The Cost of Hearing Aid Devices in 2023

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The cost of hearing aids can vary widely. It depends on many factors, including the brand, style, size and technology level. More advanced aids usually command a higher price.

Below, learn about the price of different types of hearing aids available in 2023, plus information about cost factors, service models, insurance coverage, similar devices and finding the best hearing aids at affordable prices.

The cost of hearing aids remains high in 2023, with average prices ranging from about $1,000 to $4,000 for one hearing aid, depending on the type you choose. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for less, but the OTC options may not be suitable for you, depending on your circumstances. Additionally, you might require devices for both ears, which will double these costs.

Multiple factors determine the cost of hearing aids. More modern and technologically advanced hearing aids are pricier. For example, smaller devices worn in the ear canal, which are sleeker and less noticeable, are typically more expensive than those worn behind the ear.

In addition to the cost of the devices, there are other costs related to getting hearing aids, such as hearing tests, hearing aid fittings and follow-ups with your audiologist. You might also need to pay your audiologist to adjust a hearing aid if it doesn’t fit or work properly. Also, consider the cost of hearing aid accessories such as batteries for non-rechargeable aids, portable chargers for rechargeable hearing aids, carrying cases and cleaning tools.

Discuss your options with your doctor. More expensive hearing aids may save you money in the long run. For example, rechargeable hearing aids require a greater initial investment than battery-operated hearing aids, but you don’t have to worry about purchasing batteries.

Health insurance often doesn’t cover the cost of hearing aids, but it may vary by state. Some states require health insurance companies to pay for hearing aids for children and adults, though specific requirements vary.

The following states require health insurance companies to pay for hearing aids for children:

Colorado

Delaware

Georgia

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Minnesota

Missouri

Montana

New Jersey

New Mexico

North Carolina

Oklahoma

Oregon

Tennessee

Texas

Vermont

Wisconsin (also requires cochlear implants be covered)

The following states require hearing aid coverage for children and adults:

Arkansas

Connecticut

Illinois

New Hampshire

Rhode Island

Health insurance companies that aren’t mandated by your state to pay for hearing aids might still cover the partial or full cost of these devices and any related services, such as fitting and follow-ups, minus a copay. Check with your insurance provider to see what you are entitled to before booking a consultation with an audiologist.

The type of hearing aids you need and want will influence how much you pay. Typically, the smaller and more discreet devices are more expensive.

Most manufacturers don’t provide their costs online but require you to visit a hearing professional to purchase. Based on scanning various audiology sources and manufacturers online, we were able to determine ballpark estimates of how much hearing aids cost. Use this as a guide, but know that estimates are not infallible and guaranteed prices. The cost range for each style of hearing aid is large because prices vary significantly by manufacturer and technology. Visit your audiologist for your most accurate and personalized pricing. Your cost can vary depending on your location, insurance and more.

Here is more information about the different types of hearing aids and which ones tend to be the most expensive.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, suitable for mild to severe hearing loss, have most of their parts outside of the ear in a plastic case. This case includes a microphone, receiver, battery and small tube that transmits sound to an earpiece that rests inside the ear canal. This style is popular for children because you can replace the earmolds as the child grows and needs a new fit. These devices are available in different sizes, with smaller and more discreet ones generally costing more.

You can purchase a pair of OTC BTE hearing aids for around a few hundred dollars to $1,000 at the minimum. Expect to pay a minimum of around $1,000 for one good-quality BTE hearing aid in a regular size and around $2,000 or more for a smaller aid.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids contain a microphone, amplifier and battery in a plastic case that rests inside the ear canal, making them less noticeable than even the smallest BTE devices. These are ideal for mild to severe hearing loss. These hearing aids still might be too large if you have small or narrow ear canals — in this case, BTE aids may be a better choice. Because of their size, expect to pay more for these hearing devices, typically around $1,000 to $3,000 per aid on average, though prices vary significantly.

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids, used for mild to severe hearing loss, rest behind the ear and have a plastic case with a microphone, amplifier and battery. They are similar to BTE models but can be more discrete and provide better sound quality. A nearly invisible wire connects the case to an earpiece that sits inside the ear canal.

As the name implies, the receiver is inside the canal as well. Some manufacturers may call this style receiver-in-ear (RIE) or receiver-in-the-ear (RITE). Average prices for RIC devices can be around $2,000 to $3,000 per aid. Like all other models, you can find OTC options for less.

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are smaller than regular ITE hearing aids and sit deeper in the ear canal. However, they are still more visible than completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible-in-canal (IIC) aids, meaning they might cost slightly less but prices vary based on the hearing aid’s technology. Costs can range anywhere from $1,000 to a few thousand dollars per aid on average for basic models. More advanced ones will cost more.

CIC aids, also used for mild to moderate hearing loss, are similar to ITC devices but are smaller and rest even deeper inside the ear canal, making them almost unnoticeable. These will likely be on the pricier side than other hearing aids. Prices may be around $2,000 per device, but can climb as high as $6,000 or more.

