How much are hearing aids? Answered by audiologists

How much do hearing aids cost?

Generally speaking, our audiologists say the average price of a single prescription hearing aid ranges from $1,000 to $3,500. In many cases, individuals need a pair of hearing aids, in which case the total price can generally be between $2,000 to $7,000.  The exact price depends on the hearing aid model, type, the audiologist’s relationship with vendors, walk-in prices vs. pre-negotiated, and the overall technology offered in the device. The technology level is often the biggest determinant of cost, but the style also can influence the price. This also holds true for the cost of OTC hearing aids.

Generally speaking, over the counter hearing aids can range in price from $300 to $2,000 per pair. With the FDA deploying regulations and policies to govern an OTC hearing aid industry, prices of OTC devices are much lower than their prescription counterparts. Two significant points of value for American consumers in the OTC hearing aid market include price and access. For anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss, OTC hearing aids are suitable for your needs, they are now widely available, and they cost much less than pre-OTC market.

There are many different styles of hearing aids to help meet the unique needs of hearing loss patients. For example, people with active lifestyles may prefer an invisible-in-canal device, which rests deep within a person’s ear canal. Others may opt for a behind-the-ear (BTE) model.

BTE hearing aid cost

Behind-the-ear (BTE) models are worn externally and usually cost a little less than ITE or ITC styles. While a BTE hearing aid uses a custom earmold, the earmolds are typically included in the price. Dr. Hinson notes that some clinics may charge extra for this, however, adding up to $100 extra per device.  Expect to pay between $1,000 and $6,000 for a pair of BTE hearing aids, depending on the manufacturer and technology level.

ITE hearing aid cost

ITE hearing aids fit inside the ear, but outside of the ear canal. They typically cost around $1,000 to $6,000 per pair depending on technology level.

RIC hearing aid cost

The price for receiver-in-canal hearing aids hover in between ITE and BTE hearing aids. Depending on the features and technology, they usually cost between $1,200 and $7,000.

ITC and CIC hearing aid cost

Tiny, discreet, and almost invisible, ITC hearing aids rest inside the ear but not fully inside the ear canal.  CIC hearing aids fit completely inside the ear canal. Both types are tailor-made and are typically the most expensive kinds of hearing aid, costing between $2,000 and $7,000.

What is included in the cost of hearing aids?

Comparing hearing aids, brands, and features can feel overwhelming, particularly when you factor in the high cost of prescription hearing aids. One of your options for potentially lower costs is to compare bundled and unbundled services. Unbundled will cost less upfront, for example. This way to save is typically available to an individual with hearing loss, giving more people access to care.

Bundled hearing aid services

As the name implies, bundled hearing aid services mean that most, if not all, aspects of a person’s hearing care are included with the price of hearing aids. This price tag consists of the cost of the medical devices themselves and a professional fitting with a hearing care professional. The bundled cost of hearing aids typically includes the devices, initial fitting, orientation, and additional services. These services usually include all follow-up visits for adjustments, fine-tuning, cleaning, and maintenance. Follow-up visits are typically included throughout the warranty period, but some audiologists offer lifetime follow-up services in their bundled model.

Pros of bundling

• It streamlines costs. With bundled services, you get most, if not all, aspects of hearing aid care covered for one price. Hearing aids often need maintenance throughout their lifetime and at no additional cost. By bundling services, you avoid paying service fees at each visit.
• Less stress. If tracking every penny and new category related to your hearing aid costs feels overwhelming, bundling services may bring peace of mind.
• Diagnostic testing may be included. Sometimes, the first diagnostic hearing test will be bundled with the price.

Cons of bundling

• Read the fine print. Some providers may limit the number of appointments you can book for fine-tuning.
• You may be paying a high price tag for services you don’t need. Can you handle cleaning and maintaining your hearing aid on your own? You may not need as many visits and may end up paying less by unbundling your services.
• Lack of transparency. You don’t get an itemized list of what you’re paying for, so it’s unclear if the high price is primarily for the prescription device, fitting, check-ups, etc. Consequently, you can’t re-evaluate whether bundling is worth it when purchasing a new hearing aid.

Unbundled hearing aid services offer a more a la carte approach. You’re paying for the hearing aid rather than the services, such as testing and fine-tuning. This option has become increasingly attractive to patients with mild to moderate or self-diagnosed hearing loss in the wake of the new FDA rule, which opened up a more competitive marketplace. However, the rule doesn’t apply to prescription hearing aid users, who still must be evaluated and prescribed devices by an audiologist.

