live Chat support. We are always happy to answer all your questions and guide you through, from picking the right lens to buying your first box online.
Contact Lens Solution
If you wear biweekly or monthly lenses, contact lens solution becomes part of the annual cost.
Most people spend $100 to $150 per year on solution. Daily lenses don't require contact lens solution, so it doesn't need to be factored into the cost.
Contacts With Insurance vs. Without
If you have vision insurance, many plans cover an annual eye exam and part of your yearly contact lens supply
Without insurance, a yearly supply of contact lenses is typically $200 to $1,200, depending on lens type.
Some people lower costs by:
- Buying annual supplies at once (at Blue Planet Optics, buying 3 boxes automatically gives you 40% off the 4th box of contact lenses)
- Using subscription discounts
- Switching to bi-weekly or monthly lenses from dailies if their eye doctor is ok with this
Choosing What Makes Sense for You
Because everyone's eyes are so different, there isn’t one “best” option.
If you want maximum convenience and minimal maintenance, daily lenses may make sense.
If you wear contacts every day and want the lowest long-term cost, monthly lenses are often more economical.
If you have astigmatism or presbyopia, the conversation shifts toward stability and optical design. Today, there are lenses available for astigmatism and presbyopia in daily, bi-weekly, and monthly options.
Your eye doctor will ultimately guide you and make the final decision on what lenses are right for you. They consider corneal health, tear film quality, lifestyle, and sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are contacts more expensive than glasses?
Over time, yes. Typically, glasses are purchased a lot less often.
Are daily lenses always better?
Not necessarily. They’re more convenient and hygienic, but not automatically better. It depends on your eyes and how often you wear contact lenses.
Are monthly lenses safe?
Yes, when worn and cleaned properly. Many modern monthly lenses are made from highly breathable materials.
Can I switch lenses to save money?
Only with your eye doctor’s approval. Different lenses fit differently, even if the prescription looks similar. A valid and up-to-date prescription is always required to order contact lenses.
Originally Published: November 21, 2024
Updated: February 25, 2026