How Much Is a Costco Eye Exam? (And Why Arizona's Vision Offers More Value)

The Real Cost: What Warehouse Eye Care Doesn't Include

1. Advanced Diagnostic Technology: Optomap Retinal Imaging

At Costco: Basic eye exam with standard equipment only. Advanced retinal imaging? Not available at any price.

At Arizona's Vision: Add Optomap digital retinal imaging – think of it as an MRI for your eyes.

What is Optomap?

• Captures 200° ultra-widefield view of your retina in seconds
• Detects eye diseases years earlier than traditional methods
• Non-invasive, no dilation required in most cases
• Creates a permanent digital record to track changes over time
• Can reveal signs of serious conditions: retinal detachment, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, even brain tumors and cardiovascular disease

Why it matters: This technology can detect vision-threatening conditions before you have any symptoms. Early detection can literally save your sight.

Real story: One of our patients added the Optomap to her routine exam. It revealed early signs of a retinal tear that would have led to blindness within weeks if undetected. She later told us, "Best $25 I ever spent with my VSP plan."

2. Current, Premium Frame Selection vs. Discontinued Inventory

At Costco: Here's what most people don't know – Costco primarily sells:

• Discontinued frame styles that manufacturers are phasing out
• Returned inventory from other optical shops that couldn't sell them
• Overstock purchased at deep discounts

This is why their prices are lower – you're getting last season's (or last year's) styles that other customers already passed on.

At Arizona's Vision:

• Current season collections from premium designers
• Exclusive styles you won't find at warehouse clubs
• Frames selected specifically for our clientele – not whatever the manufacturer is trying to liquidate
• Expert styling consultation to find frames that complement:
  • Your facial structure and proportions
  • Your skin tone and coloring
  • Your personal style and lifestyle
  • Your professional image

Your eyewear is the first thing people notice about you. Do you want to wear frames that other offices couldn't sell, or frames chosen specifically to make you look and feel your best?

3. Personalized Care vs. Volume Processing

At Costco:

• High-volume environment focused on efficiency
• Different staff members each visit
• Limited time for questions or concerns
• Basic prescription, minimal health screening

At Arizona's Vision:

• Unhurried appointments with the same trusted professionals
• Comprehensive eye health evaluation (not just a prescription)
• Time to discuss your visual needs, lifestyle, and concerns
• Proactive monitoring of eye health over time
• Direct access to your optometrist when issues arise

We're not trying to process as many patients as possible. We're building relationships and protecting your vision for life.

4. Expert Lens Technology Recommendations

At Costco: Standard lens options with limited guidance on what's best for your specific needs.

At Arizona's Vision: Customized lens solutions based on:

• Your daily activities (computer work, driving, reading, sports)
• Your visual demands and challenges
• Your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences
• The latest lens technologies that can transform your vision

Advanced options include:

• Premium progressive lenses designed for your exact measurements
• Blue light protection calibrated to your screen exposure
• Anti-reflective coatings optimized for your environment
• Photochromic lenses matched to your outdoor activities
• High-index materials for thinner, lighter, more attractive glasses

The right lenses can mean the difference between "I can see okay" and "Wow, I didn't know vision could be this clear and comfortable!"

The True Value Comparison

Costco Eye Exam: $70-$100

• Basic refractive exam
• Standard equipment only
• No advanced retinal imaging available
• Discontinued or returned frames
• Limited personalization
• Volume-focused service
• Limited insurance acceptance

Arizona's Vision with VSP Insurance:

• Exam: $10-$25 copay (VSP in-network)
• Optomap: $25 copay or $0 (covered by many VSP plans!)
• Total out-of-pocket: $10-$50 for comprehensive care with advanced technology
• Current premium frame collections
• Expert styling consultation
• Ongoing relationship and care

VSP members: You actually pay LESS at Arizona's Vision than at Costco – and get exponentially more value!

Arizona's Vision without Insurance: $99 Exam + $39 Optomap = $138

• Comprehensive eye health evaluation
• Optomap digital retinal imaging (like an MRI for your eyes) – technology Costco doesn't offer
• Current premium frame collections
• Expert styling consultation based on your features and coloring
• Customized lens recommendations
• Ongoing care and relationship
• Investment in your long-term vision health and appearance

For $38-$68 more than Costco (or LESS with VSP), you get exponentially more value: advanced technology that can save your vision, current designer frames, and personalized expert care.

Is the Optomap Worth $25-$39?

Consider this:

• Early detection of retinal tears, detachments, or holes
• Screening for macular degeneration (leading cause of blindness in adults)
• Detection of diabetic retinopathy before vision loss occurs
• Identification of melanomas and other eye cancers
• Signs of hypertension, stroke risk, and cardiovascular disease
• Permanent digital record to track changes over time

One patient's perspective: "I almost skipped the Optomap to save $39. Then the doctor showed me early signs of glaucoma that would have gone undetected for years. That $39 literally saved my vision. Now I get it every year without question."

Our recommendation: If you're over 40, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease, the Optomap is one of the best investments you can make in your health.

