Best health insurance in United States in 2025
- Very comprehensive preventative coverage
- Very high dental coverage limit
- Large and dense network
- Excellent for chronic medications
- Very comprehensive preventative coverage
- Very high dental coverage limit
- Large and dense network
- Excellent for chronic medications
UnitedHealth Group offers one of the most comprehensive health insurance plans on the U.S. market, with a high coverage level across preventive care, hospitalization, dental, and medications. The plan notably covers preventive care at 100% and includes generous dental benefits up to $3,000 annually. Prescription drugs are particularly well handled with low-cost insulin options, and hospitalization in-network is fully covered after deductible. Service levels are excellent, with broad network access nationwide and a strong emphasis on telehealth services. However, premium pricing may be higher than the average, which reflects the overall depth and breadth of coverage.
Ideal for professionals, families, or individuals with chronic conditions looking for the highest level of comprehensive coverage without worrying about unexpected healthcare costs.
For all these reasons, we recommend UnitedHealth Group’s health insurance.
- Exceptional preventive care coverage
- High dental reimbursement ceiling
- Strong prescription drug benefits
- Broad range of telehealth services
- Premium pricing above market average
- Less competitive for minimal needs coverage
- Very good integrated hospital management
- Generally competitive premiums
- Excellent preventative services
- Ideal for families
- Out-of-network limitations
- Very good integrated hospital management
- Generally competitive premiums
- Excellent preventative services
- Ideal for families
Kaiser Permanente provides a robust and affordable health insurance plan known for its integrated care model, where doctors, labs, pharmacies, and hospitals are part of the same system. It covers preventive care at 100% with low copayments for primary care and specialist visits ($15). The hospitalization co-insurance is set at 30%, which remains competitive. Dental coverage includes an annual limit of $1,250, primarily for children. Vision and maternity care are well supported. Services outside of Kaiser’s network can be limited, making it less ideal for frequent travelers or those outside serviced areas.
Best suited for families, retirees, or individuals living in regions heavily served by Kaiser facilities seeking efficient, centralized care.
For all these reasons, we recommend Kaiser Permanente’s health insurance.
- Integrated healthcare system with coordinated services
- Affordable copays for primary and specialist care
- Strong focus on preventive services
- Good maternity and pediatric dental benefits
- Limited out-of-network coverage
- Availability restricted to specific geographic areas
- Good balance of costs/coverage
- Wide selection of specialists
- Solid prescription drug coverage
- Strong national network
- Limits on alternative care
- Good balance of costs/coverage
- Wide selection of specialists
- Solid prescription drug coverage
- Strong national network
Cigna offers a well-balanced plan with competitive benefits across dental, vision, medications, and hospitalization. Dental care is covered up to $1,500 annually, and vision coverage includes $130 for frames. Primary care visits require a $25 copay, while specialist visits are $75. The plan features strong prescription drug coverage with an annual out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 starting in 2025. While alternative treatments coverage is less prominent, Cigna’s broad national network and focus on digital services make it a solid and flexible option.
Perfect for active workers, families, and those who value a national network and strong prescription benefits.
For all these reasons, we recommend Cigna’s health insurance.
- Balanced coverage across dental, vision, and medications
- Nationwide access to providers
- Affordable outpatient visit copays
- Strong prescription drug protection
- Limited alternative therapies covered
- Additional riders needed for optimal vision or dental expansion
- Strong preventative focus
- Extensive maternity programs
- Good accessibility to vision care
- High-performing digital support
- Less comprehensive for hospitalization
- Strong preventative focus
- Extensive maternity programs
- Good accessibility to vision care
- High-performing digital support
Elevance Health delivers a plan heavily oriented toward preventive care and family support. Dental coverage can go up to $2,500 annually, with orthodontic options for children. Prescription drugs are covered with an annual cap of $2,000. Hospitalization specifics are less detailed, but vision care for children is well included. Telehealth and preventive initiatives are among the most developed in the market, helping patients easily access early medical advice.
