Compare Health Insurance Plans
Compare total annual costs of different health insurance plans including premiums, deductibles, and estimated out-of-pocket expenses.
How This Health Plan Comparison Works
Our calculator helps you compare the TRUE total cost of health insurance plans - not just the monthly premium. Most people focus only on premium costs and end up paying more in the long run.
What We Calculate
- Annual Premium: Monthly premium × 12
- Deductible Impact: How much you pay before insurance kicks in
- Coinsurance: Typically 20% of costs after deductible
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Cap on your annual spending
- Expected Usage: Your anticipated medical needs
Common Plan Types
Best if: You need frequent medical care, have chronic conditions, or take expensive medications.
Best if: You're healthy, rarely see doctors, and want lower monthly costs. Eligible for HSA.
Best if: You have moderate healthcare needs and want a balance of premium vs out-of-pocket costs.
Important Notes
- • This calculator provides estimates based on typical scenarios
- • Actual costs depend on your specific plan's benefits and network
- • Prescription drug costs are highly variable and not included
- • Always review the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) document
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a high-deductible or low-deductible health plan?
Choose low-deductible (high premium) if:
- You have chronic conditions requiring regular care
- You take expensive prescription medications
- You're planning surgery or major procedures
- You prefer predictable monthly costs
Choose high-deductible (low premium) if:
- You're generally healthy with minimal medical needs
- You have emergency savings to cover the deductible
- You want to contribute to an HSA for tax savings
- You can handle financial uncertainty
What's the difference between deductible and out-of-pocket maximum?
Deductible: The amount you pay for covered services BEFORE insurance starts paying. Example: $1,500 deductible means you pay the first $1,500 of medical costs.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The MOST you'll pay in a year for covered services. After you reach this ($8,700 average), insurance pays 100%. This includes deductible + copays + coinsurance.
How much does health insurance cost per month in 2025?
Average monthly premiums in 2025 (individual coverage):
- • Bronze plans: $350-$450/month (high deductible: $6,000-$8,000)
- • Silver plans: $450-$600/month (moderate deductible: $3,000-$5,000)
- • Gold plans: $550-$750/month (low deductible: $1,000-$2,000)
- • Platinum plans: $700-$900/month (very low deductible: $0-$500)
Family coverage is typically 2.5-3x individual rates. Subsidies available based on income through Healthcare.gov.
When can I enroll in health insurance?
Open Enrollment Period: November 1 - January 15 (for coverage starting January 1). You can only enroll during this time unless you have a qualifying life event.
Special Enrollment (60-day window): Loss of coverage, marriage, birth/adoption, move to new state, income change affecting subsidy eligibility.
What if I can't afford health insurance?
Options if insurance is too expensive:
- Premium subsidies: Available for household income up to 400% of poverty level (~$60k individual, ~$124k family of 4)
- Medicaid: Free/low-cost for income below 138% poverty level (varies by state)
- CHIP: Children's coverage for families who don't qualify for Medicaid
- Short-term plans: Cheaper but limited coverage (not ACA-compliant)
- Health sharing ministries: Alternative to insurance (religious-based)