Best Health Insurance Companies of 2026

If you’re looking for health insurance coverage that spans multiple states—or even nationwide—you’ll want a provider with a broad footprint. This 2026 guide highlights the best health insurance companies in the U.S that offer plans in all 50 states or at least 15 states. Criteria is based on affordability, customer satisfaction, provider networks, digital tools, and plan availability across states.”

For deeper insights, check out our health insurance company reviews for each carrier below.

Before comparing carriers, many shoppers use a Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator to estimate their monthly costs and determine whether they qualify for subsidies on ACA Marketplace plans.

Best Health Insurance Companies of 2026: Comparison Table

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS): Best Nationwide & Global Coverage

Blue Cross Blue Shield’s network spans all 50 states, making it one of the best nationwide health insurance companies. With robust PPO options, strong specialty access, and widespread availability on the ACA Marketplace, BCBS is a top choice for families, frequent travelers, and people who need flexibility.

Why BCBS stands out:

• Broadest national provider network

• Strong ACA Marketplace presence

• Wide variety of plan types (PPO, HMO, POS)

• Strong reputation for maternity and family plans

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Broad provider choice and strong member satisfaction, with coverage flexibility across states.
• Cons: Inconsistent service quality and benefit differences between local affiliates.

Learn more in our latest Blue Cross Blue Shield review.

Kaiser Permanente: Best for Integrated, High-Quality Care

Kaiser Permanente consistently ranks as one of the best health insurance companies in the U.S. thanks to its integrated care model, strong customer satisfaction ratings, and excellent preventive care programs. Kaiser offers top-rated health insurance for individuals, families, and Medicare beneficiaries, especially in states where it operates fully integrated hospitals and physician groups.

Why Kaiser Permanente Stands Out

• Industry-leading quality ratings (NCQA, J.D. Power)

• Simplified experience with coordinated care and in-house providers

• Affordable HMO plans with a strong emphasis on preventive care

• Highly rated Medicare Advantage plans

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Top-rated care quality, excellent consumer satisfaction, coordinated in-house providers, strong ACA/Medicare/Medicaid options, and competitive pricing with many $0 premium plans.
• Cons: Limited to specific states; HMO access restrictions; no Short-Term Medical, Medigap, or standalone Part D plans.

Learn more in our latest Kaiser Permanente review.

Anthem: Best Customizable Medicare Advantage

Anthem, a major Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) affiliate, offers highly customizable Medicare Advantage and ACA Marketplace plans in several large states. Members can add benefits like dental, vision, hearing, OTC allowances, and transportation, making Anthem one of the best health insurance companies for personalization and value.

Why Anthem stands out

• Flexible Medicare Advantage plans with strong supplemental add-ons

• Good affordability for low-income and dual-eligible enrollees

• Strong behavioral health and telehealth support

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Plan customization and strong supplemental benefits that enhance value.

• Cons: Limited provider networks in some regions.

Learn more in our latest Anthem review.

WellCare: Best Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug and Special Needs Plans

WellCare is one of the top health insurance companies in the U.S. when it comes to government-sponsored insurance, especially for Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, and plans for low-income or dual-eligible individuals. I

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly insurer with wide Medicare reach and solid ancillary benefits, WellCare is definitely a company to consider.

Why WellCare stands out

Excels at serving older adults and dual-eligible individuals with value-driven Medicare Advantage and Part D options.

Pros/Cons

• Pro: Competitive drug coverage and specialized plans for complex health needs.
• Con: Lower customer service ratings than some larger carriers.

Learn more in our latest WellCare review.

UnitedHealthcare (UHC): Best Employer Plans with Global Access

UnitedHealthcare remains one of the top health insurance companies thanks to its massive provider network and industry-leading digital tools. UHC offers strong ACA plans, employer coverage, and high-quality Medicare Advantage plans, making it a strong fit for a wide range of consumers.

Why UnitedHealthcare Stands Out

• Largest provider network in the U.S.

• Highly rated telehealth and digital platforms (myUHC, Optum)

• Extensive national coverage

• Strong chronic condition support and wellness programs

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Expansive provider network and robust wellness/digital care tools.
• Cons: Higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs than some competitors.

Learn more in our latest UnitedHealthcare review.

Aetna: Best Medicare Advantage and Employer Plans

Aetna is one of the best health insurance providers for employer-sponsored coverage and is also known for strong Medicare Advantage offerings. It provides a balanced mix of affordability, solid benefits, and strong preventive care.

Why Aetna stands out

• Highly rated employer health plans

• Strong Medicare Advantage star ratings

• Comprehensive wellness programs

• Competitive pricing on ACA Marketplace plans

Pros/Cons

• Pros: CVS integration for simplified prescription access and wellness support.
• Cons: Limited availability in some rural areas.

Learn more in our latest Aetna review.

Oscar Health: Best Digital Experience

Oscar is widely considered one of the best tech-friendly health insurance companies, built around an intuitive digital experience, app-based care, and user-friendly plan design.

This tech-driven insurer offers ACA and Medicare Advantage plans in 18 states.

Why Oscar Stands Out

• Highly rated mobile app and care navigation tools

• Easy-to-understand plans

• Virtual-first care options

• Strong experience for younger adults, freelancers, and gig workers

Pros/Cons

• Pros: User-friendly digital platform and virtual-first care model earn high satisfaction.
• Cons: Smaller provider networks in some markets.

Learn more in our latest Oscar Health review.

Ambetter Health: Best ACA Marketplace Plan Value

Ambetter is a Centene brand focused on affordable ACA plans in 29 states, often with wellness incentives and chronic care benefits.

Why Ambetter Health Stands Out

Competitive pricing, low out-of-pocket costs, and rewards for wellness participation.

