Flu season is upon us, and with it comes the annual public health recommendation for vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that everyone aged 6 months and older get a flu shot before the end of October each year, with very few exceptions. Following historically slow flu seasons in recent years, often attributed to widespread COVID-19 precautions, the flu has seen a resurgence. The CDC estimates that between October 1, 2024, and January 18, 2025, there were 16-28 million flu illnesses, 7.1-12 million medical visits, 190,000-420,000 hospital visits, and 8,300-41,000 deaths. On average, approximately 9.3 to 41 million U.S. residents get the flu each year, leading to 120,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations and 6,300 to 52,000 deaths. The burden of flu, combined with COVID-19 and RSV, can strain the U.S. healthcare system. While the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, it remains an essential tool for preventing serious flu-related complications.
For many Americans, obtaining a flu shot is straightforward and cost-effective, especially for those with health insurance. Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance plans are required to cover the cost of flu shots administered by in-network providers without any co-payment. This coverage extends to most employer-sponsored plans, public health insurance exchanges, and Medicare Part B for individuals over 65. Most state Medicaid agencies also cover flu shots for participants. Consequently, for insured individuals, the primary task is locating a convenient in-network provider.
Beyond standard health insurance pathways, numerous businesses and organizations offer free flu shot programs as a public health service or employee benefit. Employers are a significant source of no-cost vaccinations. Many companies provide free on-site flu shot clinics for employees and sometimes their families, recognizing the high cost of flu-related lost productivity, which is estimated at $11.2 billion annually. Employees should check with their human resources department to see if their employer offers such a program and to inquire about any available vouchers for external pharmacies if an on-site clinic is not provided.
Schools and universities are another common venue for free flu shots, particularly for students. Campus health centers often offer vaccinations at no cost, aiming to increase vaccination rates among young adults. A 2017 Harris Poll conducted for the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases found that fewer than half of college students regularly get the flu vaccine, making these on-campus programs a critical access point.
For individuals without insurance or those with high-deductible plans, several low-cost and free options exist. County health departments and community health centers frequently offer free or sliding-scale flu shots, especially for children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations. While these are excellent resources, they may involve longer waiting times. Urgent care centers can also provide low-cost shots for the uninsured, but it is essential to call ahead to confirm availability and affordable pricing.
Pharmacy chains and supermarkets with on-site pharmacies are among the most accessible and widely advertised locations for flu shots. These retailers often run promotional campaigns, making them a popular choice for consumers seeking convenience and potential incentives.
Major Retail Pharmacy and Grocery Store Programs
Many large pharmacy and grocery chains offer free flu shots with most insurance plans and welcome walk-ins, though it is prudent to confirm appointment requirements online or by phone. The following is a summary of offerings from major retailers as reported for the 2025 flu season.
Costco Costco members can access low prices on flu shots. Most insurance plans cover flu shots at Costco at no cost. For members without insurance, flu shots are available at a discounted price of $21.99 through the Member Prescription Discount program.
Kroger At Kroger, flu shots are free with most insurance plans, and walk-ins are accepted. No appointment is necessary. For those paying out of pocket, the cost ranges from $50 to $60.
Meijer Meijer offers free flu shots with most insurance plans while you shop for groceries. No appointment is required. Out-of-pocket costs are between $50 and $60.
Publix Publix provides free flu shots with most insurance plans at its in-store pharmacies. No appointment is necessary. Out-of-pocket costs range from $50 to $60.
CVS Pharmacy (including Target locations) CVS offers free flu shots with most insurance plans and Medicare Part B. At CVS locations inside Target, customers can receive a $10 off $20 Target coupon with any vaccine. For those without insurance, the cost is $65–$70 at standalone CVS pharmacies and $49.99 at Target locations.
Safeway Safeway offers free flu shots with most insurance plans. Additionally, customers can receive a $20 grocery coupon after getting vaccinated. Without insurance, the cost is $30–$45.
Walgreens At Walgreens, flu shots are free with most insurance plans. myWalgreens members earn 20% off their next purchase when they get any vaccine. For the uninsured, the cost is $40–$50. Walgreens also accepts prescription savings clubs like SingleCare and GoodRx for additional discounts.
Walmart Walmart offers flu shots at most in-store pharmacies, free with insurance. Appointments are available, but walk-ins are also welcome. Without insurance, the cost is $45–$55.
Sam’s Club Sam’s Club provides flu shots free with insurance, and a membership is not required to receive a vaccine. For those without insurance, the cost is $20–$130.
Low-Cost Options for the Uninsured
For individuals without health insurance, several programs and discount services can help reduce the cost of a flu shot. GoodRx is a widely used platform that helps users find affordable flu shot prices at pharmacies across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program covers the administration fee, with prices starting around $35 for adults under 65 and $65–$68 for seniors. This can be a valuable tool for comparing prices at local pharmacies.
Some pharmacies and retailers also offer drive-through flu shot services, providing added convenience. As with any healthcare service, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability and cost, especially when paying out of pocket.
Conclusion
Accessing a free or low-cost flu shot in the United States is highly achievable for most residents, thanks to a combination of health insurance mandates, employer-sponsored programs, public health initiatives, and retail promotions. Insured individuals can typically receive a flu shot at no cost at in-network pharmacies, grocery stores, urgent care centers, or through their doctor. Employers, schools, and community health centers provide additional no-cost avenues. For those without insurance, options such as county health departments, community centers, and discount programs like GoodRx offer affordable solutions, with some retailers providing shots for as low as $20. Given the significant public health impact of influenza, utilizing these accessible resources is a prudent step for protecting individual and community health.