Insurance Coverage: We Make It Easy

Unlike Costco's limited insurance acceptance, we work with virtually all major vision plans:

✅ Fully Accepted In-Network Plans:

• Vision Service Plan (VSP) – Full in-network benefits
• EyeMed – Full in-network benefits
• Avesis – Full in-network benefits
• Medicare – We accept Medicare assignment

✅ Accepted with Some Restrictions:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Cigna
• Aetna
• Many other major medical and vision plans

Call us to verify your specific plan coverage – we'll maximize your benefits and explain everything clearly.

Out-of-Network? We'll Help You Get Reimbursed

Even if your plan isn't listed above, we can help!

We'll assist you in submitting paperwork to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement. Many patients get 50-80% of their costs back.

How it works:

1. Pay for your exam and eyewear at our office
2. We provide you with a detailed receipt and claim forms
3. We help you complete the paperwork correctly
4. You submit to your insurance company
5. You receive reimbursement directly (typically within 2-4 weeks)

Why this matters: You get the premium care and personalized service you deserve, while still accessing your insurance benefits – even if we're not in your specific network.

The Insurance Advantage Over Costco

Costco: Limited insurance acceptance, often requires you to pay upfront and handle reimbursement entirely on your own.

Arizona's Vision:

• Broader insurance acceptance (VSP, EyeMed, Avesis, Medicare, and more)
• We file claims directly for in-network plans
• We help you with out-of-network reimbursement paperwork
• Clear explanation of your benefits before you commit
• No surprises – we verify coverage upfront

Many patients discover their insurance covers most or all of their exam cost, making Arizona's Vision the same price or even less expensive than paying out-of-pocket at Costco.

Real Cost Comparison with Insurance

Scenario 1: You Have VSP Insurance ⭐ BEST VALUE

At Costco:

• Exam: $70-$100 (may not be in-network)
• Advanced retinal imaging: Not available
• Total: $70-$100 for basic exam only

At Arizona's Vision:

• Exam: $10-$25 copay (VSP in-network)
• Optomap: $25 copay or $0 (many plans cover it fully!)
• Total: $10-$50 for comprehensive exam + advanced imaging

VSP members save $20-$90 AND get technology Costco doesn't offer!

Scenario 2: You Have EyeMed or Avesis

At Costco: May not be in-network; you pay full price

At Arizona's Vision: Fully covered or minimal copay

Your actual cost: $10-$25 exam + $39 Optomap (if not covered) = $49-$64 total

Scenario 3: You Have Medicare

At Costco: Limited Medicare acceptance

At Arizona's Vision: Full Medicare acceptance

Your actual cost: Medicare-approved amount (often very affordable)

Scenario 4: You Have Out-of-Network Benefits

At Costco: $80 (you handle all reimbursement paperwork alone)

At Arizona's Vision: $138 exam + Optomap, minus $80-$110 reimbursement (we help with paperwork) = $28-$58 actual cost

You get advanced technology and personalized care for potentially less than Costco's basic exam

What Our Patients Say

"I used to go to Costco thinking I was saving money. Then I learned their frames were discontinued styles that other stores returned. At Arizona's Vision, I found current designer frames that actually suit my face and coloring. The Optomap scan also caught an issue early. Best $138 I ever spent." – Sarah M., Phoenix

"The Optomap imaging is incredible – I could see my entire retina on the screen in real-time. My doctor explained everything and caught early signs of macular degeneration. You can't put a price on catching something like that early." – Jennifer L., Tempe

"The optician spent 30 minutes helping me find frames that complement my coloring and features. At Costco, I got 5 minutes and frames from last year's collection. The personalized service alone was worth the small price difference." – Michael T., Scottsdale

"With my VSP insurance, I paid $35 total for my exam and Optomap. That's LESS than Costco charges for a basic exam! Why would I go anywhere else?" – David R., Phoenix

Why Patients Switch from Costco to Arizona's Vision

Top reasons we hear:

1. "With my VSP plan, Arizona's Vision is actually CHEAPER than Costco" – And you get the Optomap for just $25 or free!
2. "Costco doesn't offer advanced retinal imaging at any price" – The Optomap technology provides peace of mind you can't get at warehouse clubs
3. "I didn't realize Costco's frames were discontinued styles" – Patients want current fashion, not liquidated inventory
4. "The frame selection advice was life-changing" – Professional styling based on your coloring and features makes a dramatic difference
5. "Arizona's Vision accepts my insurance and handles everything" – No fighting with paperwork or reimbursement hassles
6. "I felt rushed at Costco" – Our patients appreciate unhurried, personalized attention
7. "I needed specialized care for dry eye/keratoconus" – Warehouse clubs can't provide advanced treatment options

When Warehouse Eye Care Makes Sense (And When It Doesn't)

Costco may work for you if:

• You're comfortable wearing discontinued frame styles
• You don't want advanced diagnostic technology
• You have a stable, simple prescription with no health concerns
• You're willing to sacrifice personalized service to save $38-$68 (or pay more if you have VSP)