Ideal for families and individuals focused on preventive care and digital health support services.
For all these reasons, we recommend Elevance Health’s health insurance.
- High preventive care and telemedicine integration
- Strong dental benefits for families
- Affordable medication cost capping
- Well-developed maternity programs
- Hospitalization coverage details less clear
- Specialist care cost management could be improved
- Excellent generic drug coverage
- Competitive rates on outpatient care
- Dense and accessible CVS network
- Attractive OTC options
- High hospital costs
- Excellent generic drug coverage
- Competitive rates on outpatient care
- Dense and accessible CVS network
- Attractive OTC options
CVS Health via Aetna proposes an attractive plan, especially strong in prescription drug affordability, with many generics available for $3. Dental coverage can reach $2,500 annually, and vision services are included with annual exams and $130 frame allowance. Copayments for primary and specialist visits are relatively low, although hospitalization remains costly with a 40% co-insurance. CVS’s massive pharmacy network provides an additional layer of convenience for users.
Great for active individuals, students, and small families who value pharmacy proximity and affordable drug access.
For all these reasons, we recommend CVS Health’s health insurance.
- Excellent generic prescription drug prices
- Dense CVS pharmacy network
- Competitive outpatient services cost
- Telehealth included for remote access
- High hospital co-insurance rate
- Some procedures require strict in-network compliance
- Well-regarded wellness programs
- Premium often accessible
- Solid optical coverage for children
- Comprehensive vaccine coverage
- Limited hospital reimbursements
- Well-regarded wellness programs
- Premium often accessible
- Solid optical coverage for children
- Comprehensive vaccine coverage
Humana focuses on providing affordable health insurance with comprehensive wellness programs. It includes dental services with a $1,000 annual limit and moderate copays for consultations ($60). Prescription drugs have a $2,000 out-of-pocket ceiling. Vision services cover both children and adults adequately. Hospital services require a 50% co-insurance, which can be costly in case of long stays. Humana’s strong point is its wellness initiatives, designed to encourage a healthier lifestyle among members.
Best for seniors, wellness-focused individuals, and small families seeking a balance between cost and preventive benefits.
For all these reasons, we recommend Humana’s health insurance.
- Accessible pricing and good preventive incentives
- Vision coverage for all ages
- Comprehensive vaccination programs
- Good drug cost control
- High hospitalization co-insurance
- Basic dental coverage cap lower than competitors
- Innovative digital process
- Good for preventative care
- Low coverage for adult dental care
- Ideal for tech-friendly users
- Limited network options
- Innovative digital process
- Good for preventative care
- Low coverage for adult dental care
- Ideal for tech-friendly users
Oscar Health stands out for its fully digital-first experience, offering a modern insurance plan targeting tech-savvy users. Three primary care visits per year are free, and most services have a $0 copayment after meeting the deductible. Prescription drugs are also available at $0 after the deductible, and certain preventive medications are available for $3 monthly. However, adult dental and vision are limited, and the provider network is narrower than traditional insurers.
Ideal for young, tech-oriented individuals in urban areas who prefer managing their health coverage online.
For all these reasons, we recommend Oscar Health’s health insurance.
- Strong digital platform and telemedicine
- Free initial primary care visits
- Very competitive drug pricing
- Streamlined user experience
- Limited network compared to larger insurers
- No routine dental or vision benefits for adults
- Good pediatric care
- Teleconsultations available
- Available on Marketplace plans
- High hospital costs
- Limited adult dental options
- Good pediatric care
- Teleconsultations available
- Available on Marketplace plans
Centene’s Ambetter brand provides accessible health insurance primarily focused on Marketplace participants. It offers dental care up to $1,000 annually, copayments for consultations remain moderate, and pediatric vision services are included. Hospital care carries a 50% co-insurance, making it less ideal for high hospital usage. Telehealth services are included, and overall, it maintains affordability but sacrifices some depth in coverage for adults.
