The cost of a flu shot without insurance generally ranges from about **$20 to $130**, depending on the type of vaccine and where you get it. The most common flu vaccine, the standard quadrivalent shot, typically costs between **$22 and $70** out of pocket. For adults aged 65 and older, who often receive a high-dose or specialized vaccine, the price can be higher, usually between **$62 and $130**. These prices vary by pharmacy and location.
Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Costco offer flu shots at different prices. For example, Costco tends to have some of the lowest prices, with standard flu shots around **$22** and high-dose vaccines near **$62**. Other pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens usually charge more, with standard shots often costing between **$58 and $69**, and high-dose shots ranging from **$109 to $129**. Walmart prices fall somewhere in the middle, with standard shots around **$46** and high-dose shots about **$111**.
If you don’t have insurance, you might find ways to reduce these costs. Some community health centers, state health departments, and public health clinics offer free or low-cost flu shots, especially for children, seniors, or people with limited income. Programs like Vaccines for Children provide free flu vaccines for kids under 19. Additionally, discount programs such as GoodRx can help lower the price of flu vaccines at participating pharmacies, sometimes significantly.
It’s important to note that while the flu shot itself has a set price, there may be additional fees for administration, depending on the provider. Also, the availability of specific vaccine brands can vary by location, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to check which vaccines are in stock and their prices.
Getting a flu shot without insurance is definitely possible and can be affordable if you explore different options. Pharmacies, public health clinics, and discount programs all provide avenues to get vaccinated at a reasonable cost. Since the flu vaccine is recommended annually for nearly everyone starting at 6 months of age, finding an affordable option is key to protecting yourself and your community during flu season.
