Updated: May 22, 2024
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Choosing a metal tier other than Silver may affect your health insurance costs. In West Virginia, Highmark (BCBS) offers the most affordable Bronze, Catastrophic and Gold plans, while CareSource has the lowest-priced Silver plan.
If you are looking to balance monthly premiums with quality claims and coverage, MoneyGeek analyzed the best health insurance in West Virginia.
CheapestHealth InsuranceWest VirginiaMost Affordable Health Insurance in West Virginia
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We downloaded plan data for West Virginia 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.
CareSource Marketplace Silver by CareSource is the least expensive option in the popular Silver tier in West Virginia, costing $856 per month. The Silver tier is known for its affordable balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs, making it the most commonly chosen plan type. For those wanting to save on monthly rates at the cost of potentially higher out-of-pocket expenses, Bronze plans are available as well.
Health insurance costs depend on the metal tier, with each level offering a different balance. Generally, higher premiums mean lower out-of-pocket costs and deductibles.
Here are the most affordable health insurance plans from each metal tier:
Finding cheap health insurance that suits your financial and medical needs requires comparing the various tiers and understanding the trade-offs involved.
| Catastrophic | Planmy Blue Access WV Major Events PPO Catastrophic 9450 - 3 Free PCP Visits | CompanyHighmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$517 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 |
| Bronze | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Bronze 8900 | CompanyHighmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$654 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,900 |
| Expanded Bronze | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Standard Bronze 7500 | CompanyHighmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$673 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 |
| Gold | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Standard Gold 1500 | CompanyHighmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$851 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700 |
| Silver | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver | CompanyCareSource | Monthly Cost$856 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 |
In West Virginia's health insurance marketplace, consumers can select from metal tiers like Bronze, Expanded Bronze, Silver, Gold and Catastrophic, each indicating a general level of coverage and cost-sharing between the insurer and insured. Bronze and Expanded Bronze plans have lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket expenses, while Gold plans have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs, catering to those needing frequent medical attention. Silver plans strike a balance with moderate rates and out-of-pocket costs.
For individuals earning below 250% of the Federal Poverty Line, buying a Silver plan qualifies them for cost-sharing reductions. These reductions reduce deductibles, copayments and co-insurance costs, making health care more affordable without needing higher premiums and lower out-of-pocket cost plans like Gold plans. This assistance can make a significant difference in providing better health coverage for lower-income individuals and families.
The most affordable Silver tier health insurance plan in West Virginia is the CareSource Marketplace Silver from CareSource, with a monthly cost of $856.
The three most affordable Silver plans in West Virginia are:
Silver plans are excellent for those expecting moderate health care use — they balance affordable monthly premiums with moderate out-of-pocket costs. Customers with lower income may qualify for cost-sharing reductions with Silver plans, which can significantly lower the amount they have to pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance. These reductions can make Silver plans even more valuable for those eligible, as they help minimize overall health care expenses throughout the year.
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$856 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$861 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$865 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$869 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$870 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Silver 7000 |
The most affordable Gold plan in West Virginia is the my Blue Access WV PPO Standard Gold 1500 offered by Highmark (BCBS), with a monthly cost of $851.
Here are the three cheapest Gold plans in West Virginia:
Gold plans are ideal for customers who expect to need a moderate level of health care. They typically have higher monthly premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs when accessing medical services. These plans are well-suited to individuals wanting a balance between deductible and premium costs, making them popular among consumers who require consistent medical attention or have predictable prescription needs.
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$851 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,700 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Standard Gold 1500 |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$868 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$5,700 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Gold 1700 HSA |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$904 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Gold 0 |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$922 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$6,700 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Premier Gold 0 |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$929 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,500 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Gold 0 + Adult Dental and Vision |
The most affordable option in the Bronze tier for West Virginia residents is the my Blue Access WV PPO Bronze 8900 plan from Highmark (BCBS), costing $654 per month. It is the only Bronze plan available in the state.
Bronze plans are typically the most cost-effective option for individuals prioritizing lower monthly premiums over out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care. These plans suit those who are generally healthy and do not expect to need frequent medical care. The trade-off for the lower premium is that Bronze plans have higher out-of-pocket costs when you do use health care services, making them a smart choice for those willing to bet on their good health and seeking protection against emergencies.
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$654 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,900 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Bronze 8900 |
The most affordable Expanded Bronze tier health plan in West Virginia is the my Blue Access WV PPO Standard Bronze 7500 offered by Highmark (BCBS), with a monthly cost of $673.
The top three most affordable Expanded Bronze plans are:
Expanded Bronze plans offer lower monthly premiums and are suitable for individuals comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs before the full benefits kick in. Ideal for relatively healthy or young adults expecting minimal medical needs, these plans maintain a balance between essential health benefits and cost-sharing, providing accessible and affordable coverage.
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$673 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Standard Bronze 7500 |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$698 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,200 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Bronze 3800 |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$711 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Bronze First |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$712 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$7,100 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Bronze 7100 HSA - Custom Drug Benefit |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$719 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,400 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Bronze First Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
The most cost-effective Catastrophic plan in West Virginia is the my Blue Access WV Major Events PPO Catastrophic 9450 - 3 Free PCP Visits offered by Highmark (BCBS), with a monthly cost of $414.