Well-suited for young families and individuals seeking an affordable Marketplace option with pediatric coverage.
For all these reasons, we recommend Centene Corporation (Ambetter)’s health insurance.
- Pediatric dental and vision included
- Affordable outpatient visits
- Telehealth services accessible
- Good Marketplace availability
- Expensive hospitalization costs
- Limited adult dental and vision options
- Available in several states
- Strong on prevention
- Good localized value
- Variable hospital network
- May lack flexibility out-of-network
- Available in several states
- Strong on prevention
- Good localized value
HCSC, operating under various Blue Cross Blue Shield brands, provides solid traditional health insurance with strong preventive care and local networks. Dental coverage reaches up to $1,500 annually, and vision services are well supported. Hospitalization costs are moderate with 20-30% co-insurance. However, the network’s efficiency can vary across states, and the flexibility of services outside preferred providers may be limited.
Good choice for residents of Illinois, Texas, Montana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma seeking strong local health network support.
For all these reasons, we recommend Health Care Service Corporation’s health insurance.
- Broad preventive care services
- Solid dental and vision benefits
- Balanced drug coverage
- Reliable regional network access
- Out-of-network flexibility limited
- Hospitalization costs depend on state contracts
- Very accessible price point
- Good for Medicaid/Marketplace populations
- Well-regarded children's vision services
- Possible hospital limitations
- Weak on adult options
- Very accessible price point
- Good for Medicaid/Marketplace populations
- Well-regarded children's vision services
Molina Healthcare mainly targets low-income populations and those eligible for Medicaid and Marketplace assistance. It provides dental services for up to $1,500 annually, excellent coverage for pediatric vision and dental care, and offers 0$ copayments for most primary and specialist consultations. Hospital stays are also covered at 0$ cost. However, authorization requirements are frequent, and adult coverage options are notably limited compared to mainstream insurers.
Best suited for individuals and families qualifying for Medicaid expansion plans or low-income Marketplace tiers.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend Molina Healthcare’s health insurance.
- Extremely affordable for basic needs
- Good coverage for children’s dental and vision
- No-cost primary and specialist consultations
- Broad Medicaid and Marketplace availability
- Frequent prior authorizations required
- Limited adult coverage for dental and alternative therapies
- How does health insurance work in the United States?
- What does health insurance cover?
- What does health insurance NOT cover?
- The cost of health insurance in the United States
- The best health insurance for your profile
- How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
- FAQ
Did you know that a three-day hospital stay in the US can cost over $30,000 even before factoring in surgery or specialist fees, and many plans have deductibles above $1,700 per year?
Millions of Americans face gaps in coverage for prescription drugs, mental health, or out-of-network providers, especially those relying only on Medicare, Medicaid, or marketplace plans. Public programs like Medicare and Medicaid offer essential protection, but do not cover many needs, and private market policies vary widely in costs and networks—so it is critical to compare each plan’s coverage limits, provider networks, and out-of-pocket expenses.
With healthcare costs rising faster than wages, taking time to compare and select the right health insurance policy can safeguard your finances and ensure better access to care when you need it most.
HelloSafe’s team of independent experts continuously monitors the US health insurance market, delivering detailed comparisons and up-to-date guidance so you can make the most informed decision for your coverage and your wallet.
How does health insurance work in the United States?
The US public healthcare programs, Medicare and Medicaid, offer essential protection for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income individuals, but do not cover every medical need or provide access to all providers.
Private health insurance stands apart by offering broader networks, higher reimbursement levels, faster care, and access to a wide range of specialists and treatments that the public system may not cover or may involve long waiting times.
Private plans also allow for greater flexibility, more choice in providers, and options for international coverage—valuable for those who travel or require out-of-network services.
For anyone seeking comprehensive benefits, financial protection, and prompt access to quality care, private health insurance is a crucial consideration beyond what public coverage alone can provide.
