Medicare Advantage Plan Cost 2026

Medicare Advantage plans cost $0 monthly on average in 2026, though most charge nothing extra. Your total expenses depend on plan type and location.

Explore Medicare Advantage plan expenses by type and state below.

Written by Patrick Bryant

Updated: May 15, 2026

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Key Takeaways

Medicare Advantage plans cost an average of $0 monthly in 2026, with 60% of plans charging $0 beyond your Part B premium.

Beyond plan premiums, you'll pay copays for doctor visits, prescription costs up to the $2,100 annual drug spending cap and up to $9,250 per year in total in-network out-of-pocket costs.

You can lower costs by staying in-network, applying for Extra Help with drug expenses and comparing plans during open enrollment.

How Much Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cost?

Most Medicare Advantage plans cost $0 per month in 2026, according to MoneyGeek's analysis. But that's just the starting point. Your total costs depend on the plan type you pick and how much medical care you need. While most Medicare Advantage plans are free (60% of all plans according to our analysis), there are some plans that do charge a premium. Excluding free plans, HMO plans average $53 monthly, while PPO plans average $63 monthly.

Your total costs also include the Medicare Part B premium of $203 monthly and the $283 annual deductible. You'll also pay copays and coinsurance when you see doctors or get services. Not yet 65? Check health insurance options for retirees until you qualify for Medicare.


HMO	$0	$53	76%	$5,479
HMO-POS	$0	$56	66%	$5,725
PFFS	$37	$40	10%	$6,387
PPO	$0	$63	58%	$6,748
Regional PPO	$97	$88	0%	$7,838
All Plan Types	$0	$63	60%	$6,312

Premium amounts represent consolidated monthly costs for Medicare Part C and Part D coverage, based on MoneyGeek's analysis of 2026 Medicare Advantage plan data. We've included both median and average rates to give a full picture of associated costs. For the average cost, we excluded $0 premium plans. Out-of-pocket maximums reflect average in-network limits for 2026. Individual plan costs vary by location, insurer and coverage level. The "% of $0 Premium Plans" represents the amount of free plans of that plan type according to the plans we surveyed.

PPO VS. HMO PLANS

In our analysis, PPO plans charge $10 more per month than HMOs on average but carry a $1,269 higher average out-of-pocket maximum. That tradeoff is worth it only if you need out-of-network access. Otherwise an HMO delivers the same coverage at lower total cost.

Medicare Advantage Plans Cost by State

Shopping for Medicare Advantage gets tricky because premiums vary widely by state. Your ZIP code affects costs since insurers price plans based on local health care expenses and market competition. States with more insurer competition tend to have more $0-premium plans. For example, 98% of Arizona’s HMO plans have $0 premiums, compared to just 25% in Minnesota, where there are fewer carriers. Colorado, Nebraska and Utah also offer $0 HMO premiums, while Massachusetts averages $78 per month.

Your best option depends on where you live. In states where most HMO plans cost $0, like Florida at 94%, Georgia at 85% and Texas at 86%, an HMO is likely your lowest-cost path if your doctors are in-network. In states like Minnesota and Montana, where $0 HMO plans are less common, PPO premiums are worth comparing closely, since the cost gap between plan types narrows in lower-competition markets.