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Affordable premiums and wellness reward programs that promote preventive care.
• Cons: Customer support and claims resolution can be slow or inconsistent.

Learn more in our latest Ambetter review.

Molina Healthcare: Best Medicaid and Medicare Advantage D-SNP Plans

Molina Healthcare is one of the best affordable health insurance companies for people who qualify for subsidies or need Medicaid coverage. It offers competitive premiums, strong preventive care benefits, and solid Marketplace options across multiple states.

Why Molina Stands Out

• Very competitive ACA Marketplace pricing

• Strong Medicaid and CHIP integration

• Good preventive services at low or no cost

• Focused on underserved communities

Pros/Cons

• Pros: Strong Medicaid integration and culturally competent care.
• Cons: Narrower provider networks than national competitors.

 Learn more in our latest Molina Healthcare review.

Humana: Best Medicare-Focused Coverage

Humana is widely recognized as one of the best health insurance companies for seniors, offering high-quality Medicare Advantage plans with strong ratings. While Humana no longer sells ACA Marketplace plans, it continues to shine in Medicare categories, specializing in Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans in 48 states.

Why Humana Stands Out

• Industry-leading Medicare Advantage star ratings

• Strong dental, vision, and hearing benefits

• Good chronic condition management

• Affordable plan options

Pros/Cons

• Pro: Strong extras for Medicare Advantage, like dental, vision, and fitness benefits.
• Con: Higher copays for certain services compared to competitors.

Learn more in our latest Humana review.

Cigna: Best for International Employees and Digital Tools

Cigna stands out as one of the best health insurance companies for international travelers and expats. Its global network and strong customer support make it ideal for people who need coverage across borders.

Why Cigna Stands Out

• Global coverage in over 200 countries

• Strong preventive care and wellness benefits

• Reliable PPO options with large networks

• Well-rated employer and individual plans

Pros/Cons

• Pro: International coverage and highly rated virtual care experiences.
• Con: Limited ACA plan availability in select states.

Learn more in our latest Cigna review.

Methodolgy 

This 2026 roundup highlights top-rated health insurance companies/insurers offering plans in at least 15 states or nationwide, based on our in-depth carrier reviews. We evaluated each provider on coverage area, plan variety, benefits, network accessibility, affordability, customization, digital innovation, care quality, and consumer transparency.

Ratings provide insight into a company’s financial strength and its reputation with customers. To evaluate insurers’ financial strength ratings, we checked with credit rating provider AM Best. For insight into customer service, we looked to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA — a health plan accreditation company), the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), and rating company J.D. Power. We turned to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Complaint Index to understand customer complaints.

FAQs

When looking for health insurance coverage, check out the company’s background to get an idea of its priorities. Also, look at its financial and customer satisfaction ratings to see what others think of the insurer. Then make sure the company offers the type of coverage that you need.

How Should You Shop for Health Insurance?

When shopping for a health policy, there are several factors to consider. Your location matters, as health plan offerings differ by state and region. Also, think about how often you intend to use healthcare services. If you have a chronic condition and visit the doctor regularly, you’d likely need a different type of plan than if you only had preventive care appointments. Finally, look at the financial and customer satisfaction ratings to determine the strength of the insurer.

When Can You Buy Health Insurance?

Typically, you can buy a health insurance plan during the open enrollment period, which takes place in the fall, generally between November 1 and January 15. You may also be able to buy health insurance when you have a qualifying life event — for example, if you have a baby or get married, or get divorced.

How Does Health Insurance Work?

Health insurance works by allowing you to budget for medical expenses so you don’t have to pay the entire cost out of your own pocket if a medical emergency occurs. You (or your employer) have a set amount to pay either monthly or when you access services through health insurance, and the health insurer pays the rest for covered services. By knowing how much you would be responsible for when accessing health services, you can be more financially prepared when you need care.

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

Health insurance consists of several different costs. A health insurance premium is an amount you pay your insurance provider each month, whether you go to the doctor or not. A deductible is the amount you pay when you receive covered healthcare services before your insurance kicks in. High-deductible plans require you to pay a higher deductible than other types of plans. Coinsurance is a percentage of covered health services that you must pay for while the insurer pays the rest. A copayment is a set amount you pay for covered services once your deductible has been reached.

Health Plan Terms

• Coinsurance: Coinsurance is the amount you pay for covered healthcare after you pay your deductible. For example, if a company calls for 20% coinsurance on $100, you would pay $20 to the doctor, while the insurance company pays the other $80.
• Deductible: A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the health insurance company begins to cover claims.
• EPO: Exclusive provider organization, which allows you to choose your providers within a specific network. You can do so without choosing a primary care physician. However, you may not be able to use the insurance policy with out-of-network providers.
• HMO: Health maintenance organization, which is a managed care organization that negotiates with healthcare providers for lower prices. Often, HMOs restrict which providers you can use, while you may be assigned primary care doctors, as well as specialists.
• In-network: Providers who are part of your health insurance company’s network. These providers are cheaper because the providers agree to lower rates with your insurer.
• Out-of-network: Healthcare providers that aren’t in your insurance company’s network. You may have to pay more out of pocket if you go out-of-network, or the insurer may not cover any of your costs if you don’t choose an in-network provider.
• PPO: Preferred provider organization, which is a type of plan where you can choose your providers within a network. Usually need to choose a primary care physician. It offers a little more flexibility than an HMO, and you might still be able to see out-of-network providers (at a higher rate).

Bottom Line

These carriers deliver consistent access, digital tools, and coverage options across large parts of the U.S. For travelers, families, and professionals in multiple states, these are the top-rated health insurance companies to consider in 2026.

Need help comparing policies? Use HealthcareInsider’s tools to find the best match for your state and lifestyle.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthCareInsider.com or HealthCare, Inc.