Pros of unbundling

• Transparency. With unbundling,  you know where your money is going and can itemize expenses.
• The lower cost upfront. The main reason for someone’s decision to go with unbundling is the lower initial cost.
  • Can you handle cleaning and maintaining your hearing aid on your own? You may not need as many visits and may end up paying less by unbundling your services.
• It leaves room for your unique needs. You may need fewer fine-tunings and follow-ups than the average hearing aid wearer. Unbundled services don’t lump all users together.

Cons of unbundling

• More expenses. The need for maintenance is inevitable, so you will incur those costs eventually.
• Foresight needed. You’ll need to plan, track, and budget for additional costs, so the unbundled model is not as streamlined.
• More stress. If the process of needing a hearing aid already feels like a lot, all the tracking and foresight may exacerbate the issue.

What factors affect the price of hearing aids?

The average price of a single hearing aid has such a wide range because many factors go into setting it. Here are some of the main factors:

Additional features

The hearing aid market is quite diverse. Advanced technology has given rise to extra features that enhance sound quality and everyday life. Artificial intelligence, directional microphones, the ability to connect with electronic devices like smartphones via Bluetooth, and more can result in a higher price. Most hearing aids feature at least Bluetooth connectivity, but some models are even able to conduct two way hands-free phone calls.

Medical insurance coverage

Currently, hearing aids are not covered by Medicare Part A or B. However, a Medicare Advantage Plan, private insurance policies, and Medicaid may cover part of the cost. It’s always a good idea to check with your provider.

Batteries 

Devices using rechargeable batteries typically cost more upfront, but can save time and money long-term. On the flip side, models with disposable batteries tend to last longer on a single charge. Therefore, a rechargeable model is a good option if you’d rather save money in the long run and have a lifestyle that allows for daily charging. A disposable model is better suited if you’d rather not pay as much for the device itself, but you’re willing to pay for disposable batteries approximately every 4-7 days if worn every day.

Year of the model 

Like cars, hearing aids come out with newer models constantly. An older one is likely to cost less. Even choosing last year’s model, which often has similar features, can allow you to save on high-quality hearing aids. However, hearing aid technology gets upgraded constantly, so you may miss out on a couple of the new features by purchasing an older model. You’ll also want to check the manufacturer’s warranty to be sure the older model is still covered.

Services 

A device isn’t the only factor in maintaining your hearing health. You’ll need support, maintenance, check-ups, and additional testing. These professional services may be included in the price tag of a hearing aid, especially if you opt for bundled services.

While an audiologist appointment isn’t legally necessary to purchase an over-the-counter model, it’s still a good idea to take any new pair of hearing aids to a professional to have them adjusted as much as possible before using them.

Does health insurance cover hearing aids?

Navigating hearing aid prices can feel like a tall task. Ditto for finding affordable hearing aids. You may be eligible for financial assistance or have financing options available to you.

Medicare & Medicaid

While Medicare Part A and B doesn’t pay for hearing aids or hearing exams, some Medicare Advantage Plans may help cover the cost. If you have Medicare or Medicaid, we wrote a guide that can help you determine what options are available.

Private Insurance

Private insurance often doesn’t cover hearing aids, but it depends on your policy and your state of residency. Some states require health insurance policies to cover at least part of the cost. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the following states require health benefits to cover pediatric hearing aids:

• Colorado
• Delaware
• Georgia
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Montana
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Vermont

Benefits must cover adult and children hearing aids in:

• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island

Wisconsin requires insurance policies to cover hearing aids and cochlear implants for children. The requirements may vary by state for multiple factors, including age, such as what qualifies as a child, and coverage amount.

Veteran benefits

If military service resulted in hearing loss, you may be eligible for free hearing aids from the VA. Otherwise, hearing aids aren’t typically covered.

Financing Options

Most hearing aid providers offer financing options. Typically, the wearer will go on a payment plan, opening a credit card or credit line to pay back the overall cost in smaller increments. An audiology center may also offer a leasing plan, and you can trade your device for a new model with upgraded technology after a period of time (similar to what people do with cars).