What does health insurance cover?
Basic health insurance coverage in the US typically includes essential services such as general medical care, specialist visits, hospitalisation, emergency services, prescription drugs, and preventive care.
Optional extras—such as dental, optical, maternity services, alternative medicine, and enhanced mental health or international coverage—are often available through premium plans or add-ons, expanding the range of benefits beyond the basics.
The reimbursement principle means you are generally covered for a percentage of medical costs after meeting your deductible; there are also copayments, coinsurance, and sometimes waiting periods for certain treatments or services.
Unlike many other countries with comprehensive public health systems, the US relies primarily on private health insurance, with public coverage like Medicare and Medicaid serving specific populations and covering only certain expenses at varying rates.
As a result, private plans fill in important coverage gaps and offer greater control and flexibility compared to the limitations of public programs.
| Type of cover | Reimbursement by Medicare/Medicaid | Coverage with basic private insurance | Coverage with premium private insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💊 General care | 80% (Medicare Part B, after deductible) | Yes (70-100% after deductible/coinsurance) | Yes (Higher rates, often 100% after deductible) |
| 🏥 Hospitalisation | 100% for limited days (Medicare Part A) | Yes (subject to plan and deductible) | Yes (Better room choice, fewer limits) |
| 🦷 Dental | Not covered (routine) | Optional/No | Optional/Yes (often with maximum annual limits) |
| 👓 Optical | Not covered (routine) | Optional/No | Optional/Yes (varies; covers exams, glasses, lenses) |
| 🤰 Maternity | Limited (Medicaid only) | Optional/Yes (ACA essential benefit) | Yes (wider hospital & doctor choice) |
| 🌿 Alternative medicine | Not covered | Optional/No | Optional/Yes (often capped) |
| 🛡️ Preventive care | 100% (most basic services) | Yes (many services covered 100%) | Yes (full coverage, + more screenings) |
| 🧠 Psychological care | 60-80% (varies, limited providers) | Partially/Yes | Yes (wider network, higher limits) |
| 🦻 Hearing aids | Not covered (Medicare) | Optional/No | Optional/Yes (annual limits apply) |
| ♨️ Thermal spa treatments | Not covered | No | No/Occasionally (very rare in US plans) |
| 🦽 Medical equipment and devices | 80% (Medicare Part B approved items) | Yes (for medically necessary devices) | Yes (better limits, more devices covered) |
| ✨ Non-covered alternative treatments | Not covered | No | Optional/No (if specified in rider) |
| ✈️ Medical assistance abroad | Not covered | No | Optional/Yes (often included in premium plans) |
| 💻 Teleconsultation | Limited (during pandemic, varies now) | Yes | Yes |
What does health insurance NOT cover?
Most health insurance plans in the US commonly exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions during initial enrollment periods, although protections have improved under the Affordable Care Act.
Cosmetic or elective procedures, such as plastic surgery that is not medically necessary, are usually not covered by standard health insurance policies.
Experimental treatments, investigational drugs, and procedures not approved by recognized authorities often fall outside standard coverage and are excluded in most plans.
Other common exclusions include alternative treatments, long-term custodial care, services obtained outside approved networks, and care received outside of the US in certain cases.
Waiting periods and coverage limits may also apply for specific benefits, meaning that some services are only covered after a defined time or up to a maximum dollar amount per year.
| Exclusion type | Example | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Pre-existing condition, cosmetic surgery, infertility treatment | ACA Marketplace insurers can’t deny or exclude for pre-existing conditions, but others may |
| Experimental | Unapproved therapy, clinical trial drugs, alternative medicine | Most plans exclude drugs or procedures not FDA-approved or not considered standard of care |
| Administrative | Out-of-network care, non-emergency care abroad, late payments | Using non-contracted providers can lead to denial; unpaid or late premiums may terminate cover |
| Coverage limitations | Annual/lifetime maximums, waiting periods, sub-limits | Some benefits (e.g. dental, vision) have annual caps or waiting periods before reimbursement |
| Legal | Illegal acts, self-inflicted injury, war-related injuries | Injuries from unlawful activity or war are universally excluded by US health insurance |
The cost of health insurance in the United States
The price of health insurance in the US is affected by several factors.
