Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out how much health insurance costs in Texas? You are not alone. With so many plans and price ranges, it can be tough to decide what fits your budget. Trying to choose a health insurance plan might even seem confusing or stressful, but don’t worry. We’re here to help. This guide will break it all down in simple terms, helping you understand exactly what to expect from health insurance costs in Texas for 2026.
By reading this guide, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to make an informed decision. You’ll see how factors like plan types, location, and your family size affect your premiums. Whether you’re looking for coverage for yourself, your family, or your small business, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- The typical monthly premiums in Texas for individuals, families, and small businesses
- How things like age, location, and plan type influence your monthly premiums
- A detailed breakdown of different plan types HMO, PPO, POS, and EPO and how they affect costs
- Whether domestic partners can share health insurance in Texas
- How a health insurance broker can save you time, money, and effort
Sit back, relax, and let’s explore everything you need to know to find the right health insurance plan for 2026. By the end of this blog, you’ll understand the details, and choosing the best option will feel much easier.
What Is the Average Cost of Health Insurance in Texas Per Month?
Health insurance costs in Texas can vary depending on several factors, like your age, the plan you choose, and whether you qualify for subsidies. In this section, we’ll give you a clear picture of what you can expect in 2026.
Statewide Average Premiums for 2026
Here’s a quick look at typical health insurance premiums in Texas for 2026:
| Plan Type | Average Monthly Premium (Individual) | Average Monthly Premium (Family) | Deductibles |
| Bronze | $300–$450 | $1,200–$1,500 | $6,000–$8,000 |
| Silver | $400–$600 | $1,500–$2,000 | $4,000–$6,000 |
| Gold | $600–$800 | $1,800–$2,300 | $2,000–$3,000 |
- Bronze Plans: These plans have the lowest premiums but come with higher deductibles.
- Silver Plans: A middle option, balancing monthly costs and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Gold Plans: Higher premiums but offer the best coverage with lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
How Texas Compares to the National Average
In Texas, premiums tend to be 5–10% lower than the national average. Nationwide, the average premium for an individual is $550 per month, so many Texans will find savings compared to the national baseline.
However, premiums may vary depending on where you live. Larger cities like Dallas or Austin tend to have slightly higher premiums due to the higher concentration of healthcare providers, while rural areas may offer more affordable premiums.
Key Factors That Influence Health Insurance Costs in Texas
Several factors will influence your monthly premiums. Understanding these factors will help you predict your costs and choose the best plan.
Your Age & Health History
Your age and health history are major factors that affect premiums. Younger, healthier individuals typically pay less, while older adults or individuals with pre-existing conditions often face higher premiums. If you’re healthy and in your 20s or 30s, expect to pay less than someone in their 50s or 60s, or someone with a medical history requiring ongoing treatment.
Where You Live in Texas (County-Based Pricing)
Where you live in Texas plays a key role in determining your premium. In urban areas like Dallas or Austin, premiums are generally higher due to the density of providers and hospitals. Rural areas, on the other hand, may offer lower premiums, but could also have fewer healthcare options available.
The Type of Plan You Choose
The plan type you choose will have a big impact on your costs. Here’s a breakdown of the different plans available in Texas and how they compare:
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Lowest premiums, but you must use in-network providers and get referrals for specialists.
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): More expensive, but offers the flexibility to see out-of-network providers.
- POS (Point of Service): A hybrid between HMO and PPO; a bit more expensive than HMO but offers some out-of-network coverage.
- EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Similar to PPO, but it limits you to a strict network, and you cannot go out-of-network except in emergencies.
Metal Tier Level & Subsidies
Plans are categorized by metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Bronze plans have the lowest premiums but higher deductibles. Platinum plans have the highest premiums but the lowest deductibles.
If you qualify for subsidies based on your income, you can reduce your premium. These subsidies are available through the Health Insurance Marketplace and can make health insurance more affordable for low- and middle-income individuals and families.
Broker-Assisted vs Private Marketplace Plans
If you buy insurance directly from an insurer, you might miss out on better deals or subsidies. Working with a health insurance broker like Wilkerson Insurance Agency gives you access to multiple carriers, helping you compare different plans and find the best price. Plus, brokers offer their services at no extra cost to you.
Comparing Health Insurance Plan Types in Texas
Choosing between HMO, PPO, POS, and EPO plans can feel like a trade-off: cost versus flexibility. Here’s what that looks like in practice.