Over-the-counter vs prescription hearing aids

In 2022, the FDA approved over-the-counter hearing aids for adults 18 and over. The ruling allows individuals to purchase FDA-regulated medical devices even without a hearing exam or audiologist appointment. No prescription is required.

Prescription hearing aids

Prescription aids from one of the six major hearing aid manufacturers—Starkey, Oticon, ReSound, Phonak, Widex, and Signia—are only available to purchase after a hearing evaluation from an audiologist. While the required hearing tests and the devices themselves cost more than simply purchasing an over-the-counter model, prescription hearing aids are generally tailored to your individual level of hearing loss, which may make them more effective. Think of it like commissioning a tailor to make you a custom suit instead of going to a department store to buy one in a standard size.

Over-the-counter hearing aids

Since prescription hearing aids are so expensive, over-the-counter models may become more popular now that the FDA stepped in to regulate their safety. These models are often Bluetooth compatible and are a great choice for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss to help with everyday activities.

Pros & cons of over-the-counter hearing aids

The FDA ruling on OTC hearing devices made way for key benefits, including:

• Cost-effective — OTC hearing aids cost around $300 to $900 annually — significantly lower than the average price of prescription hearing aids.
• No need for a prescription — This helps streamline the process and cut costs.
• Adjustable and often Bluetooth compatible — Some customization is possible. OTC devices may offer technology features of prescription devices, like Bluetooth compatibility, allowing the wearer to talk on the phone, watch TV, and more, though they likely cost more than those without these features.

The OTC hearing aid market opened the door for multiple benefits. But you’ll want to consider these drawbacks, too.

• Not designed for those with severe to profound hearing loss — Most OTC hearing aids are not powerful enough for patients with severe to profound hearing loss. Individuals with severe or profound hearing loss and those who have trouble with background noise will still need to go through a hearing care provider.
• May not be custom fitted — Without an appointment with a hearing care professional, the wearer may be taking their best guess on fit.
• Not always matched to a hearing test — No hearing test is required, so a person may not choose the absolute best device for their unique needs.

Our favorite over-the-counter hearing aids

Over-the-counter hearing aids are an exciting development. Brands like Lucid Hearing, Eargo, GoHearing, and Jabra Enhance are among the popular OTC hearing aid providers. These are three we love.

• Jabra Enhance. Jabra Enhance medical-grade hearing aids offer similar quality as prescription devices for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The company’s customer service, including virtual and in-person support from audiologists, help set Jabra Enhance apart.
• Lexie Hearing. Modern technology can offer great perks, but not everyone is tech-savvy. Lexie’s easy-to-use devices don’t require you to be.
• Sontro. These BTE hearing aids are some of the more discreet on the market. The otoTune app helps the user match their device to their environment.

Hearing aids are expensive, with prescription options carrying four-figure price tags. But a 2022 FDA ruling opened the door for OTC options for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, which is considerably lower, coming in at under $1,000 per device. Many factors can increase the price, including whether you bundle professional services, add customization or technology, or purchase the newest model.

How to save money on hearing aids

Hearing aids can restore value to your quality of life, but they may weigh heavily on your budget. Here are ways to make a hearing aid purchase more affordable.

Buying online

While you can only purchase prescription hearing aids through your audiologist, you can buy over-the-counter or even used prescription hearing aids online. If you decide to buy used hearing aids, opt for a BTE or RIC model since those aren’t as fitted to your ear as a ITE option. A used prescription hearing aid also won’t be tailored to your level of hearing loss and can be gross without a thorough cleaning since they may store debris from the former owner. For these reasons, you’ll need to take the used hearing aids to an audiologist so they can adjust and thoroughly clean them before you try them on. While this service will cost you something, you’ll still save money overall.

Refurbished hearing aids

Like used hearing aids, only refurbished BTE or RIC models should be considered. ITE styles are less likely to fit since they were tailored to another individual’s ears. Purchasing a refurbished prescription hearing aid through an audiologist may give you technology superior to over-the-counter models while still saving you hundreds of dollars—the best case scenario.

Financial assistance programs

Health insurance also doesn’t usually cover hearing aids, but it depends on your plan. Ultimately, you’ll find more opportunities through a non-profit program or your state government. For example, the American Bar Association (ABA), called for broader hearing aid coverage. The ABA cited, among other data, the fact that age-related hearing loss is one of the most common conditions among older Americans.