IIC aids are among the most expensive hearing aid types because they are even smaller and more discreet than CIC aids. IIC devices fit inside your ear canal and are the most discreet option available. Options may cost around a few thousand dollars to $6,000 or more, but custom or prescription ones may be more expensive.

The total cost of hearing aids may include audiology services in addition to the cost of the devices, which we’ll go through below. Audiologists generally use two different models when pricing these services.

The unbundled service model separates the cost of hearing aids from the cost of hearing care services. That means you pick the services you need and pay for these as you go. For example, you can choose when and how often to have follow-up appointments and routine cleanings after your initial fitting for a hearing aid.

Because you choose the services you want, the unbundled service model gives you more control over your hearing care. It also allows you to shop around for offerings from multiple hearing aid providers in your area.

Your audiologist might consolidate, or “bundle,” several hearing care services together, which you pay for upfront. While this reduces your customization options, it may be a good idea for those seeking a simpler pricing plan and ease of use.

Bundled services normally include the following items and services:

Bundles include the cost of a hearing device. However, you might be limited by the type of device you can choose. For example, your bundle might not allow you to pick more expensive devices or ones manufactured by certain brands.

Bundles also typically include the cost of a hearing test and consultation, which enable you to discuss your specific hearing issues with your audiologist before being fitted for a device.

Your audiologist might include the cost of your hearing aid fitting in a bundle. This process involves choosing the best hearing aids based on your circumstances, collecting ear impressions, customizing the hearing aid settings and providing instructions for using your device correctly. A hearing aid fitting can take one to two hours, and your audiologist may require you to attend follow-up appointments after the fitting to ensure your aid fits and works correctly.

A hearing aid warranty covers any repairs or replacements you might need if your device malfunctions or stops working. Some warranties cover hearing aids for several years, providing ongoing peace of mind. You can file a claim on your warranty if you experience a problem with your device rather than paying out of pocket for repairs and replacements.

Like all warranties, you might not be able to claim repairs if your hearing aid doesn’t work correctly because of misuse or neglect on your behalf. In these scenarios, you will have to pay for the full cost of repairs.

Professional hearing aid cleaning services can improve your device’s sound quality, reduce distortion and prolong performance. You will often find cleaning services included in bundles.

The cleaning process involves cleaning your hearing aid’s exterior, tubing, microphone and receiver. Your audiologist might recommend you get your hearing aids professionally cleaned every six months or so. If you have problems with ear wax buildup, you might need cleaning services more frequently.

Hearing aids and hearing amplifiers both help people with hearing loss issues. However, hearing aids manage your specific hearing loss concerns, while amplifiers improve sound frequencies for everyone. Hearing aids, for example, enhance the particular sounds you have trouble hearing, such as background noises. The FDA classifies hearing aids as medical devices but doesn’t classify hearing amplifiers as such.

When you visit an audiologist for a hearing aid fitting, they will customize the device based on your unique hearing profile, allowing you to hear sounds more clearly in different environments. Your audiologist will then fit your device to your specific ear shape and size.

On the other hand, hearing amplifiers are not customizable, and you can purchase them without visiting an audiologist. These products are available without a prescription from stores such as Amazon and Walmart.

While amplifiers might be effective for people with very mild hearing problems, aids are better suited to those with mild to severe hearing loss. Amplifiers fall into the category of personal sound amplification (PSA) devices and are much more affordable than hearing aids. Expect to pay $10 to $500 for one of these products.

Some hearing aids are available without a visit to an audiologist. In 2022, the FDA approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are more affordable than prescription hearing aids. They’re available without a prescription and may not require a hearing test or fitting. You can find OTC aids in stores like Walmart and Walgreens.

Over-the-counter, cheap hearing aids might be effective if you have trouble hearing some sounds. These devices amplify noises in different listening environments to a certain degree. However, prescription hearing aids are a better choice if you have significant hearing difficulties and require a tailor-made solution for your particular needs. OTC hearing aids are not suitable for children.

The first step to getting affordable hearing aids is to check with your insurance to see if any of the cost is covered. After that, compare different quotes from audiologists to get a general idea of how much these devices cost. Purchasing a bundle from an audiologist might be cost-effective in the long run. You can also check whether audiologists offer special discounts or offers on certain hearing aid types or brands.

Another way to find hearing aids at affordable prices is to purchase used, refurbished devices from reputable hearing care providers. These hearing aids are considerably cheaper than new ones and are legal to buy, although states have different requirements for how they can be sold. All states require sellers to attach a tag to devices that indicate they have been previously owned and used.

You can also check whether you are entitled to free hearing aids from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This government agency provides hearing aids to veterans with hearing loss issues. To qualify, you must enroll at a VA medical center and show your driver’s license, health insurance card (if applicable) and a copy of your DD214 form.