HMO vs PPO vs POS vs EPO What’s the Price Difference?
| Plan Type | Average Monthly Premium (Individual) | Flexibility |
| HMO | $300–$450 | Limited network, referrals required |
| PPO | $450–$600 | High flexibility, out-of-network coverage |
| POS | $400–$550 | Some flexibility, but higher cost than HMO |
| EPO | $400–$550 | Restrictive network, no out-of-network coverage |
If flexibility is important to you, a PPO or POS plan might be worth the higher cost. But if you’re looking to save money, an HMO or EPO plan could be the better fit.
Individual & Family Health Insurance Costs in Texas
Health insurance premiums depend on your household size. Below are the typical premiums you can expect.
Average Monthly Cost for a Single Adult
For a single adult, most plans cost between $400–$600 per month depending on the plan type and metal tier. Bronze and Silver plans are generally the most affordable, while Gold plans offer the best coverage but come with higher premiums.
Costs for Married Couples or Partners
For married couples or domestic partners, premiums will increase based on the number of people covered:
- Silver plans: $800–$1,200 per month
- Gold plans: Up to $1,500+ per month
Family Plans: 3‑, 4‑ & 5‑Person Household Pricing
| Household Size | Average Monthly Premium |
| 3-person | $1,200–$1,600 |
| 4-person | $1,500–$2,000 |
| 5-person | $1,800–$2,300 |
For couples who are not married, navigating health insurance can be tricky. This section outlines when sharing coverage is possible and what insurers typically require.
Not always. Many insurance carriers in Texas allow unmarried couples to share a plan but it requires documentation proving the partnership, such as a domestic partnership affidavit or proof of cohabitation.
Yes, if your insurer supports domestic partnerships. Some carriers will allow you to add your partner as a dependent provided you submit documentation that confirms you’re living together and meet the insurer’s criteria.
Domestic Partnership Proof Requirements
When applying for shared insurance as a domestic partnership, documentation matters. Below is a breakdown of what insurers commonly require.
How to Prove Domestic Partnership for Insurance
To prove domestic partnership for health insurance, you’ll need to provide specific documents that show you share a life together. These may include:
- Joint financial accounts
- A shared lease agreement
- Bills showing a shared address
Domestic Partnership Affidavit Explained
A domestic partnership affidavit is a legal document that affirms the couple’s relationship and their shared responsibilities. It must be signed by both partners and typically requires notarization.
Medicare Supplement & Medigap Costs in Texas
For seniors or individuals on Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans provide essential coverage for gaps like co-pays, coinsurance, or deductibles.
Average 2026 Monthly Costs for Texas Medigap Plans
For Texas seniors, the average monthly premium for Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans is $150–$250 per month, depending on the plan type (Plan G, Plan F, etc.), your age, and the insurance carrier.
Best Medicare Supplement Plans in Texas
Top carriers such as UnitedHealthcare and Aetna tend to offer competitive Medigap plans. These plans cover many of the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare hospital stays, doctor visits, and more.
Working With a Health Insurance Broker in Texas
Choosing a broker can simplify health insurance selection especially when you’re comparing multiple plan types, providers, and coverage needs.
Why Use an Independent Broker Like Wilkerson Insurance Agency?
- Access to multiple insurance carriers, not tied to just one
- Personalized plan comparisons to match your needs
- Help navigating complex terms like HMO/PPO/POS/EPO and subsidies
How to Lower Monthly Health Insurance Costs
Reducing your monthly insurance bill is often about smart choices not cutting corners on coverage.
Adjusting Deductibles & Copays
Opting for higher deductibles or copays can lower your monthly premium. If you’re healthy and don’t anticipate heavy medical expenses, this can be a smart way to save.
Using ACA Subsidies & Tax Credits
If you qualify for subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, you can significantly reduce your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Check your eligibility during Open Enrollment.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Health Insurance Plan in Texas
Health insurance costs in Texas vary widely depending on your age, location, household size, and plan type. Whether you’re an individual, part of a couple, heading a family, self-employed, or running a small business your ideal plan will differ.
You don’t have to navigate this complexity alone. An experienced independent broker like Wilkerson Insurance Agency can help you compare options across carriers and find coverage that fits your budget and needs. If you’re ready to explore plans, call us today at (214) 501-9613 or visit our Dallas office for a personalized consultation.
Need help tailoring your coverage to your situation? We’re here to guide you through the options and get you the protection you deserve.