Alabama	$0 / $44 / 71%	$20 / $48 / 47%
Arizona	$0 / $44 / 98%	$0 / $108 / 59%
Arkansas	$0 / $11 / 73%	$0 / $46 / 90%
California	$0 / $51 / 80%	$45 / $65 / 27%
Colorado	$0 / $0 / 100%	$9 / $47 / 49%
Connecticut	$0 / $45 / 54%	$0 / $18 / 92%
Delaware	$0 / $46 / 62%	$20 / $62 / 46%
Florida	$0 / $35 / 94%	$0 / $73 / 83%
Georgia	$0 / $30 / 85%	$0 / $35 / 73%
Hawaii	$0 / $143 / 69%	$20 / $56 / 32%
Idaho	$0 / $99 / 56%	$29 / $58 / 35%
Illinois	$0 / $59 / 99%	$0 / $60 / 63%
Indiana	$0 / $54 / 86%	$0 / $30 / 60%
Iowa	$0 / $34 / 73%	$0 / $46 / 64%
Kansas	$36 / $35 / 18%	$0 / $39 / 86%
Kentucky	$0 / $15 / 94%	$0 / $34 / 65%
Louisiana	$0 / $21 / 88%	$0 / $65 / 60%
Maine	$0 / $21 / 67%	$0 / $57 / 60%
Maryland	$30 / $63 / 33%	$26 / $47 / 17%
Massachusetts	$78 / $142 / 26%	$29 / $138 / 44%
Michigan	$0 / $17 / 80%	$0 / $82 / 54%
Minnesota	$50 / $95 / 25%	$60 / $103 / 25%
Mississippi	$0 / $16 / 88%	$0 / $31 / 59%
Missouri	$0 / $37 / 81%	$0 / $70 / 78%
Montana	$18 / $18 / 19%	$64 / $92 / 42%
Nebraska	$0 / $0 / 100%	$30 / $61 / 47%
Nevada	$0 / $50 / 83%	$0 / $28 / 89%
New Hampshire	$14 / $18 / 23%	$22 / $44 / 45%
New Jersey	$0 / $55 / 65%	$0 / $57 / 50%
New Mexico	$0 / $83 / 89%	$0 / $48 / 54%
New York	$25 / $97 / 44%	$32 / $76 / 42%
North Carolina	$0 / $27 / 71%	$0 / $72 / 60%
North Dakota	N/A	$59 / $88 / 30%
Ohio	$0 / $51 / 66%	$0 / $54 / 51%
Oklahoma	$0 / $60 / 65%	$0 / $70 / 59%
Oregon	$0 / $110 / 59%	$59 / $100 / 40%
Pennsylvania	$22 / $75 / 47%	$13 / $84 / 49%
Rhode Island	N/A	$0 / $26 / 67%
South Carolina	$0 / $32 / 70%	$0 / $33 / 67%
South Dakota	N/A	$55 / $79 / 25%
Tennessee	$0 / $28 / 65%	$28 / $61 / 40%
Texas	$0 / $10 / 86%	$0 / $63 / 68%
Utah	$0 / $0 / 100%	$0 / $80 / 54%
Vermont	N/A	$0 / $0 / 100%
Virginia	$0 / $21 / 79%	$0 / $58 / 60%
Washington	$0 / $100 / 52%	$56 / $89 / 37%
West Virginia	$0 / $0 / 100%	$0 / $67 / 53%
Wisconsin	$0 / $145 / 74%	$21 / $72 / 48%
Wyoming	N/A	$66 / $98 / 3%
Washington, D.C.	$0 / $0 / 100%	$32 / $39 / 17%

We show median and average consolidated monthly premiums for HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plans by state, based on MoneyGeek's analysis. Actual costs can vary. States marked N/A didn't have enough plans of that type to produce a reliable average.

Breaking Down Medicare Advantage Costs

Medicare Advantage plans bundle your coverage into one package, but you'll still pay for health care in different ways. Medicare Advantage plans charge several types of expenses beyond your monthly premium. Your total costs depend on your plan's structure, the services you use and whether you see in-network providers.

Premiums

Most people get a pleasant surprise here, as 60% of Medicare Advantage plans charge $0 extra beyond what you're already paying for Part B. That Part B premium runs $203 monthly, and you pay it whether you stick with original Medicare or switch to Medicare Advantage.

When plans do charge a premium, they average $63 monthly based on our analysis of 2026 plan year rates. Some plans also cover part of your Part B payment, reducing your effective monthly cost below $203.

Deductibles

Your deductible is the amount you pay before your plan starts covering costs. The good news is that many Medicare Advantage plans skip the medical deductible entirely.

Drug coverage follows different rules. Plans with prescription benefits can charge up to $615 annually for medications in 2026. Check your plan documents to see what you're on the hook for before coverage begins.

Coinsurance and Copay

Once you clear your deductible, you split costs with your plan. Copays are straightforward and usually around $20 when you see your primary doctor. Coinsurance takes a percentage, like 20% of hospital bills, while your plan covers the rest.

Staying in-network keeps costs lower. If you go out of the network, you'll pay more. Your plan caps annual spending at $9,250 for in-network services, which protects you if health issues pile up.