Age plays a significant role: premiums are much lower for younger individuals and increase steadily as a person gets older.
Medical history and current health status can influence pricing, especially for supplemental plans or if applying for coverage outside open enrollment periods.
The level of cover (basic vs. premium), the amount of deductible chosen (a higher deductible usually means a lower premium), and whether you opt for individual or family coverage all impact the monthly premium.
Premiums typically rise as a person ages, after health changes or significant claims, and when choosing more comprehensive (premium) coverage.
Other factors such as geographic region, tobacco use, and the number of people covered on the policy can also increase the monthly cost.
| Age group | Cover type | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 years | Basic | $285 | $435 |
| 25 years | Premium | $380 | $575 |
| 45 years | Basic | $410 | $635 |
| 45 years | Premium | $570 | $870 |
| 65 years | Basic | $660 | $920 |
| 65 years | Premium | $820 | $1,210 |
The best health insurance for your profile
Best health insurance for hospital cover
UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus is highly recommended for strong hospital coverage, providing widespread access to an extensive national network of hospitals and specialists. This PPO plan includes comprehensive coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, emergency services, and post-discharge care, making it a robust option for those prioritizing hospital protection and choice.
Best health insurance for families
Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Advantage Bronze plan is an excellent fit for families, offering affordable deductibles, a broad network for pediatric and specialist care, and extensive coverage for preventive services and child wellness visits. BCBS nationwide network also eases coordination of care for family members residing in different states.
Best health insurance for small budget
Ambetter Essential Care 1, widely available on state exchanges, is a popular low-premium plan suitable for budget-conscious individuals. It covers all essential health benefits required by the ACA, includes telehealth visits, and offers cost waivers for preventive care, making it a solid entry-level choice.
Best health insurance for expats or international
Cigna Global Medical Insurance provides US residents travelling or living abroad with worldwide hospital, outpatient, and evacuation coverage. Cigna’s international plans are customizable and highly rated for customer service, making them ideal for US expats and those needing multinational medical care.
Best health insurance for seniors
Humana Medicare Advantage Gold Plus HMO offers comprehensive coverage for adults over 65, with prescription drug, dental, vision, and hearing benefits in addition to traditional Medicare hospital and outpatient coverage. Humana’s plans are valued for their health and wellness extras, coordination of complex care, and competitive out-of-pocket limits.
Best health insurance for customisable plans
Aetna CVS Health Marketplace Silver Plan allows for add-ons such as enhanced prescription drug coverage, dental/vision, and increased telehealth options. Its modular design is ideal for individuals seeking flexibility to tailor coverage and costs for their unique healthcare needs.
Best health insurance for students
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources is tailored for university students, featuring national provider access, mental health services, and affordable coverage for both primary and emergency care on and off campus. The plan is trusted by many universities and provides seamless coordination with student health centers.
Best health insurance for self-employed
Oscar Health Simple Bronze is a top choice for the self-employed owing to its competitive rates, user-friendly digital experience, and free 24/7 telemedicine. Oscar plans cover ACA essential benefits, provide direct care navigation, and help minimize both premium and out-of-pocket costs for freelancers and entrepreneurs.