Arizona's Vision is the better choice if:

• You want access to the most advanced eye health screening available (Optomap)
• You care about wearing current styles that complement your unique features
• You value expert recommendations tailored to your coloring and personality
• You want a relationship with your eye care provider, not just a transaction
• You have VSP, EyeMed, Avesis, or Medicare (you'll likely pay less with us!)
• You understand that a small additional investment provides exponentially more value
• You have or are at risk for eye diseases requiring early detection

First-Time Patient Pricing

Comprehensive Eye Exam: $99

✓ Complete eye health evaluation
✓ Prescription for glasses and/or contact lenses
✓ Personalized frame styling consultation
✓ Expert lens technology recommendations
✓ Ongoing care and support

Add Optomap Digital Retinal Imaging: +$39 (or $25 with VSP)

✓ 200° ultra-widefield view of your retina
✓ Early detection of eye diseases and systemic conditions
✓ Non-invasive, no dilation needed in most cases
✓ Permanent digital record for future comparison
✓ Peace of mind that comes with the most advanced screening

Total without insurance: $138 for comprehensive care and technology that Costco cannot match

Total with VSP: As low as $10-$50 – often LESS than Costco!

Plus: We accept most major vision insurance plans (VSP, EyeMed, Avesis, Medicare, and more) – your insurance may cover most or all of the exam cost!

Experience the Arizona's Vision Difference

For VSP members: You'll actually pay LESS at Arizona's Vision than at Costco – and get:

• Optomap technology for $25 or $0 (not available at Costco at any price)
• Current premium frames (not discontinued inventory)
• Expert styling based on your unique features and coloring
• Comprehensive health screening, not just a prescription
• A trusted relationship with professionals who know you

For other insurance plans: Your benefits may cover most or all of your care – call us to find out!

Even without insurance: $138 total ($99 exam + $39 Optomap) gives you technology and personalized care that Costco simply cannot match.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Costco eye exam?

Costco eye exams typically cost $70-$100 depending on location. However, this is a basic refractive exam with standard equipment only and does not include advanced retinal imaging technology.

How much does the Optomap cost with VSP insurance?

VSP members typically pay just $25 copay for Optomap retinal imaging, and some VSP plans cover it 100%. Without insurance, the standard rate is $39.

Is the Optomap imaging worth the cost?

Absolutely. For $25-$39, you get early detection of potentially blinding conditions. Many patients tell us it's the best investment they make in their health. We especially recommend it for patients over 40, those with diabetes or high blood pressure, and anyone with a family history of eye disease.

Do you accept VSP insurance?

Yes! We're fully in-network with VSP. Most VSP members pay just $10-$25 for their comprehensive exam, and the Optomap is often only $25 or even fully covered. That means you get premium care with advanced technology for less than you'd pay at Costco!

What insurance plans do you accept?

We accept VSP, EyeMed, Avesis, Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, and many other plans. We also help with out-of-network reimbursement paperwork so you can get 50-80% back from your insurance company. Call us at (480) 706-3937 to verify your specific coverage.

How do I know if Costco's frames are discontinued?

Ask them directly – or compare their inventory to current collections on designer websites. You'll notice their styles are typically 1-2 years old or no longer featured in current catalogs. Costco primarily sells discontinued styles, returned inventory from other shops, and manufacturer overstock.

What if you're not in my insurance network?

No problem! We'll help you submit for out-of-network reimbursement. Most patients get 50-80% back from their insurance company. We provide all the paperwork and guidance you need to make the process simple and straightforward.

Will my insurance cover the Optomap imaging?

Some plans cover it, some don't. VSP members typically pay $25 or get it free. We'll check your specific benefits and let you know before your exam. Even if it's not covered, many patients feel the $39 investment is worth the peace of mind and early disease detection.

What if I'm not happy with my glasses?

We stand behind our recommendations with satisfaction guarantees and complimentary adjustments until your glasses are perfect. We also provide ongoing care including free adjustments, cleanings, and minor repairs.

How long does the exam take?

Plan for 45-60 minutes. We don't rush – your eye health and satisfaction are worth the time. This includes the comprehensive exam, Optomap imaging (if selected), and personalized frame styling consultation.

Can I skip the Optomap and just get the basic exam?

Absolutely – the Optomap is optional. However, we strongly recommend it for comprehensive eye health screening, especially if you have risk factors or haven't had advanced retinal imaging before. It's one of the best investments you can make in your long-term vision health.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We offer flexible payment options for eyewear purchases. Ask us about our financing options during your visit.

The Bottom Line

• VSP members: Pay $10-$50 total at Arizona's Vision vs. $70-$100 at Costco – and get advanced Optomap imaging that Costco doesn't offer
• Other insurance: Your benefits likely make our care very affordable – call to verify
• No insurance: $138 total for comprehensive exam + Optomap vs. Costco's $70-$100 basic exam with no advanced technology

The choice is clear: Premium care, advanced technology, current designer frames, and personalized service – often for less than warehouse pricing.