The US optical industry maintained revenue during the first half of 2026 largely through higher prices, while patient volume and provider confidence declined, according to new research from The Vision Council. The Market inSights Q1-Q2 2026 and Provider inSights Q1-Q2 2026 reports found the optical market reached $19.06 billion in the second quarter, up from $18.39 billion in Q1. Exams, frames, and lenses reached 6-quarter highs in total market value during Q1, but higher per-unit prices drove the gains.

Exam volume declined by nearly 2.5 million visits during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. The Vision Council identified exam volume as a leading indicator for subsequent eyewear and contact lens sales. Provider inSights, which is based on a survey of 326 US eyecare providers, also found declines in new patient acquisition, patient retention, and staff hiring and retention compared with 2025 averages. Revenue, however, declined only marginally. Regarding staff hiring and retention, 40% of practices reported that they were optimally staffed, and 73% expected staffing levels to remain unchanged through year-end.

Economic pressures were also widely reported: 61% of providers said tariffs affected their practices, while 53% expected continued effects through the remainder of 2026. Inflation influenced operations for 74% of respondents.

Despite these conditions, providers continued carrying premium products. Ninety-two percent reported offering frames priced at $350 or more, while 49% offered smart eyewear; up from 39% a year earlier.

Looking at the broader economy, 63% of providers said conditions worsened during the first half of 2026 compared with the second half of 2025, and 56% expected further weakening before the end of the year.