How much do hearing aids cost?
Expect to pay $1,000 to $4,000 per ear

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The average price for one hearing aid is around $2,300, but costs commonly range from $1,000 to $4,000 per ear. Premium hearing aids, which may be necessary for individuals with severe hearing loss, can cost upwards of $6,000 per ear.
However, you likely won’t need to pay the full cost upfront unless you choose to. Many hearing aid sellers have financing options or let you pay in monthly installments.
The average cost of hearing aids ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 per ear.
Jump to insightThere are two major types of hearing devices: PSAPs and hearing aids, but only hearing aids are recommended to help with hearing loss.
Jump to insightMake sure you explore financial assistance and financing options, which could help with the cost of hearing aids.
Jump to insightWhat you should know about hearing aid costs
Hearing aids typically cost around $2,300 per ear, depending on the type of device and its additional features. You may save some money if you buy two hearing aids together, though.
You likely won’t need to pay the full cost upfront unless you choose to."
You likely won’t need to pay the full cost upfront unless you choose to. Many hearing aid sellers have financing options or let you pay in monthly installments.
Quality hearing aids can also last several years, especially if the user’s hearing loss remains stable over time. Divided over four years, the cost of a $4,000 hearing aid is about $2.74 per day.
These prices typically include the cost of the device itself as well as testing, fitting and adjustment. Many companies also bundle routine cleaning and maintenance into their prices.
» LEARN: How do hearing aids work?
What affects the price of a hearing aid?
Multiple factors can affect the price of a hearing aid, including its:
- Configuration: There are many styles of hearing aids, ranging from budget options to high-end devices designed for severe hearing loss.
- Features: In addition to helping users hear better, many hearing aids now come with features like Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging. The more features that are packed into a device, the more expensive it will usually be.
- Brand: There's a limited number of companies that sell hearing aids, and the lack of competition can lead to higher prices for individuals. A 2021 executive order in the U.S. has helped more people access affordable hearing devices, though.
- Warranty: Not all companies include a warranty, and those that do may charge extra as a result.
- Bundled benefits: Many companies bundle additional services into the cost of a hearing aid. These benefits may include a hearing test, a consultation with a professional (sometimes an audiologist), fittings, adjustments and cleanings. Companies that include these services in the cost will likely charge more per device.
Losing hearing aids is relatively common, which is why hearing aids with a “find my hearing aids” feature may be worth the extra cost.
» MORE: Best invisible hearing aids
In 2021, President Joe Biden issued an executive order to help expand access to affordable hearing aids by allowing over-the-counter (OTC) sales that do not require a prescription. This is an extension of a 2017 executive order that directed the FDA to develop regulations for OTC hearing aids.
The rule created a new category of OTC hearing aids that can be sold directly to customers in stores or online. Large retailers like Walgreens, CVS, Best Buy and Walmart sell hearing aids at significantly lower prices than average (some are even as low as $200). Purchasing these devices does not require an exam or audiologist fitting for any adult with "mild-to-moderate" hearing loss.
» LEARN MORE: Types of hearing loss
Why do hearing aids cost so much?
Hearing aid costs are typically bundled with other services to ensure the hearing devices you purchase match your or your loved one’s specific hearing needs. This is frequently why hearing aids are so expensive.
However, a bundled cost model can leave room for upcharges and unclear pricing.
If you’re interested in purchasing a hearing aid and are exploring potential ways to save on costs, ask about unbundling. With an unbundled price, you get a better understanding of what services you’re paying for.
You can also ask for an itemized sheet to really understand your costs. Online stores can also reduce the cost of hearing aids by selling their products and providing consultations entirely online.
Hearing aid price comparison
There are two main types of hearing devices on the market, and it’s important to know the differences between them.
Personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) are a type of hearing device, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recommend them to help with hearing loss. Instead, these devices are usually intended to amplify sound for activities that require better hearing, such as hunting or bird-watching.
People shopping for hearing aids are often drawn to PSAPs because they tend to be much more affordable than hearing aids, but a PSAP may not help you at all if you have hearing loss. These devices use a microphone, amplifier and receiver to make all sounds louder, and, as a result, they can actually cause hearing damage if used incorrectly.
Hearing aids, on the other hand, are intended for use by people with hearing loss. Hearing aids often have more features than PSAPs, and they are almost always customized to the user’s hearing needs.
