Quick answer
In 2026, the benchmark silver plan for a 40-year-old on Covered California averaged $570 a month before subsidies, below the U.S. average of $625. Prices rise with age, from roughly $446 a month at 21 to $1,210 at 60. Most enrollees pay much less after federal tax credits, and California adds its own help for people with incomes up to 200% of the poverty level. Covered California’s rates are rising an average of 9.9% for 2027.
Key takeaways
- About 1.79 million Californians were enrolled through Covered California in March 2026.
- California is spending $300 million on state subsidies for 2027, reaching an estimated 500,000 people.
- Open enrollment for 2027 coverage runs from November 1, 2026 to January 31, 2027.
- 12 insurers will sell Covered California plans in 2027, including new entrant CalOptima Health.
- California has its own tax penalty for going without coverage.
On this page
What a Covered California plan costs before subsidies
| Age | Benchmark silver plan, per month (2026 estimate) |
|---|---|
| 21 | $446 |
| 30 | $506 |
| 40 | $570 |
| 50 | $797 |
| 60 | $1,210 |
| 64 | $1,338 |
| Child under 15 | $341 |
A family of four with two 40-year-old parents and two young children would pay about $1,822 a month for benchmark plans before subsidies. Prices also differ a lot between California’s 19 pricing regions, so check the rates for your ZIP code.
What you’d pay after subsidies
If your household income is between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, a federal premium tax credit caps what you pay for the benchmark plan at a share of your income. A single 40-year-old earning $40,000 would pay about $287 a month for the benchmark silver plan in 2026, with a tax credit of about $283. For 2027, California’s own subsidy program adds help for people with incomes up to 200% of the poverty level.
Above 400% of the poverty level, there’s no federal tax credit, so you’d pay full price.
Covered California facts
- 2027 prices: Rates are rising an average of 9.9%.
- State help: $300 million in state subsidies for 2027, up from $190 million, projected to help more than 500,000 people, about 30% of enrollees.
- Insurers: 12 insurers, with CalOptima Health joining for 2027.
- Standard plans: Covered California uses standardized benefit designs, so plans at the same metal level have the same deductibles and copays and you can compare on price, network and quality.
- Coverage mandate: California residents without qualifying coverage can owe a state tax penalty.
Free and low-cost options
- Medi-Cal covers adults with incomes up to 138% of the poverty level and children in families with higher incomes. See health insurance for low-income families.
- Silver plans with extra savings for incomes up to 250% of the poverty level lower deductibles and copays.
- Job-based coverage, if it’s offered, is usually cheaper than buying on your own.
For more ways to save, see the cheapest ways to get health insurance. To understand why prices differ by age and region, see how health insurance rates are determined.
Health insurance costs in nearby states: Oregon, Nevada and Arizona. You can also compare health insurance costs in every state.
See 2027 Covered California plans for your ZIP code: compare quotes.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the average cost of health insurance in California?
Before subsidies, the 2026 benchmark silver plan for a 40-year-old averaged $570 a month. After subsidies, many enrollees pay far less.
When is open enrollment for 2027 in California?
November 1, 2026 to January 31, 2027. Sign up by December 31 for coverage starting January 1.
Is there a penalty for not having health insurance in California?
Yes. California has its own individual mandate, and residents without qualifying coverage may owe a penalty on their state tax return unless they qualify for an exemption.
Sources
This article is general information, not insurance or tax advice. Prices are averages and estimates; your actual premium depends on your region, age, income and plan. Last reviewed September 2026.