Updated: May 22, 2024
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Health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs vary with metal tiers. In Louisiana, Blue Cross Blue Shield offers the most affordable Bronze, Expanded Bronze, Silver and Gold plans.
If you are looking to balance monthly premiums with quality claims and coverage, the best health insurance in Louisiana has been thoroughly assessed by MoneyGeek.
CheapestHealth InsuranceLouisianaMost Affordable Health Insurance in Louisiana
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We downloaded plan data for Louisiana directly from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Plan data was updated with the CMS exchange data released in October, the latest available data for the 2024 enrollment period.
The most cost-effective plan in Louisiana's Silver tier is offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield and is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400, with a monthly cost of $504. The Silver plan is the most common choice due to its balance of monthly premiums and coverage. For those willing to trade lower monthly premiums for higher out-of-pocket costs, Bronze plans are available. Health insurance costs are dependent on the metal tier, where generally, higher premiums correspond to lower out-of-pocket expenses and deductibles.
Here are the most affordable health insurance plans from each metal tier:
For more information on cheap health insurance, you can explore various options that suit your needs and budget.
| Expanded Bronze | PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550 | CompanyBlue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$407 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 |
| Bronze | PlanBlue POS 60/40 $6500 | CompanyBlue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$457 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 |
| Silver | PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400 | CompanyBlue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$504 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900 |
| Gold | PlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 | CompanyBlue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$579 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 |
In the Louisiana health insurance marketplace, consumers have a choice of metal tiers, including Bronze, Expanded Bronze, Silver and Gold plans. Each tier offers a different balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses when care is needed.
Bronze plans typically have the lowest monthly premiums but highest out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. For example, a 40-year-old could pay about $457 a month for a Bronze plan with a maximum out-of-pocket limit of $9,450. Conversely, Gold plans charge higher monthly premiums — in this case, around $579 — but come with much lower out-of-pocket expenses, illustrated by a $1,000 copay and the same out-of-pocket limit as the Bronze option.
Silver plans provide a middle ground with moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs. They are particularly important for individuals below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, as they are eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs). CSRs lower the amount one has to pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance, making health care more affordable without escalating premiums. A Silver plan might cost roughly $504 monthly, with a maximum out-of-pocket cost that could be as low as $7,900, but CSRs can further reduce these out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals, providing a balance of premium affordability and reduced charges at the point of care.
The most affordable Silver plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, costing only $504 per month.
Here are the three most cost-effective Silver plans available in the state:
Silver plans are well-suited for individuals or families who expect moderate health care usage and desire a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Customers who qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) can significantly reduce their deductibles, copayments and co-insurance, leading to substantial savings on health care services. These CSRs make Silver plans particularly attractive for those with lower incomes who still want comprehensive coverage.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$504 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900 | PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$519 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,900 | PlanSignature Blue 80/60 $3400 |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$521 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,400 | PlanClear Silver |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$527 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanStandard Silver |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$537 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,000 | PlanFocused Silver |
The most affordable Gold tier health insurance plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 from Blue Cross Blue Shield, with a monthly cost of $579.
The three most affordable Gold plans in Louisiana are:
Gold plans offer a higher level of coverage and are ideal for customers who expect to need frequent medical care. They often come with higher premiums but significantly lower out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. These plans are especially beneficial for individuals with ongoing prescriptions or who require regular doctor's visits and want predictability in health care spending.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$579 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$596 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanSignature Blue Copay 80/60 $1000 |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$610 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700 | PlanStandard Gold |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$615 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 | PlanEveryday Gold |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$624 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanCommunity Blue Copay 80/60 $1000 |
The most affordable Bronze health plan available in Louisiana is Blue POS 60/40 $6500 by Blue Cross Blue Shield, with a monthly cost of $457.
The three most affordable Bronze plans in Louisiana include:
Bronze plans are ideal for individuals who want lower monthly premiums and are comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs in the event they need care. They are good for those who do not expect to need frequent medical care or high-cost services. Bronze plans are a cost-effective solution for healthy individuals who primarily want coverage for major medical events.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$457 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue POS 60/40 $6500 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$492 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue Max 100/100 $9450 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$508 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue Max 70/50 $6700 |
| UnitedHealthcare | Monthly Cost$514 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanUHC Bronze Essential |
The most affordable Expanded Bronze tier health plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect 70/50 $4550 offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield with a monthly cost of $407.
The top three most affordable Expanded Bronze plans in Louisiana by monthly cost are:
Expanded Bronze plans are designed for customers who want lower monthly premiums while still having coverage for a broad range of health care services. These plans tend to have higher out-of-pocket costs when health care is accessed but can be a good option for individuals who don't expect to use many medical services. They are also beneficial for those who can handle a higher financial risk in exchange for lower monthly costs.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$407 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$439 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanCommunity Blue 70/50 $4550 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$441 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanBlue Connect 70/50 $4550 |
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$441 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanCHRISTUS Bronze Basic |
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$456 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanCHRISTUS Bronze |
In Louisiana, if your annual earnings are below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you're eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) on Silver health insurance plans, making health care more affordable by reducing deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
The most affordable Silver plan for individuals earning between $14,580 and $21,870 per year is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 from Blue Cross Blue Shield at $504 monthly. It has a maximum out-of-pocket cost (MOOP) of $1,900. The following are the two most affordable Silver plans:
Cost-sharing reductions are available exclusively through Silver plans in Louisiana. The specified income range applies to single individuals and varies with household size.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$504 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900 | PlanBlue Connect 80/60 $3400 |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Monthly Cost$519 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900 | PlanSignature Blue 80/60 $3400 |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$521 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$550 | PlanClear Silver |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$527 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,900 | PlanStandard Silver |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$537 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,350 | PlanFocused Silver |
Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are discounts that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance on Silver health insurance plans for eligible individuals earning between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.