How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe comparison tool at the top of the page to easily identify the cheapest coverage that fits your needs. |
| Increase your deductible | Raising your plan’s deductible can significantly lower your monthly health insurance premium if you don’t expect frequent care. |
| Choose an HMO plan | Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans usually have lower premiums than PPOs, provided you are comfortable with in-network care. |
| Remove unnecessary add-ons | Dropping vision, dental, or supplemental coverages you do not need can reduce your total monthly premium. |
| Use a Health Savings Account (HSA) | Enroll in a high-deductible health plan and contribute to an HSA to reduce both your taxes and your out-of-pocket medical costs. |
| Check for premium subsidies | Depending on your household income, you may qualify for ACA Marketplace tax credits and cost-sharing reductions that lower your premium. |
| Pay annually if allowed | Some insurers offer a small discount if you pay your premium annually instead of monthly. |
| Join a group or professional association | Group health plans, often available through membership organizations, can offer lower premiums than individual coverage. |
FAQ
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace and how do I use it?
The Health Insurance Marketplace, run by the federal government at HealthCare.gov, is an online platform where you can compare, shop for, and enroll in ACA-compliant health insurance plans. You can see available options in your state, check eligibility for subsidies, and complete your enrollment each year during open enrollment or a special qualifying event.
Am I required to have health insurance in the United States?
As of 2019, there is no federal penalty for not having health insurance, but some states have their own coverage mandates or penalties. While it is not legally required in every state, going uninsured may expose you to significant financial risk if you need medical care.
What government programs are available for low-income individuals?
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides health insurance for low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Eligibility and benefits vary by state, but you can apply at any time throughout the year and coverage will often be retroactively applied to recent medical expenses.
How does a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) work?
A high-deductible health plan typically offers lower monthly premiums in exchange for higher out-of-pocket costs before your insurance starts to pay. These plans are also HSA-eligible, allowing you to save on a tax-advantaged basis for qualified health expenses. They are best suited for people who do not expect frequent medical care.
How can I find out if my doctor is in-network?
Before enrolling in a plan, check the health insurer’s online provider directory or call the company to see if your preferred doctors, clinics, and hospitals are in-network. Out-of-network care is usually much more expensive, so confirm your providers' participation to avoid unexpected bills.
Can I keep my health insurance if I lose or change my job?
You may be able to continue your previous employer’s health insurance coverage temporarily through COBRA, but you will likely pay the full cost yourself. Alternatively, you can shop for individual coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace or enroll in Medicaid if you meet eligibility.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by all plans?
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, all ACA-compliant plans must cover pre-existing conditions. Insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history, making it easier for those with chronic illnesses to secure needed coverage.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace and how do I use it?
The Health Insurance Marketplace, run by the federal government at HealthCare.gov, is an online platform where you can compare, shop for, and enroll in ACA-compliant health insurance plans. You can see available options in your state, check eligibility for subsidies, and complete your enrollment each year during open enrollment or a special qualifying event.
Am I required to have health insurance in the United States?
As of 2019, there is no federal penalty for not having health insurance, but some states have their own coverage mandates or penalties. While it is not legally required in every state, going uninsured may expose you to significant financial risk if you need medical care.
What government programs are available for low-income individuals?
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides health insurance for low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Eligibility and benefits vary by state, but you can apply at any time throughout the year and coverage will often be retroactively applied to recent medical expenses.
How does a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) work?
A high-deductible health plan typically offers lower monthly premiums in exchange for higher out-of-pocket costs before your insurance starts to pay. These plans are also HSA-eligible, allowing you to save on a tax-advantaged basis for qualified health expenses. They are best suited for people who do not expect frequent medical care.
How can I find out if my doctor is in-network?
Before enrolling in a plan, check the health insurer’s online provider directory or call the company to see if your preferred doctors, clinics, and hospitals are in-network. Out-of-network care is usually much more expensive, so confirm your providers' participation to avoid unexpected bills.
Can I keep my health insurance if I lose or change my job?
You may be able to continue your previous employer’s health insurance coverage temporarily through COBRA, but you will likely pay the full cost yourself. Alternatively, you can shop for individual coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace or enroll in Medicaid if you meet eligibility.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by all plans?
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, all ACA-compliant plans must cover pre-existing conditions. Insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history, making it easier for those with chronic illnesses to secure needed coverage.
