Hearing Tests in San Francisco

Are you struggling to follow people talking on TV, during meetings or in everyday conversations? A hearing test helps us understand your hearing health and detect changes often before you notice them.

Types of Hearing Tests We Offer

At Hear SF, we offer a wide range of tests to help ensure you receive an accurate evaluation, early insight and better hearing outcomes. The types of hearing and ear health tests we provide include:

Pure-Tone Audiometry

This is the most common hearing test. You'll wear headphones and listen to beeps at various volumes and pitches. You will indicate when you hear a sound with your hand or a button. This test identifies the quietest sounds you can hear across different frequencies.

Speech Audiometry

This test evaluates how well you understand words when spoken. You'll listen to pre-recorded individual words or full sentences at different volumes and with background noise. This measures your ability to distinguish speech from background sounds.

What to Expect During Your Hearing Test

1. Quiet Testing Room

Calm, confidential setting

2. Headphones & Sounds

You’ll listen through headphones to a range of tones and speech while we measure and record your hearing responses.

3. Personalized Discussion

We review results and plan your best next steps.

Interpreting Your Hearing Test Results

After your testing is complete, we’ll show your results on a special chart called an audiogram. An audiogram plots sound volume (decibels) against frequency (pitch), showing which sounds you hear easily and where hearing loss may lie. Lower decibel points typically mean better hearing. Most people within the normal range of hearing can hear sounds quieter than 25 decibels, roughly the volume of a whisper.

Normal Hearing

You can hear sounds under 25dB.

Mild Hearing Loss

You can hear sounds between 25dB and 40dB, but softer sounds are difficult to catch.

Moderate Hearing Loss

You struggle with sounds under 41dB to 65dB.

Severe Hearing Loss

You have trouble hearing sounds under 66dB to 90dB.

Profound Hearing Loss

You need sounds to be louder than 90dB (similar to a lawnmower) in order to hear them.

Understanding Your Results:
What Happens After Your Hearing Test

Your hearing evaluation at Hear SF produces an audiogram — a visual map of your hearing across different pitches and volumes. Here’s how to make sense of what it shows and what it means for your next step.

Sensorineural hearing loss

It is the most common type, caused by changes to the inner ear or auditory nerve, often from aging, noise exposure, or genetics. Because the inner ear's hair cells don't regenerate, this type is typically permanent, but it's very effectively managed with properly fitted hearing aids or, in more advanced cases, cochlear implants.

Conductive hearing loss

Occurs when something physically blocks sound from passing through the outer or middle ear — earwax buildup, fluid from an infection, or a perforated eardrum are common causes. This type is often temporary and may resolve with medical treatment. If we find evidence of conductive loss, we'll let you know and, where appropriate, refer you to an ENT specialist.

Mixed hearing loss

It involves elements of both.

After reviewing your audiogram with you in plain language, we’ll outline your options honestly — whether that’s monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, hearing aids, or a referral. There is no pressure and no obligation to purchase anything at your appointment. Our goal is simply to make sure you leave informed.

Hearing Tests in San Francisco, CA — Expert Care at Hear SF

Located in San Francisco’s Inner Richmond neighborhood at 5138 Geary Blvd, Hear SF offers comprehensive diagnostic hearing evaluations for adults across the Bay Area. As an independent, locally owned practice, we bring a level of personalized attention that larger clinic networks often can’t match.

What sets our testing apart:

3D ear scanning

Beyond the standard audiogram, we offer 3D digital ear scanning for patients pursuing custom hearing solutions. This technology captures a precise digital model of your ear canal, replacing traditional ear impressions for a more comfortable, accurate fit.

Licensed hearing specialists

Our team holds California state licensure and ongoing training in current diagnostic protocols. We explain your audiogram in clear, jargon-free language so you actually understand your results.

Transparent pricing

We believe hearing care should be accessible. We'll explain your costs upfront, work with your insurance where applicable, and offer flexible payment options. You can also request a Good Faith Estimate before any services begin.

Serving San Francisco's diverse communities

We welcome patients from across the city's neighborhoods and are committed to culturally sensitive, patient-first care.

Most major insurance plans accepted. Call 415-319-7301 or schedule online — appointments available Monday through Friday, 9:30am–5:00pm.

Five Key Reasons to Have Your Hearing Tested

Protect Your Cognitive Health

Untreated hearing issues can contribute to memory problems, mood changes, and a higher risk of falls. By staying on top of your hearing, you help safeguard your brain’s overall well-being.

Avoid Escalating Healthcare Costs

Regular checkups can help you catch issues early and save money in the long run.

Monitor Your Overall Wellness

Routine tests are the best way to spot subtle changes. Plus, hearing problems can be an early indicator of underlying conditions like autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and circulation challenges.

Check for Medication Side Effects

From everyday pain relievers to powerful antibiotics, the medication you take may impact your hearing. A simple hearing test can reveal if you’re at risk of medication-induced hearing damage.

Stay Connected to Those Who Matter

Hearing loss can feel isolating, and repeatedly saying “What?” gets old fast. A hearing exam—and possible use of hearing aids—can help you maintain clear conversations and stay engaged with the people who mean the most.

Ready to test your hearing?

Schedule your appointment at Hear SF today and discover how better hearing can improve every part of your life.

Call 415-319-7301 or contact us online to schedule an appointment at Hear SF today.