Prescription Drug Costs

Drug spending maxes out at $2,100 annually. Hit that ceiling and you're done paying for covered medications through December 31. Your plan's formulary lists which drugs count toward this cap, so check it before filling prescriptions.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS

Medicare Advantage plan types handle networks and referrals differently. Some give you total freedom to choose doctors. Others save you money by limiting your options.

HMO Plans: HMO plans offer lower monthly costs with stricter rules. Choose one primary doctor who coordinates your care. Specialists require referrals. All care must stay in-network, or expect full out-of-pocket costs (emergencies excepted). The restricted network trades flexibility for affordability.
HMO-POS Plans: These work like regular HMOs with added flexibility. Primary doctors and referrals remain required, but out-of-network care becomes an option. Out-of-network visits cost more than in-network services, though less than standard HMO out-of-network penalties.
PPO Plans: PPO plans eliminate referral requirements and primary care physician mandates. See any doctor without prior approval. In-network providers offer the best rates, but out-of-network care remains partially covered. Higher premiums reflect this increased flexibility.
Regional PPO Plans: These plans cover entire states or multiple states. Coverage works well for people splitting time between locations or traveling frequently. Availability is more limited than local PPOs, which works well for snowbirds and frequent travelers.
PFFS Plans: Private Fee-for-Service plans maximize provider choice. Any Medicare-accepting doctor who agrees to the plan's payment terms can provide care. Not all doctors accept PFFS terms, so verify acceptance before appointments. No primary care physician or referrals required.

How Can You Lower Your Medicare Advantage Plan Costs?

You can cut Medicare Advantage costs by comparing plans during open enrollment, staying in-network and applying for assistance programs that many beneficiaries overlook. The savings from those programs often outweigh what you'd gain from switching plans alone.

Some work best when you're shopping during open enrollment. Others are assistance programs you can tap into if money's tight. Don't skip checking these out even if you think you earn too much. The income limits might surprise you, and the savings definitely will.

1
Compare Plans During Open Enrollment
Your plan's costs have probably changed since last year. That $20 monthly premium might've jumped to $50, or maybe another insurer now offers better coverage for less money. You can switch plans between October 15 and December 7. Pull up Medicare's Plan Finder tool and see what's available in your area. Your current plan might not be your best deal anymore. Our analysis of top Medicare Advantage plans can help you identify which insurers consistently offer strong value.
2
Stay In-Network
Sticking with doctors in your plan's network saves you money. These providers agreed to lower rates with your insurer. Go outside the network and you'll pay way more in copays and coinsurance. Before you book that appointment, call the office to make sure they're still in your network. Networks shift around more than you'd think.
3
Apply for Extra Help
Extra Help pays for prescription drug costs if you're living on a limited income. It covers your drug premiums, deductibles and what you'd normally pay at the pharmacy. You can apply at SSA.gov/extrahelp or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Income limits change each year, so check the current numbers when you apply.
4
Check Medicare Savings Programs
Your state might cover your Part B premium. Some states also cover deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. Every state sets different income limits, and some don't even count certain resources. Call your state Medicaid office even if you're not sure you'll qualify. You might be eligible and just don't know it yet.
5
Ask About Pharmaceutical Assistance
Drug makers run programs that cut medication costs for people with Medicare. Each company has its own eligibility rules. Contact whoever makes your prescriptions and ask if they've got assistance available. Many people qualify but never bother applying.
6
Choose Generic Medications
Generics work exactly like brand-name drugs but cost less. Ask your doctor if there's a generic option for your prescriptions. You'll get the same results, just with a smaller bill at the pharmacy.

Bottom Line

Most Medicare Advantage beneficiaries will pay the least with an HMO plan, provided their doctors are in-network. If you travel often or split time between states, a Regional PPO gives broader coverage despite its higher premiums and $7,838 average out-of-pocket maximum.

Compare plans every fall during open enrollment. Your current plan's costs may have changed, and a better option could be available in your area. If you have a low income, apply for Extra Help before renewing, which covers drug premiums, deductibles and pharmacy costs for qualifying beneficiaries.

Average Cost of Medicare Advantage Plan: FAQ

We've answered common questions about Medicare Advantage plan costs below:

How much does Medicare Advantage cost per month?

