Maryland Health Insurance Guide

Health Insurance Overview in Maryland

Maryland operates Maryland Health Connection, a state-based marketplace. Maryland expanded Medicaid in 2014 and has implemented a reinsurance program that has significantly reduced marketplace premiums — Maryland has seen some of the largest premium reductions from reinsurance in the nation. Maryland has strong consumer assistance programs.

Average Health Insurance Costs in Maryland

Marketplace Enrollment in Maryland

Maryland residents can enroll in individual and family health insurance plans through Maryland Health Connection (State-Based). Open enrollment runs November 1 – December 31 (Maryland Health Connection).

Average Premiums by City in Maryland

Medicaid in Maryland

Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) covers adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Maryland has expanded to cover certain additional populations.

Children's Health Insurance (CHIP) in Maryland

Maryland Children's Health Program covers children up to 322% of the federal poverty level.

What Makes Maryland Unique

Maryland's reinsurance program — implemented in 2019 — has been one of the most successful in the nation at reducing marketplace premiums, achieving premium reductions of approximately 30% compared to pre-reinsurance rates. Maryland's program is frequently cited as a model for other states considering reinsurance.

ACA Subsidies: What Maryland 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.

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

Maryland residents enroll through Maryland Health Connection. Full-price premiums rose about 13.4% on average for 2026, before subsidies. 5 insurers sold plans for 2026. Proposed 2027 changes average about 13.7% before subsidies.

About 256,000 people enrolled for 2026. About 67% received premium tax credits, and the average net premium after credits was about $181 a month.

Open enrollment for 2027: November 1 through December 31, 2026.

What’s Different About Health Coverage in Maryland

Maryland has the most extensive state subsidy structure outside New England. Its state premium assistance was expanded to all ages up to 400% FPL, and the young adult subsidy (ages 18–37) was made permanent. Reinsurance, in place since 2019 and approved through 2028, keeps full-price premiums lower. Maryland’s Easy Enrollment lets uninsured residents start enrollment by checking a box on their state tax return, and pregnancy is a qualifying event. Note the shorter window: enrollment for 2027 closes December 31.

Tips for Choosing Health Insurance in Maryland

Maryland residents should enroll through Maryland Health Connection to access state-specific benefits and Maryland's reinsurance-reduced premiums. Medicaid (HealthChoice) covers low-income adults. Maryland's reinsurance program has made marketplace plans more affordable than in many comparable states.

• Enroll during open enrollment (November 1 – December 31 (Maryland Health Connection)) — missing the deadline means waiting until the next open enrollment unless you have a qualifying life event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many insurers sell marketplace plans in Maryland?

Five insurers sold Maryland marketplace plans for 2026, with proposed 2027 changes averaging about 13.7% before subsidies.

When is open enrollment in Maryland for 2027?

November 1 through December 31, 2026.

How much do Maryland marketplace enrollees pay after subsidies?

In 2026 about 67% of Maryland enrollees received premium tax credits, and the average net premium was about $181 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 Maryland Health Connection (State-Based) 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.