Florida health insurance costs are projected to rise sharply in 2026, with ACA marketplace premiums set to increase at rates significantly above the national average. These changes will impact millions of residents across the state, according to official filings and federal data.
Florida Health Insurance Costs: 2026 Premium Increases
ACA marketplace premiums are expected to rise by a median of 18% nationwide in 2026. However, Florida health insurance costs are forecasted to increase between 20% and 40%, according to insurer filings submitted to federal and state regulators. This represents the largest single-year rate hike since 2018.
Statewide, more than 1 million Floridians could lose access to affordable health insurance as a result of these increases. Florida currently leads the nation in ACA marketplace enrollment, making these changes especially significant for local families and individuals.
Main Drivers of Health Insurance Premium Increases in Florida
The primary factor behind the dramatic rise in Florida health insurance costs is the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits. According to federal agencies, these tax credits previously reduced the cost of ACA insurance premiums for millions of enrollees.
With the expiration of these credits, out-of-pocket premium payments are expected to increase by an average of more than 75% for many Florida residents. Policy changes at the federal level, including new ACA marketplace rules and tariff implementations, are also contributing to the higher costs.
Impact on Older Adults and Middle-Income Earners
According to federal data, older adults and those earning just above 400% of the federal poverty level will face the most significant premium increases. For example, a 60-year-old couple in Florida with an annual income of $85,000 could see their yearly premium payments rise by over $22,600 in 2026.
Similarly, a 40-year-old individual earning $32,000 per year may see monthly premium payments increase by approximately $122. These increases will affect every congressional district in Florida, according to official sources.
ACA Marketplace Developments in 2026
Open enrollment for 2026 ACA marketplace coverage began in November 2025. Insurers across 312 participating ACA marketplaces in all 50 states and Washington D.C. have filed rate requests reflecting these higher costs, according to federal filings.
Changes in federal policy have altered how premium tax credits are calculated, resulting in higher required contributions from enrollees. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, this shift is a key reason for the sharp premium increases in Florida and other states.
Potential for Increased Uninsured Rates
Projections indicate Florida’s uninsured rate could rise by 6 percentage points by 2032 if current trends continue. The majority of ACA marketplace enrollees in the state have incomes between 100% and 250% of the federal poverty level, making them particularly vulnerable to cost increases.
Officials report that as premiums rise, healthier individuals may be more likely to drop coverage. This could create a “sicker risk pool,” further increasing premiums for those who remain insured.
Underlying Healthcare Cost Factors
Rising healthcare costs continue to drive premium increases in Florida. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, higher expenses for hospitalizations, physician care, and prescription drugs have contributed to the upward trend in insurance premiums.
Insurers have cited uncertainty around congressional reauthorization of premium tax credits as a major factor in their rate decisions. Healthcare advocates emphasize that the 2026 premium hikes are significantly larger than typical annual increases, primarily due to the loss of enhanced tax credits.
Advice for Florida Residents Facing Higher Health Insurance Costs
Experts recommend that Florida residents shop early for health insurance plans during open enrollment. Narrowing healthcare priorities and seeking assistance from trusted sources can help individuals and families identify the most suitable coverage options.
Statewide coalitions and nonprofit organizations offer free assistance to help residents navigate the ACA marketplace. These resources are especially important for those at risk of losing coverage due to affordability concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Health Insurance Costs
What is causing Florida health insurance costs to rise in 2026?
The main reason for the increase is the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, which had previously helped lower ACA marketplace premiums. Additional factors include federal policy changes and rising healthcare expenses.
How much will health insurance premiums increase for Florida residents?
Premiums are expected to rise between 20% and 40% in Florida for 2026, according to official filings. Some individuals and families could see out-of-pocket costs increase by more than 75% if they lose access to enhanced tax credits.
Are there affordable health insurance options for older adults in Florida?
Older adults, especially those earning above 400% of the federal poverty level, will face significant premium increases. Free assistance is available through statewide organizations to help find the most affordable plans.
Can you get help enrolling in the ACA marketplace in Florida?
Yes, free assistance is available from local coalitions and nonprofit groups throughout Florida. These organizations can help individuals compare plans and apply for coverage during open enrollment.
Where are Florida health insurance costs rising the most?
Premium increases are expected in every congressional district in Florida, with the largest impacts on older adults and middle-income earners. The changes will affect all ACA marketplace enrollees across the state.
