Best Health Insurance Companies In North Carolina

With 15 years of experience in health insurance and 12 years in North Carolina, I’ve found Aetna to be one of the best options for comprehensive and affordable healthcare coverage.

The average monthly premium for an Aetna Silver plan in North Carolina is about $498, though costs depend on factors like location and age. A 40-year-old may pay around $573 per month.

Aetna’s broad provider network and perks, such as CVS Health discounts, add value. Their lower-than-average complaint rate reflects their dedication to customer satisfaction.

Common Health Insurance Terms

Learning about health insurance can be difficult due to confusing terminology. Here are key terms North Carolinians might hear.

Premium – The monthly amount paid to maintain health coverage.
Deductible – The money you must spend before insurance starts helping.
Copay – A fixed cost for medical visits or prescriptions.
Coinsurance – A shared expense between you and the insurance company.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum – The highest amount you’ll pay annually before insurance covers all costs.
HMO – A cost-effective plan with provider restrictions.
PPO – A plan that offers flexibility at a higher price.

Knowing these words can help you evaluate and select the best insurance policy for your needs.

Factors Affecting Health Insurance Costs In North Carolina

• Age: Older individuals often pay more due to higher medical needs.
• Location: Living in a big city means higher premiums, while rural areas may lack provider options.
• Coverage Level: More comprehensive plans, such as Gold or Platinum, cost more.
• Family Size: Adding dependents increases the total premium.
• Tobacco Use: Insurance companies charge smokers extra.
• Insurance Provider: Costs depend on the insurer’s pricing structure.

How To Save On Health Insurance In North Carolina

North Carolinians can decrease their health insurance costs by choosing affordable plans, using financial assistance programs, and making smart healthcare decisions. Here are some effective money-saving tips.

• Pick an HDHP for Lower Premiums: These plans can be paired with an HSA for tax-free savings.
• Compare Multiple Plans: Reviewing all options helps you find the right balance of cost and benefits.
• See if You Qualify for ACA Subsidies: Based on income, you might get financial help.
• Use Employer Health Plans: If offered, job-based insurance is usually the cheapest option.
• Stay Within Your Insurance Network: Visiting in-network providers helps avoid extra costs.
• Take Advantage of Preventive Care: Many services, like checkups and vaccines, are free.
• Choose Generic Prescriptions: They are more affordable than brand-name drugs.

Exploring all coverage options ensures North Carolinians get top-quality health insurance at the best possible price.

How To Sign Up For A Health Insurance Policy

Signing up for health coverage in North Carolina is simple, but planning and meeting deadlines are important.

• Determine Your Eligibility – Find out if you qualify for employer health plans, Medicare, Medicaid, or ACA plans.
• Go to the Insurance Marketplace – Create an account on the official website.
• Review Your Options – Compare coverage, costs, and doctor networks.
• See If You Can Get Help – If eligible, financial aid will reduce your premium.
• Pick a Plan – Select one that fits your healthcare needs.
• Enroll in Coverage – Submit documents and finalize your plan.
• Make the First Payment – Your insurance starts once you pay your premium.

Individuals facing significant life changes, such as losing a job or getting married, may be able to enroll in health insurance outside the open enrollment period.

Cheapest Health Insurance Companies In North Carolina

Affordable health insurance in North Carolina is within reach if you compare providers. Here are five companies that offer some of the lowest average premiums for Silver plans.

Please Note: These rates are estimates for a 40-year-old and may change based on age, residence, and financial aid eligibility.

If you’re searching for lower premiums, you may qualify for ACA subsidies. Many North Carolinians can significantly reduce their costs through assistance programs.

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost In North Carolina?

Health insurance prices in North Carolina change depending on factors like age, plan tier, and location. In 2025, the typical Silver plan costs $498 per month, Bronze plans average $372, and Gold plans cost $515. Catastrophic plans, tailored for younger and healthier people, cost around $375.

A 40-year-old’s Silver plan premium averages $573 per month. Subsidies, employer-sponsored plans, and marketplace options can help lower costs. Many North Carolinians qualify for ACA financial assistance.

Average Cost By Coverage Level

The cost of a health insurance plan in North Carolina varies based on coverage level. Plans are divided into four tiers—Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—each offering different trade-offs between premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Bronze plans offer lower monthly premiums but come with higher deductibles, while Platinum plans have higher monthly costs but lower out-of-pocket expenses. Below is a breakdown of the average monthly premiums for each tier.

Average Cost By Family Size

The price of health insurance in North Carolina depends on whether you’re getting an individual or family plan. Individual plans have lower premiums, while family plans—covering spouses and children—cost more as additional members are included. Below is a summary of average monthly premiums based on family size.

Average Cost Of Health Insurance Plans By City

Health insurance premiums in North Carolina depend on where you live, with factors like provider fees, insurer competition, and area health risks shaping costs. Below is a comparison of Silver plan rates in five major North Carolina cities.

Health Insurance Coverage Levels

Health insurance is categorized into four tiers, each with its own costs and benefits. North Carolinians should understand these options to make the best choice.

Bronze – Lowest monthly payments, but you’ll pay more for medical services. Good for healthy individuals.
Silver – Balanced cost and coverage, great for those who qualify for financial help.
Gold – Higher premiums, but you save on doctor visits and prescriptions.
Platinum – Highest monthly cost, but minimal out-of-pocket expenses.

The best plan choice varies depending on your healthcare usage, monthly budget, and willingness to take financial risks.

Health Insurance Options In North Carolina If You Have A Low Income

Several programs are in place to help North Carolinians access affordable healthcare and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

Medicaid – Offers free or low-cost medical insurance to eligible low-income people.
CHIP – Provides health coverage for kids in families who don’t meet Medicaid’s requirements.
ACA Subsidies – Financial aid to make insurance more affordable.
FQHCs – Medical centers that charge fees based on income.
Charity Care – Some hospitals help uninsured patients by reducing or waiving medical costs.
Short-Term Insurance – Limited coverage for people in transition.

Exploring these resources allows people to access medical care without overwhelming expenses.