So, how much should I pay for hearing aids?

It’s one of the first questions people ask when considering hearing aids—and it’s a fair question.

The answer, however, isn't simply a dollar amount. The better question may be: What am I getting for the money I spend?

For this discussion, we need to assume you have a hearing loss that is affecting your ability to communicate and understand the world around you.  We also are going to assume you are aware of the link between untreated hearing loss and early onset dementia and the risk involved in prolonging treatment.

So, what are the options?

Over The Counter (OTC) and Online Hearing Aids 

OTC and online hearing devices range in price and quality. You can find products advertised for less than $100 a pair, while better-quality OTC hearing aids can cost $1,000 or more.

Buyer beware at the very low end of this market. Some inexpensive devices advertised as “hearing aids” may be little more than basic amplifiers, and exaggerated marketing claims are common.

At the higher end, there are good companies offer reputable products and support.  However, these aids are limited to helping those with Mild to Mild-Moderate hearing loss.  By law, the amplification is limited.  Thus, if you have Moderate to Severe hearing loss, they will not benefit you at all.

OTC hearing aids are intended for adults 18 and older who perceive that they have mild-to-moderate hearing loss. They are sold without requiring a hearing examination, prescription, or professional fitting.

For the right person with a relatively uncomplicated hearing loss, an OTC product can be a reasonable and economical place to start. But if your hearing loss is more significant, complicated, or accompanied by symptoms such as sudden hearing changes, pain, drainage, dizziness, or significant differences between your ears, professional evaluation is the better choice.

Big-Box Retailers

Big-box retailers have become significant players in hearing healthcare. Depending on the retailer and location, they may offer hearing testing, professionally fitted hearing aids, and follow-up services at attractive prices.

A pair of hearing aids in this market will commonly cost approximately $2,000 to $4,000, although pricing and services vary.

For many consumers, this can represent good value. The trade-off may be convenience, continuity of care, product selection, appointment availability, or the range of services provided compared with a dedicated hearing clinic.

When comparing prices, be sure you're comparing more than the hearing aids themselves. Ask what testing, fitting, verification, follow-up appointments, repairs, warranties, loss-and-damage coverage, and ongoing adjustments are included.

Hearing Aid Clinics and Audiology Practices

Dedicated hearing clinics and audiology practices generally provide the most comprehensive approach to hearing care.

Here is where you find the very best of testing, service and support by Audiologists or Licensed Hearing Aid Dispensers.  Personalized product selection, programming, verification, counseling, follow-up adjustments and ongoing service.

Depending on the technology, provider, geographic market, and services included, professionally fitted hearing aids can range from roughly $2,000 to $8,000 or more per pair.

That sounds expensive—because it can be.

But it's important to understand that you're usually purchasing much more than two hearing aids. A professionally fitted hearing aid package may include years of professional expertise, adjustments, cleaning, repairs, counseling, warranties, and ongoing support.  In my Beltone practice, most of those services are offered at no cost for as long as you own the products.  This can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the aids. 

So, again, What Should You pay?

My recommendation is fairly simple.

If you have a mild or uncomplicated hearing loss and price is your primary concern, a reputable OTC hearing aid may be worth considering. I would avoid the bargain-basement products and concentrate on established manufacturers that provide meaningful customer support and a good return policy.

If you're comfortable receiving hearing care through a retail environment, a big-box provider can offer good technology at a competitive price. Just understand exactly what services are—and are not—included.

If your priority is achieving the best possible long-term hearing outcome, especially with a moderate or more significant hearing loss, I recommend establishing a relationship with a dedicated hearing healthcare professional.

Ultimately, don't shop for hearing aids based on price alone. Shop for value.

A Special Note for Veterans

If you're a U.S. military veteran who qualifies for VA hearing healthcare, don't overlook this benefit. The VA has an extensive hearing healthcare program, and eligible veterans may receive hearing aids and related services at little or no out-of-pocket cost.

As a veteran myself, I recognize that there can be trade-offs involving convenience, scheduling, provider choice, and other factors. But for eligible veterans, the VA should certainly be considered when evaluating hearing-care options.

Here’s The Bottom Line

You can spend a few hundred dollars on hearing devices or several thousand dollars on professionally fitted hearing aids.

The cheapest option isn't automatically the best value—and neither is the most expensive.

The right hearing aids are the ones that are appropriate for your hearing loss, properly fitted, supported over time, and most importantly, actually help you communicate better and live your life more fully.

That's what you're really paying for.

Author: Perry Ebel, Board Certified Hearing Specialist