How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in Washington D.C., DC?
Washington D.C. pricing is 35% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, humid-subtropical climate conditions, and Washington D.C.'s government-defense-lobbying economy.See our methodology
Cataract Surgery Pricing in Washington D.C., DC
Washington D.C. is a high-cost market where cataract surgery runs about 35% above the national average. The city's government-defense-lobbying economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 690K, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in cataract surgery costs here. Hot humid summers and cold winters create year-round HVAC demand; historic preservation rules affect renovation costs.
Market-specific factors matter in Washington D.C.: high cost of living and government contractor rates inflate all service pricing; historic district rules can double renovation costs.
Washington D.C. 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.
Washington D.C. vs National Average
What Affects Cataract Surgery Cost in Washington D.C.?
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
Washington D.C. Market Conditions
high cost of living and government contractor rates inflate all service pricing; historic district rules can double renovation costs
Local Climate Impact
hot humid summers and cold winters create year-round HVAC demand; historic preservation rules affect renovation costs
📐 Cataract Surgery in Washington D.C. Cost Calculator
Get a personalized estimate based on your project details
Find a Provider Near You
Compare costs and book appointments with top-rated providers.
Top-Rated Cataract Surgery Pros in Washington D.C., DC
7 providersFamily First Dental Group
⭐ PREMIUMServing Washington D.C. and surrounding areas since 1990. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Advanced Medical Center
⭐ PREMIUMServing Washington D.C. and surrounding areas since 2016. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.
Premier Surgical Center
Are You a Cataract Surgery Professional?
Get listed on CostWhale and reach thousands of customers searching for cataract surgery in Washington D.C., DC.
🔍 Find Top-Rated Dentists Near You
Read reviews, compare prices, and book appointments with dentists in your area.
* CostWhale may earn a commission. This doesn't affect our pricing data or recommendations.
Tips to Save on Cataract Surgery in Washington D.C.
- 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 Washington D.C., 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 Washington D.C. Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $5,160 | — |
| 2021 | $5,377 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $5,727 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $5,887 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $6,075 | +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 Washington D.C.
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 Washington D.C. than other cities?
Washington D.C.'s costs reflect local labor rates driven by the government-defense-lobbying economy, humid-subtropical climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and strict permitting requirements. The expensive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
Cataract Surgery Cost in Nearby Cities
Related Cost Guides for Washington D.C.
Popular Services in Washington D.C.
💰 Get Weekly Cost-Saving Tips
Join 10,000+ smart homeowners. Unsubscribe anytime.