Minnesota Health Insurance Guide

Health Insurance Overview in Minnesota

Minnesota operates MNsure, a state-based marketplace. Minnesota expanded Medicaid (Medical Assistance / MinnesotaCare) in 2014 and has one of the most comprehensive coverage landscapes in the nation. Minnesota has implemented a reinsurance program and has historically been a leader in managed care innovation. MinnesotaCare is a state-funded subsidized coverage program for those above Medicaid eligibility.

Average Health Insurance Costs in Minnesota

Marketplace Enrollment in Minnesota

Minnesota residents can enroll in individual and family health insurance plans through MNsure (State-Based). Open enrollment runs November 1 – January 15 (MNsure).

Average Premiums by City in Minnesota

Medicaid in Minnesota

Medical Assistance (Minnesota Medicaid) covers adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. MinnesotaCare provides subsidized coverage for incomes up to 200% FPL.

Children's Health Insurance (CHIP) in Minnesota

Minnesota's CHIP is integrated into Medical Assistance, covering children up to 275% of the federal poverty level.

What Makes Minnesota Unique

MinnesotaCare is a unique Minnesota program — a state-subsidized coverage option for residents with incomes between Medicaid eligibility and 200% of the federal poverty level that predates the ACA. Minnesota's long history of healthcare coverage innovation and strong managed care infrastructure has produced one of the lowest uninsured rates in the nation.

ACA Subsidies: What Minnesota 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.

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

Minnesota residents enroll through MNsure. Full-price premiums rose about 22% on average for 2026, before subsidies. 6 insurers sold plans for 2026; for 2027, UCare (acquired by Medica) is leaving and Aspirus Health Plan is entering. Proposed 2027 changes average about 17.7% before subsidies.

About 139,000 people enrolled for 2026. About 50% received premium tax credits, and the average net premium after credits was about $437 a month.

What’s Different About Health Coverage in Minnesota

Minnesota is one of two states with a Basic Health Program: MinnesotaCare covers residents up to 200% FPL at little or no premium. That’s why only about half of MNsure enrollees receive tax credits and the average net premium (about $437) looks high — the lowest-income people are in MinnesotaCare instead. Minnesota’s reinsurance waiver is approved only through 2027, so unsubsidized premiums could rise further after that.

Tips for Choosing Health Insurance in Minnesota

Minnesota residents should enroll through MNsure for access to state-specific programs including MinnesotaCare. Medical Assistance covers low-income adults. Minnesota's reinsurance program has helped stabilize marketplace premiums. MinnesotaCare provides a unique subsidized option for those between Medicaid and marketplace subsidy eligibility.

• Enroll during open enrollment (November 1 – January 15 (MNsure)) — 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 Minnesota marketplace for 2027?

UCare (acquired by Medica) 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.

How much do Minnesota marketplace enrollees pay after subsidies?

In 2026 about 50% of Minnesota enrollees received premium tax credits, and the average net premium was about $437 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 MNsure (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.