Arizona Health Insurance Guide

Health Insurance Overview in Arizona

Arizona expanded Medicaid (AHCCCS — Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) in 2013, one of the earlier expansion states. Arizona uses the federal marketplace and has seen significant insurer competition in its metro areas, keeping premiums relatively competitive. Rural Arizona has more limited insurer options.

Average Health Insurance Costs in Arizona

Marketplace Enrollment in Arizona

Arizona residents can enroll in individual and family health insurance plans through HealthCare.gov (Federal). Open enrollment runs November 1 – January 15 (federal marketplace).

Average Premiums by City in Arizona

Medicaid in Arizona

AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) has been expanded to cover adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Arizona's program uses managed care organizations for most enrollees.

Children's Health Insurance (CHIP) in Arizona

KidsCare covers children under 19 in families with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level.

What Makes Arizona Unique

Arizona's Medicaid program (AHCCCS) is one of the oldest managed care Medicaid programs in the nation, having operated since 1982. AHCCCS uses managed care organizations rather than traditional fee-for-service, which has generally produced efficient cost management. Arizona's experience with Medicaid managed care has influenced other states' program designs.

ACA Subsidies: What Arizona Residents Should Know

The enhanced subsidies first enacted in the American Rescue Plan expired at the end of 2025. For 2026, premium tax credits follow the original ACA rules: there is no credit above 400% (the “subsidy cliff”), and enrollees are expected to pay up to 9.96% of income toward the benchmark Silver plan. House in January 2026 but has not become law, so 2027 plans are being priced and subsidized under the same rules unless Congress acts.

Arizona’s Marketplace for 2027: Insurers, Rates, and Dates

Arizona residents enroll through HealthCare.gov. Full-price premiums rose about 46.3% on average for 2026, before subsidies. 7 insurers sold plans for 2026; Cigna is leaving for 2027, so its enrollees need to choose a new plan. Proposed 2027 changes average about 29% before subsidies.

About 357,000 people enrolled for 2026. About 83% received premium tax credits, and the average net premium after credits was about $229 a month.

Open enrollment for 2027: November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027 on HealthCare.gov; enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.

What’s Different About Health Coverage in Arizona

Arizona had one of the largest full-price increases in the country for 2026, about 46%, after Aetna left at the end of 2025 and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona dropped its PPO plans in favor of HMOs only. Cigna is exiting for 2027. Arizona offers no state subsidy on top of federal credits, so anyone above 400% FPL is exposed to the full increase.

Tips for Choosing Health Insurance in Arizona

Arizona residents in metro Phoenix and Tucson benefit from competitive insurer options on HealthCare.gov. AHCCCS Medicaid is available for low-income residents. Rural Arizona residents may have fewer plan options — comparing all available plans carefully is important. Short-term plans are available but lack ACA protections.

• Enroll during open enrollment (November 1 – January 15 (federal marketplace)) — missing the deadline means waiting until the next open enrollment unless you have a qualifying life event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which insurers are leaving the Arizona marketplace for 2027?

Cigna is leaving for 2027. Enrollees with that insurer should choose a new plan during open enrollment; an automatic replacement may have a different network or drug list.

When is open enrollment in Arizona for 2027?

November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027 on HealthCare.gov; enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.

How much do Arizona marketplace enrollees pay after subsidies?

In 2026 about 83% of Arizona enrollees received premium tax credits, and the average net premium was about $229 a month. There is no credit above 400% of the federal poverty level.

The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects estimated industry averages and program eligibility rules as of 2026. Health insurance premiums, Medicaid eligibility thresholds, marketplace options, and program rules change annually. Always verify current eligibility and enrollment options at the official HealthCare.gov (Federal) or by contacting a certified navigator or broker. Premium figures shown are approximations before subsidies — actual net premiums depend on individual income, household size, and plan selection.