For example, under the Blue Cross Blue Shield's Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 plan, a 40-year-old with a high level of CSR (94% AV Level) would have a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $1,900. Conversely, with a lower CSR (73% AV Level), the same individual's maximum out-of-pocket expense would be $7,550, illustrating the potential for significant savings.
The most popular plan type in Louisiana is the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO).
The most affordable HMO plan in Louisiana is the CHRISTUS Standard Silver from Christus Health at $549.
In Louisiana, individuals seeking variety in health plans have the option to choose from EPO, POS and PPO plans in addition to the popular HMO plans. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans offer a balance of cost and flexibility, as they do not require referrals for specialists but limit coverage to providers in the network. Point of Service (POS) plans combine elements of HMO and PPO plans by allowing out-of-network services at a higher cost with a referral. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans provide the most flexibility, allowing policyholders to visit any health care provider, often without the need for a referral.
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$549 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver |
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$564 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,500 | PlanCHRISTUS Silver |
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$570 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanCHRISTUS Silver HD |
In Louisiana, the most common health insurance plan type is the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Other plan types available in Louisiana include Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), Point of Service (POS) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).
The differences between these plan types are as follows:
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): HMO plans often have lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs when compared to other plan types. They require you to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and get referrals to see specialists, which can help coordinate care. However, an HMO typically limits coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract with the HMO. If you see a provider outside of the network, you may have to pay the full cost, except in an emergency.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): EPO plans offer a moderate amount of freedom to choose your health care providers within a specified network, without requiring referrals for specialists. However, coverage for services received outside of the network is usually very limited or non-existent, which means higher out-of-pocket costs if you choose to go outside the network.
Point of Service (POS): POS plans provide features of both HMO and PPO plans. You typically need to select a primary care physician, but you also have the flexibility to go outside of the provider network, usually at a higher cost. However, visiting out-of-network providers may require paying more out of pocket and filling out more paperwork. Referrals are often required for specialist visits.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): PPO plans offer the most freedom to see any health care provider, with or without referrals. These plans will cover some of the costs of seeing out-of-network providers. However, PPOs usually have higher monthly premiums compared to other health insurance plans. Out-of-pocket costs can also be higher when you choose to see out-of-network providers.
When choosing a health insurance plan, it's essential to consider not only the costs but also the plan's network, coverage perks and if it fits your health care needs. Always review the summary of benefits for any plan you're considering to make an informed choice.
Health insurance rates and availability of certain plans vary by county in Louisiana, influencing the options and premiums for residents seeking coverage.
Comparing the most affordable plans in the largest and smallest counties by population shows this variation in monthly rates:
The following table outlines all available plans in each county in Louisiana.
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$503 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCHRISTUS Standard Silver |
| Christus Health | Monthly Cost$517 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,500 | PlanCHRISTUS Silver |
In Louisiana, age affects how much you pay for health insurance. For example, an 18-year-old pays $463 for a silver plan, whereas a 60-year-old pays $1,375, which is $912 more. Age makes a big difference in rates within each metal tier.
Metal tiers are categories of insurance plans that tell you how you and your plan split costs. A 40-year-old with a bronze plan pays $490, while the same person would pay $738 for a Gold plan. The Gold plan costs $248 more than the bronze plan because it covers more medical costs.
MoneyGeek broke down the health insurance options in Louisiana to give you a clear picture. We cover private insurance plans available in the marketplace, including the different metal tiers like Bronze, Silver and Gold. We also explain government programs like Medicaid and Medicare. Our goal is to help you understand your choices so you can make the best decision for your health care.
The open enrollment period in Louisiana typically aligns with the federal health insurance marketplace timeframe, running from November 1st to December 15th each year. During this period, residents can shop for private health insurance coverage on the federal exchange (HealthCare.gov), assessing different plans and selecting one that meets their needs and budget. If you miss the December 15th deadline, you may have to wait until the next open enrollment unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to life events such as marriage, having a baby, or losing other coverage, which allows you to enroll outside the standard period.
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program in the United States that provides health care coverage to millions of Americans, including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and individuals with disabilities. In Louisiana, eligibility for Medicaid is determined based on income, household size and other factors, such as disability status. Individuals and families must meet specific income requirements that are a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify. Louisiana has also expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, allowing a broader range of low-income individuals to get coverage. Applications for Medicaid can be done through the state's Department of Health.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, but it's also available to some younger individuals with specific disabilities or conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease. In Louisiana, eligibility is aligned with these federal guidelines.
There are various parts to Medicare, each covering different aspects of health care needs:
MoneyGeek found the best Medicare Advantage Plans in Louisiana and the best Medicare Supplement plans in Louisiana.
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 Louisiana to help you learn more.
The cheapest Silver plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect 80/60 $3400 by Blue Cross Blue Shield, with a monthly cost of $504. Meanwhile, the cheapest Gold plan in Louisiana is the Blue Connect Copay 80/60 $1000, also from Blue Cross Blue Shield, at $579 per month.
Although you'll pay a lower monthly premium for a cheap health insurance plan, you may pay higher out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. More expensive plans cover more comprehensive services and considerably lower your out-of-pocket maximums.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
