Updated: May 22, 2024
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Choosing a metal tier impacts your health insurance premiums and expenses. According to our research, MoneyGeek found that Anthem (BCBS) offers the most affordable plans across all tiers in New Hampshire.
If you're looking to balance monthly premiums with quality claims and coverage, MoneyGeek also analyzed the best health insurance in New Hampshire.
CheapestHealth InsuranceNew HampshireMost Affordable Health Insurance in New Hampshire
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We downloaded plan data for New Hampshire 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.
Health insurance costs are stratified by metal tier, balancing higher premiums against lower deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses.
The most cost-effective Silver plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard offered by Anthem (BCBS), costing just $324 monthly. For those willing to accept higher out-of-pocket costs for reduced monthly rates, Bronze plans are another affordable option.
Here are the most affordable health insurance plans in New Hampshire from each metal tier:
Find more options for cheap health insurance to fit your budget and needs.
| Catastrophic | PlanAnthem Catastrophic Pathway X Enhanced 9450/0% | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$221 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 |
| Bronze | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 6500/40% | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$266 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 |
| Expanded Bronze | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 7500/50% Standard | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$273 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 |
| Silver | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$324 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 |
| Gold | PlanAnthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 700/40% | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$354 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 |
| Platinum | PlanAnthem Platinum Pathway X HMO 250/10%/3000 | CompanyAnthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$590 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$3,000 |
In the New Hampshire health insurance marketplace, consumers can select from various metal tiers — Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum — which signify the insurer's share of health care costs versus the consumer's. Catastrophic plans, which tend to have the lowest premiums and highest out-of-pocket costs, are also available, targeting those under 30 or with a hardship exemption.
As we move up the metal tiers, premiums generally increase while out-of-pocket expenses decrease. For instance, a Bronze plan may have lower monthly costs but higher out-of-pocket expenses when care is needed, which can be significant during a major health event. Conversely, a Platinum plan will carry higher monthly premiums, but the insurer covers a larger percentage of expenses, minimizing the cost when care is needed.
For individuals below 250% of the Federal Poverty Line, cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are available on Silver plans. These CSRs lower the amount one pays for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, offering financial relief and making health care more accessible.
The most cost-effective Silver-tier health insurance plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% offered by Anthem (BCBS), at an average monthly cost of $324.
Here are the three most affordable Silver plans in New Hampshire:
Silver plans are ideal for individuals who anticipate needing moderate health care services, prefer lower deductibles and do not want to pay high premiums. Customers with lower incomes might be eligible for cost-sharing reductions, which reduce out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. These reductions make care and treatment more accessible and affordable when services are needed.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$324 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$6,150 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 4500/20% HSA |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,200 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5500/20% |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$347 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanStandard Silver |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$347 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,400 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 3500/15% HSA |
The Anthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 700/40% by Anthem (BCBS) emerges as the most affordable Gold health insurance plan in New Hampshire, with an average monthly cost of $354.
The three most affordable Gold health plans in New Hampshire are:
Gold plans aim to serve consumers who expect to use a moderate to high amount of medical care. They typically pay a higher monthly premium than Silver or Bronze plans but have lower out-of-pocket costs when receiving care. These plans are a good choice for individuals who want the security of more predictable health care costs.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$354 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 | PlanAnthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 700/40% |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$360 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,000 | PlanAnthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 1200/20% |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$367 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700 | PlanAnthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 1500/25% Standard |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$379 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 | PlanEveryday Gold |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$380 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700 | PlanStandard Gold |
In New Hampshire, Anthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 6500/40% from Anthem (BCBS) emerges as the only Bronze plan available, with an average monthly cost of $266.
Bronze health plans typically offer lower monthly premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs when accessing medical services. These plans are suited for individuals who want to keep their monthly expenses minimal and are comfortable with the potential of higher costs during actual health care visits. They may be a good fit for those who are in good health and don't anticipate needing frequent medical care.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$266 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 6500/40% |
The most affordable Expanded Bronze plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 7500/50% offered by Anthem (BCBS) at an average monthly cost of $273.
The three most affordable Expanded Bronze plans in New Hampshire are:
Expanded Bronze plans typically strike a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. These plans are well-suited for individuals who wish to keep their monthly costs low while accepting a higher deductible. They appeal to those who do not expect significant medical expenses and are comfortable with more significant cost-sharing in exchange for lower premiums.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$273 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 7500/50% Standard |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$275 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,400 | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 6000/35% HSA |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$277 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 5500/35% |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$279 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanAnthem Bronze Pathway X Enhanced 6000/30% |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$288 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanStandard Expanded Bronze |
The most affordable Catastrophic health insurance plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Catastrophic Pathway X Enhanced 9450/0% plan from Anthem (BCBS), with an average monthly cost of $177 for a 26-year-old.
Catastrophic plans are designed for adults under 30 or those with a hardship exemption. These plans have low premiums but high out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for those who want to minimize monthly expenses while still having a safety net for major medical events. Generally, these plans are not recommended for those who expect regular medical visits or need frequent prescriptions.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$177 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | PlanAnthem Catastrophic Pathway X Enhanced 9450/0% |
The Anthem Platinum Pathway X HMO 250/10%/3000 is the most cost-effective Platinum plan available in New Hampshire, with an average monthly premium of $590, offered by Anthem (BCBS).
