CheapestHealth InsuranceFloridaCheapest Health Insurance in Florida (2024 Plans)
Compare Rates and Save on Car Insurance
By , Content Director
Updated: Dec 1, 2023
Choosing a different metal tier affects health insurance premiums and costs. In Florida, AmeriHealth offers the most affordable Bronze plan, Oscar is the cheapest for Expanded Bronze and Florida Health Care Plans provides the most reasonable Platinum plan. Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. is the least expensive for Gold, Silver and Catastrophic.
If you are looking to balance monthly premiums with quality claims and coverage, MoneyGeek also analyzed the best health insurance in Florida.
CheapestHealth InsuranceFloridaMost Affordable Health Insurance in Florida
Cheapest Silver Plan - Health First Commercial Plans, Inc
Cheapest Gold Plan - Health First Commercial Plans, Inc
Cheapest Bronze Plan - AmeriHealth
Cheapest Expanded Bronze Plan - Oscar
Cheapest Catastrophic Plan - Health First Commercial Plans, Inc
Cheapest Platinum Plan - Florida Health Care Plans
Cheapest Health Insurance in Florida by Metal Tier
The most affordable Silver plan in Florida is the Silver Value 1815 offered by Health First Commercial Plans, Inc., a popular choice due to its balance of cost and coverage, with a monthly premium of $460. Silver plans are the most common due to their moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs. For those seeking lower monthly rates at the expense of higher out-of-pocket costs, Bronze plans may be a suitable option.
Health plan costs are influenced by their associated metal tier; higher monthly premiums generally correspond with lower out-of-pocket costs and deductibles.
Here are the most affordable health insurance plans from each metal tier:
- Catastrophic: Catastrophic Gym Access 1746 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($199) — Only available to individuals under 30 or with a qualifying hardship or affordability exemption.
- Expanded Bronze: Bronze Classic from Oscar ($376)
- Bronze: AmeriHealth Caritas Next Bronze Classic + $0 Virtual Care 24/7 + $0 Preventive Care + No-Referrals from AmeriHealth ($410)
- Silver: Silver Value 1815 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($460)
- Gold: Gold Value 1819 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($464)
- Platinum: Gym Access IND Platinum POS BC 5841 from Florida Health Care Plans ($742)
For more details on finding cheap health insurance plans tailored to your needs and budget, additional resources are available.
WHAT ARE METAL TIERS?
In the Florida health insurance marketplace, consumers can choose from various metal tiers, including Bronze, Silver, Gold and Catastrophic plans, each representing a different level of cost-sharing between the insurer and the insured.
Bronze plans offer lower monthly premiums but higher out-of-pocket expenses, while Gold plans have higher rates but substantially lower out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for those with frequent health care needs. Individuals earning below 250% of the Federal Poverty Line qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) with Silver plans, reducing deductibles, copayments and co-insurance costs. This assistance enhances the plan's value without the higher premiums associated with Gold plans, making it an appealing choice for eligible individuals.
Cheapest Silver Plans in Florida
The most cost-effective Silver tier plan in Florida is the Silver Value 1815 offered by Health First Commercial Plans, Inc., which comes with a monthly premium of $460.
Florida's top three most affordable Silver health plans are:
- Silver Value 1815 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($460)
- Silver 9 from Molina ($491)
- myBlue Connected Care Silver 24M03-70 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($495)
Silver plans are ideal for consumers who want a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs when seeking health care services. Customers with lower income may qualify for cost-sharing reductions, which could significantly lower the amount they pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance. These reductions make Silver plans a brilliant choice for those who expect to use a moderate amount of health care services and want to keep expenses predictable.
Cheapest Gold Plans in Florida
The most affordable Gold plan in Florida is the Gold Value 1819 offered by Health First Commercial Plans, Inc., with a monthly cost of $464.
The three most affordable Gold health insurance plans in Florida are:
- Gold Value 1819 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($464)
- Standard Gold VALUE from Ambetter ($487)
- Standard Gold SELECT from Ambetter ($500)
Gold plans are best if you anticipate regular medical expenses and want comprehensive coverage. These plans offer lower out-of-pocket costs in exchange for higher monthly premiums.
Cheapest Bronze Plans in Florida
The most cost-effective Bronze health plan in Florida is the AmeriHealth Caritas Next Bronze Classic + $0 Virtual Care 24/7 + $0 Preventive Care + No-Referrals from AmeriHealth, offered at a monthly cost of $410.
