🏢 Overview of Each Provider

Costco Optical
Costco Optical is a retail-based vision care solution, offering in-house eye exams, affordable frames, and contact lenses at warehouse pricing. While it doesn’t offer insurance, it provides deep discounts for Costco members through its optical departments.

EyeMed Vision Insurance
EyeMed is a leading vision insurance provider offering comprehensive coverage for eye exams, prescription eyewear, contact lenses, and LASIK discounts. It is accepted nationwide and available via individual and employer plans.

📋 Plan Types & Coverage

Costco Optical

• Eye exams available in-store, typically between $65–$95, provided by independent optometrists.

• Offers affordable pricing on frames, lenses, and contacts.

• No insurance plan or monthly fee—just Costco membership required.

• Limited to services performed in-store or on Costco’s vision website.

EyeMed

• Includes annual eye exams, allowances for frames and contacts, and discounts on lens enhancements like anti-reflective coatings and progressives.

• Offers multiple plans tailored for glasses, contacts, or both.

• Includes LASIK discounts, coverage for multiple eyewear purchases, and out-of-network reimbursement.

🏥 Provider Network & Retail Partners

Costco Optical

• Vision services available only at Costco Optical locations.

• No traditional provider network—only services from in-store optometrists.

• Limited retail flexibility: services and pricing exclusive to Costco.

EyeMed

• Access to over 44,000+ in-network eye care providers.

• Includes popular retailers such as LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, ContactsDirect, and Costco Optical (in some states and with specific plans).

• Offers wide network coverage for both retail and private optometrists.

💵 Pricing & Premiums

Costco Optical

• No monthly premiums—you pay out of pocket per visit or purchase.

• Eye exams: ~$65–$95

• Frames: typically $50–$150, with designer brands available

• Contact lenses: often cheaper than traditional retail

• Requires Costco membership (~$60/year)

EyeMed

• Plans start around $5–$15/month, depending on the state and tier.

• Copays for exams are usually $10, with frame/contact allowances from $120–$200+.

• Best value for frequent eye care users or those needing lens enhancements.

📲 Ease of Use & Enrollment

Costco Optical

• No enrollment—just visit your local Costco Optical and pay as needed.

• Appointment scheduling is done by calling your local warehouse.

• Must be a Costco member to access services.

EyeMed

• Quick online enrollment at eyemed.com

• Access to member tools, digital ID cards, and provider search

• Year-round enrollment for individual and family plans

🎁 Extras & Discounts

Costco Optical

• Offers affordable lens enhancements (e.g., anti-glare, transitions) at lower-than-average retail prices.

• Access to high-quality Kirkland Signature lenses and brand-name frames.

• No additional wellness perks or multi-pair discounts.

EyeMed

• Discounts on LASIK, hearing aids, and additional pairs of glasses

• Special pricing on lens upgrades, blue light protection, and more

• Often includes exclusive member deals via online retailers

🎯 Best For…

Costco Optical

• Ideal for Costco members looking for low-cost, straightforward vision care.

• Great for those who don’t use vision services frequently or prefer to pay out of pocket.

• Best for individuals who are already loyal Costco shoppers.

EyeMed

• Ideal for individuals and families who need ongoing vision care and insurance-style benefits.

• Best for users who want provider flexibility, routine exams, and lens coverage.

• Perfect for those who want savings on enhancements and multiple visits or purchases each year.

✅ Pros and Cons

Costco Optical
Pros:
✔ No premiums or contracts
✔ Affordable pricing on eyewear
✔ High-quality products at wholesale rates

Cons:
✖ Must be a Costco member
✖ Limited to Costco locations
✖ No insurance coverage or out-of-network options

EyeMed Vision Insurance
Pros:
✔ Broad provider network
✔ Full insurance coverage including exams and eyewear
✔ Discounts on LASIK and lens enhancements

Cons:
✖ Monthly premium required
✖ Must stay in-network for full benefits

🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Costco Optical if you want affordable, no-frills vision care, already shop at Costco, and prefer to pay as you go.

Choose EyeMed if you want insurance benefits, access to multiple providers, and the ability to save on upgrades and yearly eye care.

If you only need basic exams and glasses occasionally, Costco will likely save you money. If you or your family members have regular eye care needs, EyeMed provides more long-term value.

📞 How to Get a Quote or Enroll

Costco Optical

• Visit your local Costco Optical or call to schedule an appointment

• Bring your Costco membership card

• Pay at the time of service—no enrollment required

EyeMed

• Go to www.eyemed.com

• Enter your ZIP code to compare plans and pricing

• Enroll online in minutes and get instant access to benefits