How Much Does Eye Exam Cost in Columbia, SC?

Columbia pricing is 15% below the national average. Updated for 2026.

Based on local labor rates, varied climate conditions, and Columbia's diversified economy.See our methodology

Low End

$43

Average

$128

High End

$255

exam

Eye Exam Pricing in Columbia, SC

Columbia is one of the more affordable markets for eye exam, with costs running about 15% below the national average. The city's diversified economy and balanced labor market create favorable conditions for competitive pricing. Getting multiple quotes from the 135K-population metro area is straightforward.

Local climate plays a direct role in eye exam costs here. Hot humid summers drive HVAC and pest control demand; hurricane risk in coastal areas.

Market-specific factors matter in Columbia: growing market with competitive contractor rates.

Columbia has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your eye exam project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.

Columbia vs National Average

Columbia Average

$128

National Average

$150

Difference

-15%

What Affects Eye Exam Cost in Columbia?

Provider

Optometrist: $75-$200; ophthalmologist: $150-$300

Contact fitting

Adds $50-$100

Testing

Retinal photos add $25-$50

Columbia Market Conditions

growing market with competitive contractor rates

Local Climate Impact

hot humid summers drive HVAC and pest control demand; hurricane risk in coastal areas

📐 Eye Exam in Columbia Cost Calculator

Get a personalized estimate based on your project details

Project Size / Scope

Your Region

Find a Provider Near You

Compare costs and book appointments with top-rated providers.

Top-Rated Eye Exam Pros in Columbia, SC

4 providers

Metro Medical Center

✅ VERIFIED

★★★★★4(143 reviews)

📍 553 Center St, Columbia, SC🏗️ Since 2001

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A+⚡ Usually responds in 2 hours

Get a Quote 📞 (600) 380-1429

Advanced Medical Center

★★★★★4.8(83 reviews)

📍 558 Elm St, Columbia, SC🏗️ Since 1997

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A+

Get a Quote 📞 (660) 418-1659

Premier Medical Center

★★★★★4.5(39 reviews)

📍 725 Center St, Columbia, SC🏗️ Since 1988

✓ LicensedBBB: A

Get a Quote 📞 (537) 625-1815

Are You a Eye Exam Professional?

Get listed on CostWhale and reach thousands of customers searching for eye exam in Columbia, SC.

🏆 Get Sponsored — $249/mo Claim Free Listing

🔍 Find Top-Rated Dentists Near You

Read reviews, compare prices, and book appointments with dentists in your area.

Find a Dentist →

* CostWhale may earn a commission. This doesn't affect our pricing data or recommendations.

Tips to Save on Eye Exam in Columbia

1.Use vision insurance
2.Walmart/Costco offer $75-$100 exams
3.Skip optional retinal imaging
4.Combine with glasses purchase

📈 Eye Exam in Columbia Cost Trends (2020–2024)

Prices have increased +17.4% over the last 5 years

$109

2020

$114

2021

$121

2022

$124

2023

$128

2024

Year	National Avg	YoY Change
2020	$109	—
2021	$114	+4.6%
2022	$121	+6.1%
2023	$124	+2.5%
2024	$128	+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 Eye Exam in Columbia

$134

Avg Reported

$94

Lowest Reported

$194

Highest Reported

Recent Reports

$115

Dallas, TX · Jan 2024

★★★★☆

$137

Chicago, IL · Feb 2024

★★★☆☆

$135

Phoenix, AZ · Mar 2024

★★★☆☆

$131

Denver, CO · Apr 2024

★★★★☆

$131

Atlanta, GA · May 2024

★★★☆☆

$146

Seattle, WA · Jun 2024

★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

Cost without insurance?

$75-$200 at optometrist; $150-$300 at ophthalmologist.

How often?

Every 1-2 years for adults.

Why does eye exam cost different in Columbia than other cities?

Columbia's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the diversified economy, varied climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The balanced labor market also influences competitive pricing.