Catastrophic plans cater to individuals under 30 or those with hardship exemptions, featuring low premiums and high out-of-pocket costs. Ideal for minimizing monthly expenses with a safety net for major medical events, they are not suitable for those requiring regular medical visits or frequent prescriptions.
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$414 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,450 | Planmy Blue Access WV Major Events PPO Catastrophic 9450 - 3 Free PCP Visits |
Consumers in West Virginia with annual income that is 250% below the Federal Poverty Level qualify for cost-sharing reductions on Silver health plans, helping lower deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses.
The most affordable Silver plan for those earning between $14,580 and $21,870 per year is the CareSource Marketplace Silver from CareSource, which has a maximum out-of-pocket cost of $1,800.
The maximum out-of-pocket costs for the two least expensive plans are as follows:
CareSource Marketplace Silver from CareSource (Monthly Cost: $856, Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $1,800)
CareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver from CareSource (Monthly Cost: $861, Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $800)
To benefit from cost-sharing reductions in West Virginia, choosing a Silver plan is essential. The income levels specified are for single individuals and may differ based on household size.
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$856 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,800 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$861 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$800 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$865 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,800 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$869 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$800 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| Highmark (BCBS) | Monthly Cost$870 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$1,200 | Planmy Blue Access WV PPO Silver 7000 |
Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are discounts that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copayments and co-insurance on Silver plans if your income qualifies.
To illustrate, consider the CareSource Marketplace Silver plan for a 40-year-old. Without CSRs, the maximum out-of-pocket cost is $7,200. However, with a 73% actuarial value (AV) level Silver plan, the CSR adjusts these costs, potentially reducing the out-of-pocket maximum for eligible individuals and offering substantial financial relief on health care expenses.
The Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan is the most popular type in West Virginia.
The most affordable HMO plan in West Virginia is the CareSource Marketplace Silver from CareSource, costing $856 per month.
Beyond the leading HMO options, residents of West Virginia can also choose from Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) plans, which offer more flexibility in health care provider choices.
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$856 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$861 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$865 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$869 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver Dental, Vision, & Fitness |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$873 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$8,900 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Core Silver |
These are the differences between the HMO and PPO plan types:
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
Health insurance rates and the availability of certain plans vary by county. Comparing the most affordable plans in the largest and smallest counties by population shows this variation:
The following table displays all available health insurance plans in each county in West Virginia.
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$910 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Silver |
| CareSource | Monthly Cost$914 | Maximum Out-of-Pocket$9,100 | PlanCareSource Marketplace Low Premium Silver |
Age significantly influences health insurance costs in West Virginia. An 18-year-old pays $630 monthly for a Silver plan, while a 60-year-old pays $1,872, creating a $1,242 monthly difference.
Metal tiers indicate coverage and cost variations. For a 40-year-old, a Bronze plan is $654 per month, while a Gold plan is $963 — a $309 difference each month.
MoneyGeek broke down all the health insurance options in West Virginia. We explain private insurance that you can find in the marketplace and the different metal levels like Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. We also cover details about Medicaid and Medicare. Our goal is to help you understand your choices so you can make smart decisions about your health care.
The open enrollment period in West Virginia typically aligns with the federal Health Insurance Marketplace schedule, running from November 1 through December 15 each year. During this time, residents can shop for private health insurance coverage on the Marketplace, comparing different plans and selecting the one that best suits their needs. If you miss this enrollment deadline, you may have to wait until the next open enrollment period to get coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to certain life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or losing other coverage.
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program designed to provide health care coverage to low-income individuals and families. In West Virginia, Medicaid eligibility is determined based on income, family size and other factors. The program primarily serves children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities. Income limits vary by group — for example, pregnant women can qualify with an income up to 198% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). By offering essential health care services at reduced or no cost, Medicaid aims to improve access to quality health care for vulnerable populations.
Medicare is a federal health care program, mainly for people aged 65 and older. However, it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific illnesses like End-Stage Renal Disease. Residents in West Virginia are eligible for Medicare, which includes several parts. Part A covers hospital insurance and provides inpatient care, while Part B involves medical insurance for outpatient care, medical supplies and preventive services. Part C, known as Medicare Advantage, includes all benefits and services under parts A and B, often with additional benefits like vision or dental. Part D covers prescription drugs and is available through private insurance companies.
MoneyGeek found the best Medicare Advantage Plans in West Virginia and the best Medicare Supplement plans in West Virginia.
When looking for health insurance, you may have questions about cost and availability. MoneyGeek responded to some frequently asked questions about cheap health insurance in West Virginia to help you learn more.
The cheapest Silver plan in West Virginia is provided by CareSource with their CareSource Marketplace Silver at a monthly cost of $856. Meanwhile, Highmark (BCBS) offers the cheapest Gold plan in West Virginia, my Blue Access WV PPO Standard Gold 1500, at $851 per month.
Although you'll pay a lower monthly premium for a cheaper health insurance plan, you may have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs when accessing health care services. More expensive plans offer more comprehensive services and lower your out-of-pocket maximums by a considerable amount.
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.