Most Medicare Advantage plans cost $0 monthly in 2026, with 60% of plans charging $0 beyond your Part B premium. You'll still pay the standard $203 monthly Part B premium regardless of your plan choice. Your total costs depend on copays, coinsurance and prescription expenses up to the $2,100 annual drug spending cap.

What's the difference between plan premiums and out-of-pocket costs?

Your premium is what you pay monthly for coverage, averaging $0 for Medicare Advantage plans. Out-of-pocket costs include deductibles, copays and coinsurance when you receive care. Plans cap annual out-of-pocket spending at $9,250 for in-network services, protecting you from catastrophic expenses.

What does the out-of-pocket maximum protect me from?

The out-of-pocket maximum caps your annual spending on covered in-network services at $9,250. Once you reach this limit through deductibles, copays and coinsurance, your plan covers 100% of additional covered services through December 31, protecting you from catastrophic medical expenses.

Are $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans really free?

$0 premium plans have no additional monthly cost beyond your Part B premium, which you pay regardless ($203 monthly). You'll still pay copays when you see doctors, annual deductibles if applicable and prescription costs up to $2,100 annually. The $0 refers only to the plan premium.

How can I reduce my Medicare Advantage costs?

Stay in-network to minimize copays and coinsurance costs. Apply for Extra Help to cover prescription expenses if you have limited income. Check Medicare Savings Programs that may cover your Part B premium, deductibles and copays. Choose generic medications when available to reduce pharmacy costs.

Which Medicare Advantage plan type costs the least?

HMO plans cost the least at $0 monthly on average, compared to Regional PPOs at $97. HMO plans require you to stay in-network and get referrals for specialists, which keeps costs lower. PPO plans charge more but offer flexibility to see out-of-network providers without referrals.

Medicare Advantage costs vary dramatically by location and plan type, so we analyzed over 64,000 plans across all U.S. states to show you what typical coverage actually costs in your area.

Our Research Approach
We collected 64,249 Medicare Advantage plan quotes from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) CY2026 Landscape file. This dataset includes all available MA-PD (Medicare Advantage – Prescription Drug) plans in each state, giving you a complete picture of your coverage options and their costs.

Plan Types Analyzed
Our analysis focuses on MA-PD plans because they bundle everything Medicare beneficiaries need:

Medicare Part A (hospital coverage)
Medicare Part B (medical coverage)
Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)

We excluded MA-only plans (without prescription coverage) since most Medicare beneficiaries need drug coverage and prefer the simplicity of an all-in-one plan.

Coverage Categories
We analyzed monthly premiums and out-of-pocket maximums across five plan types:

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) – Lower costs with network restrictions
HMO-POS (Point of Service) – HMO flexibility with some out-of-network access
PFFS (Private Fee-for-Service) – Maximum provider choice
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) – Network flexibility with higher costs
Regional PPO – Multi-state coverage for frequent travelers.

Data Analysis

We use median costs for the analysis along with the averages. Sixty percent of Medicare Advantage plans charge $0 in monthly premiums beyond your Part B payment. But a small number of plans charge $80 to $150+ monthly for extensive benefits, which skews averages upward and makes typical costs look higher than what most people actually pay.

The median shows what a middle-of-the-pack plan costs in your state and nationally, giving you realistic expectations when shopping for coverage.

Why This Methodology Works for You
Medicare Advantage pricing depends heavily on your location and the plan type you choose. Generic national averages don't help when budgeting for coverage in your specific state. Our analysis of each state's data shows realistic cost expectations based on actual plans available in your area.

About Patrick Bryant

Patrick Bryant is the Vertical Lead for Life and Health Insurance at MoneyGeek, where he researches insurance products, writes consumer guides and maintains the scoring methodologies behind our provider comparisons. He analyzed more than 50 life insurance carriers across multiple policy types, collecting thousands of quotes nationwide to evaluate rates, coverage options and underwriting factors. His methodologies are reviewed quarterly to reflect current market conditions and carrier data.

Read Full Bio »

Sources

Medicare.gov. "Medicare and You Handbook." Accessed November 12, 2025.
Medicare.gov. "Drug Costs." Accessed November 12, 2025.
Medicare.gov. "Medicare Savings Programs." Accessed November 12, 2025.
Medicare.gov. "Explore your Medicare coverage options." Accessed November 12, 2025.