How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in Chicago, IL?
Chicago pricing is 15% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, humid-continental climate conditions, and Chicago's finance-manufacturing-logistics economy.See our methodology
Cataract Surgery Pricing in Chicago, IL
In Chicago, cataract surgery costs are 15% above the national average, reflecting the city's finance-manufacturing-logistics-driven economy. The union-heavy labor market means you have decent options when shopping for quotes. Most residents with a population base of 2.7M find the pricing competitive relative to the local cost of living.
Local climate plays a direct role in cataract surgery costs here. Brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects.
Market-specific factors matter in Chicago: strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks.
Chicago has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your cataract surgery project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.
Chicago vs National Average
What Affects Cataract Surgery Cost in Chicago?
With Insurance
Standard IOL: $500-$1,500 out of pocket. Premium IOL: $2,000-$5,000 out of pocket per eye
Without Insurance
Standard: $3,000-$5,000 per eye. Premium: $4,500-$7,000 per eye
Chicago Market Conditions
strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks
Local Climate Impact
brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects
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Top-Rated Cataract Surgery Pros in Chicago, IL
3 providersFamily First Surgical Center
⭐ PREMIUMServing Chicago and surrounding areas since 2017. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Gentle Care Eye Care
⭐ PREMIUMServing Chicago and surrounding areas since 1989. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Summit Family Medicine
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Tips to Save on Cataract Surgery in Chicago
- 1.Standard monofocal IOLs are fully covered by most insurance — you only pay copay and deductible
- 2.Premium IOLs (multifocal, toric) are elective upgrades that cost $1,000-$3,000 extra per eye
- 3.Medicare covers cataract surgery with standard IOLs
- 4.Ask about doing both eyes at the same facility for potential savings
- 5.Chicago has a strong union labor market. While rates may be higher, union contractors typically carry better insurance and offer workmanship guarantees.
📈 Cataract Surgery in Chicago Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $4,395 | — |
| 2021 | $4,580 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $4,878 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $5,015 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $5,175 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for Cataract Surgery in Chicago
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. It's one of the safest surgeries performed, with a 95%+ success rate. Most patients see significant improvement within days.
Why does cataract surgery cost different in Chicago than other cities?
Chicago's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the finance-manufacturing-logistics economy, humid-continental climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The union-heavy labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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