Average Health Insurance Premiums in Virginia (2026)
The following estimates show typical unsubsidized monthly premiums for a 40-year-old single adult
in Virginia in 2026. Actual costs vary significantly by ZIP code, age, and plan choice:
- Bronze HDHP: approximately $75–$170/month
- Bronze (standard): approximately $155–$295/month
- Silver: approximately $370–$570/month (lower end)
- Gold: approximately $370–$570/month (upper end)
Premiums increase with age and household size. Younger adults (20s, early 30s) pay less;
adults in their 50s and early 60s pay significantly more. Tobacco users pay a surcharge
in most states.
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019. Northern Virginia has access to DC-area carriers including CareFirst BCBS. Premiums in NOVA tend to be higher than rural Virginia.
How ACA Subsidies Reduce Your Premium in Virginia
If your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level (roughly
$15,650–$62,600 for a single adult in 2026), you qualify for ACA premium tax credits
that directly reduce your monthly premium. The subsidy is calculated as the difference between
your benchmark Silver plan premium and a capped percentage of your income.
At income levels below 250% FPL, you also qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSR) on Silver
plans that reduce deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums significantly.
Carriers in Virginia (2026)
Marketplace carriers in Virginia include: Anthem HealthKeepers, Optima Health (Sentara), CareFirst BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, Oscar Health. The dominant carrier in most Virginia
counties is Anthem HealthKeepers. Plan availability varies by county — check healthcare.gov for
exact options in your ZIP code.
Virginia Medicaid: Free or Low-Cost Coverage in Virginia
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019. Adults earning up to 138% FPL qualify for Virginia Medicaid. Apply through Cover Virginia or at healthcare.gov.