Platinum plans are best suited for individuals who expect to need a high level of medical care. They offer the lowest out-of-pocket costs compared to other tiers but come with higher monthly premiums. These plans are particularly suitable for customers who frequent health care providers or have existing health conditions that require comprehensive coverage and frequent treatment.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$590 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$3,000 | PlanAnthem Platinum Pathway X HMO 250/10%/3000 |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$671 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$3,000 | PlanAnthem Platinum Blue Connection EPO 250/10%/3000 |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$702 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$3,000 | PlanAnthem Platinum Access Blue New England HMO 250/10%/3000 |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$817 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$3,000 | PlanAnthem Platinum Preferred Blue PPO 250/10%/3000 |
Individuals in New Hampshire who earn 250% below the Federal Poverty Level annually qualify for cost-sharing reductions on Silver plans, which minimize health costs by reducing deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses.
For incomes between $14,580 and $21,870, the most affordable Silver plan is Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% from Anthem (BCBS) with a Maximum Out-of-Pocket Cost (MOOP) of $1800.
The two most affordable Silver plans with their respective maximum out-of-pocket costs are:
Cost-sharing reductions in New Hampshire are available exclusively with Silver plans. The income figures provided apply to single individuals and vary with household size.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$324 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,800 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$700 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 4500/20% HSA |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$700 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5500/20% |
| Ambetter | Monthly Cost$347 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,800 | PlanStandard Silver |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$347 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$550 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 3500/15% HSA |
Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are discounts that lower the amount you pay for health care. To qualify for CSRs, you must enroll in a Silver plan and have a household income between 100% and 250% of the federal poverty level. For example, the maximum out-of-pocket cost for the Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard plan with a 94% AV Level Silver Plan CSR is $1,800, whereas the same plan with a 73% AV Level Silver Plan CSR has a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $7,200, demonstrating significant potential savings.
The most popular plan type in New Hampshire is an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization).
The most affordable health plan in New Hampshire for an HMO is the Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard from Anthem (BCBS) at $324 per month.
HMO: Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard from Anthem (BCBS) ($324 per month)
EPO: Standard Silver from Ambetter ($347 per month)
PPO: Anthem Silver Preferred Blue PPO 6500/30%/9450 Value from Anthem (BCBS) ($537 per month)
Apart from HMO plans, residents of New Hampshire can also choose EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) plans, which typically offer a balance between in-network provider choice and the need for referrals, or PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations) plans, which allow more flexibility in selecting health care providers.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$324 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$6,150 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 4500/20% HSA |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,200 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5500/20% |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$347 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,400 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 3500/15% HSA |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$371 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 4000/0% |
The most common plan type in New Hampshire is the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Other plan types available in New Hampshire include Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). Here are some of the main differences between the plan types:
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO):
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO):
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO):
Each plan type offers a unique balance between cost, flexibility and ease of accessing care. Your best plan type will depend on your health care needs and budget.
Health insurance rates and availability of certain plans often vary by location. However, our research found that the most affordable Silver plan in New Hampshire stayed the same in Coos and Hillsborough, the least and most-populated counties in the state, respectively:
The following table details all available plans in each county in New Hampshire.
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$324 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard |
| Anthem (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$335 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$6,150 | PlanAnthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 4500/20% HSA |
Age plays a big role in health insurance costs. In New Hampshire, an 18-year-old with a Silver plan pays about $365 monthly. Meanwhile, a 60-year-old with the same Silver plan would pay around $1,084 monthly. The older person pays $719 more monthly, a significant difference.
Metal tiers inform plan costs, in addition to age. A 40-year-old in New Hampshire with a Bronze plan pays around $266 a month. If they choose a Gold plan instead, the cost goes up to $609. That's $343 more every month for the Gold plan, which covers more medical expenses than the Bronze one.
New Hampshire
MoneyGeek analyzed the different health insurance choices in New Hampshire. We examined private insurance available in the marketplace, including Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum plans. We also explored Medicaid and Medicare. We aim to help you know more so you can choose your best option for health care.
In New Hampshire, the open enrollment period for private health insurance typically runs from November 1 to December 15 each year. This is a window when residents can shop for, compare and enroll in health insurance plans through the marketplace without needing a qualifying life event. If someone fails to meet this deadline, they must wait until the next open enrollment unless they experience a qualifying life event like marriage, childbirth, or loss of other coverage, which triggers a special enrollment period. During this time, they may enroll or change their coverage outside the standard open enrollment period.
Medicaid is a government-funded health care program providing medical assistance to low-income individuals and families. In New Hampshire, eligibility for Medicaid depends on several factors, including income level, age, pregnancy status, disability, family size and household composition, aligning with federal poverty guidelines. Specific groups covered include children, pregnant women, parents/caretakers of dependent children, seniors and individuals with disabilities. Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act also allows coverage for adults without dependent children meeting income requirements. The state regularly updates eligibility criteria, ensuring the program serves those in need according to its regulations and available resources.
Medicare is a federal health care program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, though it also covers younger people with certain disabilities or diseases. In New Hampshire, anyone who meets these criteria is eligible. Medicare is divided into parts: Part A covers hospital insurance, including inpatient care and hospice; Part B provides medical insurance for outpatient care, physician services and other medical supplies; Part C, or Medicare Advantage, allows private health plans to offer combined Part A and B benefits, often with additional services; Part D covers prescription drug plans.
MoneyGeek has identified the best Medicare Advantage Plans in New Hampshire and the best Medicare Supplement plans in New Hampshire.
You may have questions about cost and availability when looking for health insurance. MoneyGeek responded to frequently asked questions about cheap private health insurance in New Hampshire to help you learn more.
The cheapest silver plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Silver Pathway X Enhanced 5900/40% Standard provided by Anthem (BCBS) at $324 monthly. Meanwhile, the cheapest gold plan in New Hampshire is the Anthem Gold Pathway X Enhanced 700/40% from the same provider, costing $354 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.