The three cheapest Bronze plans in Florida are:
- AmeriHealth Caritas Next Bronze Classic + $0 Virtual Care 24/7 + $0 Preventive Care + No-Referrals from AmeriHealth ($410)
- UHC Bronze Essential from UnitedHealthcare ($459)
- BlueSelect Bronze 24L01-01 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($467)
Bronze plans are well-suited for individuals who want lower monthly premiums and can handle higher out-of-pocket expenses in case they require medical care. They are ideal for those who do not expect to need frequent health care services but want to have coverage for significant medical events. These plans generally offer essential health benefits and are a good choice for those seeking basic coverage without high monthly costs.
Cheapest Expanded Bronze Plans in Florida
The most affordable Expanded Bronze plan in Florida is the Bronze Classic offered by Oscar, with a monthly premium of $376.
The three cheapest Expanded Bronze health insurance plans in Florida are:
- Bronze Classic from Oscar ($376)
- Bronze Value 1814 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($380)
- Bronze Savings 1820 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($408)
Expanded Bronze plans offer moderate premiums for those who expect average medical expenses. They're a middle-ground option for those who find standard Bronze plans too limiting.
Cheapest Catastrophic Plans in Florida
The Catastrophic Gym Access 1746 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. is the most affordable Catastrophic tier plan available to Florida residents, with a monthly cost of $199.
The three least expensive Catastrophic plans available in Florida are:
- Catastrophic Gym Access 1746 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($199)
- Gym Access IND Essential Plus Catastrophic HMO 36 from Florida Health Care Plans ($247)
- Secure from Oscar ($258)
Designed for adults under 30 or those with a hardship exemption, Catastrophic plans offer low premiums alongside high out-of-pocket costs. These plans suit individuals seeking to minimize monthly expenses while securing a safety net for major medical events. However, they are not recommended for those anticipating regular medical visits or requiring frequent prescriptions.
Cheapest Platinum Plans in Florida
The most affordable Platinum-tier health insurance plan in Florida is the Gym Access IND Platinum POS BC 5841 offered by Florida Health Care Plans at a monthly cost of $742.
The cheapest Platinum plans offered in Florida are:
- Gym Access IND Platinum POS BC 5841 from Florida Health Care Plans ($742)
- Gym Access IND Essential Plus Platinum POS 65 from Florida Health Care Plans ($759)
- Gym Access IND Platinum POS 4000 from Florida Health Care Plans ($760)
Platinum plans are ideal for consumers who expect to require frequent medical care as they offer the lowest out-of-pocket costs in exchange for higher monthly premiums. They are suited for those willing to pay more per month to have fewer expenses when receiving medical treatment. These plans typically benefit customers with ongoing health issues or predict high medical costs in the upcoming year.
Cheapest Health Insurance in Florida for Those With Low Income
In Florida, individuals who earn 250% below the Federal Poverty Level qualify for cost-sharing reductions on Silver plans, significantly reducing deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses.
The most affordable Silver plan for individuals earning between $14,580 and $21,870 per year is the Silver Value 1815 plan from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc., with a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $800.
The two cheapest Silver plans with their respective costs are:
- Silver Value 1815 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. (Monthly Cost: $460, Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $800)
- Silver 9 from Molina (Monthly Cost: $491, Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $1,625)
In Florida, cost-sharing reductions are available only with Silver plans. The annual income thresholds apply to single individuals and vary for larger households.
WHAT IS A COST-SHARING REDUCTION?
Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are discounts that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance on Silver plans. To qualify, your income must be between 100% and 250% of the federal poverty level. CSR variations adjust plan expenses.
For example, with the Silver Value 1815 plan from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc., an enrollee eligible for a 94% actuarial value (AV) level CSR has a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $800, whereas another at a 73% AV Level has a higher maximum at $6,800.
Cheapest Health Insurance in Florida by Plan Type
In Florida, the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan type is the favorite among health insurance shoppers. The most affordable HMO plan available is the Silver Value 1815 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. at $460 per month.
- HMO: Silver Value 1815 from Health First Commercial Plans, Inc. ($460)
- EPO: Silver Elite Saver Plus from Oscar ($507)
- POS: Gym Access IND Silver POS OA Standard 1440 from Florida Health Care Plans ($550)
- PPO: BlueOptions Silver 24J01-03 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($929)
While HMO plans are the most popular in Florida, consumers can also select from EPO, POS and PPO plans. These alternatives boast distinctive advantages, such as the flexibility inherent in EPO plans, which often eliminate the need for referrals to see specialists. PPO plans, on the other hand, typically provide expansive networks and the flexibility to consult with providers outside of the network. POS plans, functioning as a hybrid, combine features from both HMO and PPO plans.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLAN TYPES?
Here are the differences between each plan type:
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
- Pros: HMO plans typically have lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. They also encourage members to use a primary care provider to coordinate care, which can lead to improved overall health management.
