Eye Exam Cost by Provider: Walmart, Costco, LensCrafters and More (2026)
The definitive comparison of eye exam prices at every major US retail chain. Sorted by price, with add-on costs, insurance acceptance, and honest pros and cons for each provider.
Master Price Comparison Table (Sorted Cheapest First)
| Provider | Exam Cost | Contact Lens Exam | Membership? | Walk-ins? | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam's Club Vision | $50-$100 | $85-$120 | Required | Yes | ~600 clubs |
| America's Best | $80 | $130 | None | Yes | ~1,000 |
| Walmart Vision Center | $75-$100 | $95-$130 | None | Yes | ~3,000 |
| Costco Optical | $79-$110 | $95-$140 | Not for exam | Limited | ~580 warehouses |
| Target Optical | $70-$100 | $95-$130 | None | Yes | ~500 |
| Warby Parker | $85+ | $95+ | None | Appointment preferred | ~250 |
| LensCrafters | $73-$150 | $100-$150 | None | Yes | ~900 |
| Visionworks | $75-$100 | $99-$140 | None | Yes | ~700 |
| Pearle Vision | $80-$130 | $100-$150 | None | Yes | ~500 |
Retail-chain exam prices are typical reported ranges, not chain-published rates. At Walmart, Costco, Sam's Club, Target Optical and most of these chains the exam is performed by an independent optometrist who sets the fee locally, so the chains do not publish a single national exam price. Membership requirements are the chains' own published policies. Confirm the current fee with your local store before booking.
Provider-by-Provider Breakdown
Sam's Club Vision
America's Best
Walmart Vision Center
Costco Optical
Target Optical
Warby Parker
LensCrafters
Visionworks
Pearle Vision
How to Choose the Right Provider
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an eye exam at Walmart without insurance?
Walmart Vision Centers typically run $75-$100 for a comprehensive eye exam without insurance. That is a reported range rather than a chain-published price, because the exam is conducted by an independent optometrist who sets the fee locally. No membership is required. Walk-ins are accepted at most locations, though appointments are recommended at busy stores.
How much is an eye exam at Costco?
Costco Optical exams cost $79-$110 without insurance. The optometrists are independent practitioners, not Costco employees. A Costco membership is not required to see the optometrist (only to purchase glasses or contacts in-store). Contact lens fitting is typically an additional $95-$140.
Is LensCrafters or Walmart cheaper for an eye exam?
Walmart is generally cheaper at $75-$100 versus LensCrafters at $73-$150. For the lowest cost overall, EyeMart Express ($60-$85) and America's Best (free exam with a two-pair purchase) tend to beat both with no membership; Sam's Club ($50-$100) is competitive but needs a membership.
What is the cheapest eye exam chain in the US?
No single chain is dramatically cheapest in 2026. EyeMart Express ($60-$85) and America's Best (free exam with a two-pair glasses purchase, or $80 standalone) are among the lowest with no membership. Sam's Club ($50-$100) can be cheap at the low end but requires a membership. Walmart ($75-$100) is the most widely available no-membership option.