The Vision Council (TVC) has published its “Market inSights Q2 2025” report, providing analysis on the performance of the $17.4 billion U.S. optical industry. The report covers categories including eye exams, frames, lenses, contact lenses, readers, eyeglasses, and plano sunglasses.

The second quarter of 2025 recorded an $800 million decline in sales compared to the first quarter, reflecting seasonal shopping trends in the sector. Market value also fell 1.5% year-over-year. Sales volumes decreased across all product categories except plano sunglasses.

“The second quarter data reflects both the challenges and resilience within the optical industry,” says Alysse Henkel, TVC’s vice president of research and insights. “While overall market value softened compared to the first quarter, we continue to see consistent demand for core vision care. At the same time, consumer preferences show a willingness to pay more per exam or frame, suggesting that consumers are still investing in their eye care and eyewear even as sales volumes have decreased.” 

Key findings from Q2 2025 include:

• The market value of exams increased 14% year-over-year, though exam volume declined 4.5%. The average value of an exam rose by nearly $17 compared to 2024.

• Lenses led the prescription market in value, increasing almost 4% from Q2 2024.

• Frame sales volume decreased year over year, while the average price of frames rose by about $21.

• The average value of plano sunglasses declined both year over year and quarter over quarter.

• Reader volume held steady compared to Q1 2025, though overall reader sales dropped from 2024 levels.

• Contact lens sales volume fell 7% year over year and 1% compared to Q1 2025.

TVC’s estimates draw on multiple data sources, including consumer retail spending, patient billing and payment information, optical retail location data, and consumer surveys.

The full report is available here as a complimentary download for members and for nonmembers to purchase.