- Cons: The network of providers is usually limited, and going outside the network for care can result in higher costs. Additionally, a referral is often required to see a specialist, which can be inconvenient.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)
- Pros: EPO plans offer a moderate level of freedom to choose health care providers within a network without requiring referrals for specialists. These plans sometimes provide a balance between cost and flexibility.
- Cons: Going outside the network for care is generally only covered for emergencies, which means that patients have fewer choices and must be careful to stay within the network.
Point-of-Service (POS)
- Pros: POS plans provide a mix of HMO and PPO features, allowing members to pay less if they use doctors, hospitals and other health care providers in the plan's network. Out-of-network care is available but will cost more.
- Cons: These plans often require a referral from a primary care doctor to see a specialist. Out-of-pocket costs can be higher if you frequently use out-of-network providers.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
- Pros: PPO plans provide greater flexibility when selecting health care providers. You don't need referrals to see specialists; you can use providers outside of your network, although at a higher cost.
- Cons: PPOs tend to have higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs compared to HMOs. Without the need for a primary care physician to coordinate care, you may have to manage your own health care more actively.
Cheapest Health Insurance in Florida by County
Health insurance rates and availability of certain plans vary by county in Florida.
Comparing the most affordable plans in the largest and smallest counties by population shows this variation:
- Miami-Dade: myBlue Connected Care Silver 24M03-70 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($485)
- Liberty: myBlue Silver 24M06-76 from Blue Cross Blue Shield ($510)
The following table displays all available plans in each county in Florida.
Health Insurance Costs in Florida by Age and Metal Tier
Age affects health insurance prices in Florida. For instance, an 18-year-old with a Silver plan pays $503 each month, while a 60-year-old pays $1,495 for the same type of plan. That's a $992 difference.
Metal tiers show how much coverage a plan gives and how much it costs. A 40-year-old with a Bronze plan pays $520 a month, but if they chose a Gold plan, the cost would be $770. That means the Gold plan costs $250 more each month than the Bronze plan.
What to Know About Health Insurance in Florida
MoneyGeek analyzed all the health insurance options in Florida. We explain private insurance in the marketplace and what the different metal tiers represent. We also cover government programs like Medicaid and Medicare. We do this to help you better understand your choices so you can pick the right health care plan.
Private Health Insurance in the Florida Marketplace
The open enrollment period for health insurance in Florida typically runs from November 1 to December 15 each year. During this time, residents can shop for private health insurance coverage on the federal Health Insurance Marketplace, comparing plans and selecting one that fits their needs. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until the next open enrollment unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by certain life events, such as marriage, childbirth or loss of other coverage, and they allow you to enroll outside of the standard open enrollment period.
Medicaid in Florida
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program providing health care coverage to low-income individuals and families. In Florida, eligibility is based on income, family size, disability, pregnancy and age. Children, pregnant women, parents with dependent children, seniors and individuals with disabilities may qualify if they meet the program's financial requirements. Each state sets its own guidelines within federal parameters, so Florida's Agency for Health Care Administration oversees the specifics of eligibility and enrollment within the state. Regular reviews ensure recipients continue to meet Medicaid's eligibility criteria.
Medicare in Florida
Medicare is a federal health care program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, though it is also available to younger people with certain disabilities or medical conditions, such as end-stage renal disease, irrespective of income. In Florida, eligibility aligns with these federal guidelines. Medicare consists of several parts: Part A covers hospital insurance, which includes inpatient care, skilled nursing facility care and some home health care services. Part B covers medical insurance for doctor visits, outpatient care and preventive services. Part C, known as Medicare Advantage, offers alternative ways to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance plans. Part D provides prescription drug coverage, helping to lower the costs of medications.
MoneyGeek also evaluated and listed the best Medicare Advantage Plans in Florida and the best Medicare Supplement plans in Florida.
Expert Advice: Finding Affordable Health Insurance in Florida
- When can I shop for health insurance on the Florida health insurance exchange?
- How do I take advantage of cost-sharing reductions and tax credits for health insurance in Florida?
Patricia Born
Professor at Florida State University
FAQ About the Most Affordable Florida Health Insurance
When looking for health insurance, you may have questions about cost and availability. MoneyGeek responded to frequently asked questions about cheap private health insurance in Florida to help you learn more.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
sources
- HealthCare.gov. "Federal Poverty Level (FPL)." Accessed December 1, 2023.
- HealthCare.gov. "How to Pick a Health Insurance Plan." Accessed December 1, 2023.
- HealthCare.gov. "Special Enrollment Period (SEP)." Accessed December 1, 2023.