Check the chart below to help you decide which type of device is best suited to you.
PSAP | Hearing aid | |
---|---|---|
Cost | $250 to $350 | $1,000 to $4,000 |
Amplifies sound | ||
FDA-approved | — | |
Fitted by a professional | — | Usually |
Tailored for the individual | — | |
Warranties | — | Usually |
Modifies sound waves | — |
Financial assistance for hearing aids
Hearing aids can provide significant quality-of-life improvements for people with hearing loss, but the price can make it difficult for many to purchase them upfront. If you’re looking for ways to make hearing aids more affordable, there are several options to look into:
- Insurance: While most health insurance policies don’t cover the cost of hearing aids, some plans do. We recommend reaching out to your insurance company before shopping or looking at other payment options to see what hearing-related expenses you can get covered.
- Financing: Some hearing aid providers offer financing or payment plans that fit your budget better than paying upfront. These plans can break an intimidating upfront cost into manageable monthly payments.
- Medicaid: Every state’s Medicaid plan covers hearing services and hearing aids for qualifying beneficiaries under the age of 21. In some states, low-income adults may also get support from Medicaid to help with buying hearing aids. Contact your local Medicaid agency to determine your eligibility.
- State programs: Some states offer financial assistance programs, like assistive technology loan programs, hearing aid loan programs or programs for children with disabilities. Be sure to check for programs that are available in your state.
- Charities: There are many charities designed to help pay for hearing devices for those who need financial support. These include hearing aid loaner banks and local charity organizations. Contact groups in your area to see what’s available to you.
FAQ
Does insurance pay for hearing aids?
Most health insurance policies don’t cover hearing aid costs. However, some plans do, and there are specialty plans available for hearing coverage. How much your insurance will pay depends on the specifics of your policy.
Many insurance plans that include hearing aid costs cover a certain amount of the bill every few years, while other insurance providers offer discounts with specific hearing aid providers. Always check with your health insurance provider to understand the details of your plan.
Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn't cover hearing aids or hearing exams. However, Medicare does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams if your health care provider orders them.
You may also be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan that helps with hearing aid expenses, depending on where you live. Medicare Advantage plans are sometimes referred to as Part C or MA plans. Private companies approved by Medicare offer these Advantage plans.
However, not all Medicare Advantage plans include benefits for hearing services, and not all plans are available in all areas.
Does Medicaid pay for hearing aids?
All state Medicaid programs cover hearing aids and hearing services for qualifying beneficiaries under the age of 21, and programs in certain states may completely cover the cost of hearing aids for adults, too. Even if you’re not eligible for complete coverage, you might still qualify for discounts or partial coverage.
Eligibility conditions and coverage vary, so make sure to check with your state Medicaid program to find out if you are covered.
Can I buy hearing aids online?
You can buy hearing aids online, and this can be a good way to find discounts — especially if the company does bundle the cost with other professional services.
Even if your hearing aid does require professional fitting assistance, you may still be able to purchase them online and work with a local audiologist for the setup.
Do cheap hearing aids work?
Cheap hearing aids can be a solution for those with hearing loss, but the cheapest hearing devices on the market are actually PSAPs, which aren’t really hearing aids and aren’t recommended for dealing with hearing loss.
How long do hearing aids last?
Hearing aids last anywhere from three to seven years, with an average life span of five years. How long a hearing aid lasts depends on the type, quality, regular maintenance and more.
Bottom line
Being able to hear music, movies, the laughter of loved ones and the sounds of nature is worth the significant cost of hearing aids for many people, and it’s usually possible to find affordable hearing aids or payment plans that fit your budget. If you’re still unable to afford your hearing aids, check out your options for financial assistance, like Medicaid or local charities.
Article sources
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC), “FTC Staff Comment Regarding OTC Hearing Aids.” Accessed March 29, 2022.
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “How to get Hearing Aids.” Accessed March 25, 2021.
- The White House, “Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy.” Accessed March 29, 2022.
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids.” Accessed March 25, 2021.
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), “Executive Order on Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Released.” Accessed Feb. 27, 2022.
- Federal Drug Administration (FDA), “FDA Issues Landmark Proposal to Improve Access to Hearing Aid Technology for Millions of Americans.” Accessed Feb. 27, 2022.