Why most Americans prefer glasses over contact lenses
Contact lenses have been around for decades, and laser vision correction isn’t exactly new. But for most Americans who need help seeing clearly, one option still dominates: glasses.
New data from YouGov Profiles reveals that half of all U.S. adults (48%) wear only prescription glasses. A smaller group, 12%, switch between glasses and contact lenses, while just 3% rely only on contacts. Women are slightly more likely than men to use both options (14% vs. 10%), and to stick with glasses exclusively (49% vs. 46%).
When we look at the data by generation, Baby Boomers are the most likely to wear only glasses (67%), followed by Gen X (55%), Millennials (39%) and Gen Z (37%). Conversely, younger generations are more open to contact lenses. Some 6% of Gen Z and 4% of Millennials wear only contacts, compared to just 2% of Gen X and Baby Boomers. Gen Z (13%) and Millennials (15%) are also the most likely to alternate between glasses and contacts, while only 6% of Baby Boomers report using both.
But across demographics, the numbers tell the same story: most people who correct their vision do it with a pair of frames.
Convenience comes first
For those who only wear glasses, the most common reason is straightforward: they’re easy. Some 45% of these Americans say they don’t think they could get used to contact lenses. Another 36% highlight how low-maintenance glasses are, while 34% feel glasses are safer because there’s less risk of eye infections or damage.
Cost plays a part as well. One in five (21%) say glasses are less expensive than contact lenses, and 15% report that contacts aren’t even an option for their specific vision needs. A further 10% say their insurance covers the full cost of glasses, while 7% cite coverage gaps for contacts as a reason to avoid them.
And while glasses aren’t always thought of as a fashion statement, 17% say they make them feel stylish and comfortable, a reminder that eyewear can be about more than just function.
Who’s wearing contact lenses?
About 4% of U.S. adults rely solely on contact lenses (4% men and 3% women). Looking at age groups, younger Americans are more likely to wear only contact lenses. Some 7% of adults aged 18 to 24 wear just contacts, compared to 5% of those aged 25 to 34. That figure drops with age: just 3% of 35- to 44-year-olds and 45- to 54-year-olds wear only contacts, and among those 55 and older, only 2% do.
Glasses remain the default choice
While the eyewear industry continues to innovate, with blue light blockers, custom lenses, and sleek frame designs, Americans still prefer the basics. For most, glasses are familiar, simple, and safe.
And despite the availability of contacts and corrective surgery, it’s clear that the standard pair of glasses remains firmly in focus for everyday life in the U.S.
Methodology: YouGov Profiles is based on continuously collected data and rolling surveys, rather than from a single limited questionnaire. Profiles data for the US is nationally representative and weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race.