How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in San Diego, CA?
San Diego pricing is 32% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and San Diego's defense-biotech-tourism economy.See our methodology
Cataract Surgery Pricing in San Diego, CA
San Diego is a high-cost market where cataract surgery runs about 32% above the national average. The city's defense-biotech-tourism economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 1.4M, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in cataract surgery costs here. Mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes.
Market-specific factors matter in San Diego: high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work.
San Diego has strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your cataract surgery project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
San Diego vs National Average
What Affects Cataract Surgery Cost in San Diego?
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
San Diego Market Conditions
high cost of living drives premium pricing; coastal location means salt air corrosion affects roofing and exterior work
Local Climate Impact
mild year-round climate means consistent pricing without seasonal spikes
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Top-Rated Cataract Surgery Pros in San Diego, CA
7 providersSummit Family Medicine
⭐ PREMIUMServing San Diego and surrounding areas since 2008. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Bright Smile Medical Center
✅ VERIFIEDValley Family Medicine
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Tips to Save on Cataract Surgery in San Diego
- 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.In San Diego, verify your contractor handles local permits — the permitting process here is more involved than average and DIY permit applications can cause delays.
📈 Cataract Surgery in San Diego Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $5,045 | — |
| 2021 | $5,257 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $5,599 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $5,756 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $5,940 | +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 San Diego
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 San Diego than other cities?
San Diego's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the defense-biotech-tourism economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and strict permitting requirements. The competitive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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