2026 Rate Increases and Carrier Breakdown
Preliminary 2026 rates reflect a weighted average 10.3% increase, the highest since 2018, driven by medical inflation and utilization trends. Carriers show variance: Anthem Blue Cross at 14.5%, Blue Shield at 9.1%, and Valley Health Plan at 21%. Regional differences exist, with rural areas like Humboldt seeing 8.6% weighted bronze plan hikes.136
For a 40-year-old in Los Angeles County, sample premiums include Blue Shield PPO at $787, Kaiser HMO at $515, and Molina HMO at $536, subject to final review. These base rates exclude subsidy impacts, which amplify costs for unsubsidized shoppers.4
Consumers should compare total costs, including deductibles and co-pays, as middle-income plans may revert to higher out-of-pocket expenses without federal aid.1
Impacts of Expiring Federal Subsidies
The end of enhanced subsidies means 1.7 million enrollees face average net premium jumps of 97%, with some seeing 66% hikes if no extension occurs. Examples: A couple over 400% FPL pays $664 monthly (10% of income), while lower earners get reduced help.12
California allocates $190 million in state funds for those up to 150% FPL, aiming to keep their premiums stable versus 2025. However, those between 150-400% FPL absorb steeper increases, plus rising deductibles and co-pays for labs, drugs, and visits.12
Open enrollment shortens to November 1-December 31; shoppers must act by December 31 for full 2026 coverage. Tools on CoveredCalifornia.com show personalized impacts starting mid-October.210
Key Plan Changes and New Benefits
Bronze and catastrophic plans qualify as high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) in 2026, enabling Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions. Users can apply HSA funds to direct primary care fees up to $150/month individual or $300/family.5
New patient-centered designs adjust medical cost shares, with details in benefit tables covering visits, pharmacy, and deductibles post-initial coverage. Bronze regional rates vary, e.g., Sonoma at 7.5% average increase with Kaiser lowest.67
Enrollees should review options on the official site, factor HSA eligibility, and consider regional pricing for optimal coverage amid rising costs.5