Covered California Health Plans in Orange County: 2026 Guide

Why This Matters

Choosing health insurance is one of the most important financial and healthcare decisions you’ll make. With premiums projected to rise in 2026, knowing your options in Orange County can save you money and stress.

Orange County combines vibrant coastal communities, dense suburban areas, and a robust healthcare system. Whether you’re new to Covered California or reviewing your current plan, understanding the local marketplace gives you an edge.

Key Enrollment Dates

• Open Enrollment: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026

  • Apply by December 15 for coverage starting January 1, 2026

  • Apply between January 1–31 for coverage starting February 1, 2026

• Special Enrollment: Qualifying life events (loss of job-based coverage, marriage, birth, moving, etc.) allow a 60-day window outside open enrollment.

What’s New in 2026

• Statewide premium increase: ~10.3% on average, due to inflation and subsidy uncertainty.

• HDHP expansion: In 2026, Bronze and Minimum Coverage (catastrophic) plans will qualify as High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP), making them eligible for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

  
  

Which Insurance Companies Serve Orange County?

Carriers and networks can change, but these major insurers are expected to continue offering plans through Covered California in Orange County:

• Anthem Blue Cross (HMO)

• Blue Shield of California (HMO/PPO)

• Health Net (HMO/PPO)

• Kaiser Permanente

• Molina Healthcare

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💡 Tip: Metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) affect both premiums and out-of-pocket costs. If you qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR), a Silver 73/87/94 plan may provide lower deductibles and co-pays.

Key Hospitals and Health Systems in Orange County

• Hoag Health Network (Newport Beach, Irvine)

• UCI Health (including UCI Health – Placentia and UCI Health – Fountain Valley)

• MemorialCare Health System (Long Beach, Fountain Valley, Saddleback)

• Kaiser Permanente Orange County (Anaheim, Irvine)

• Fountain Valley Regional Medical Center

• Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC)

⚠️ Reminder: Provider networks change frequently. Always confirm with your doctor or hospital before enrolling in a plan.

Important Reminders

Check your subsidy eligibility at CoveredCA.com

Shop by both premium and network—don’t assume the lowest monthly cost will include your preferred doctors or hospitals

We are licensed agents and can provide free, personalized help to review your options and maximize your benefits

Final Thought

Health insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With multiple carriers and world-class hospitals in Orange County, you have strong options to choose from. As licensed Covered California agents, we can walk you through the process—at no cost to you—to find coverage that protects your health and your budget.

👉 Call or text us today to review your 2026 options with a local expert.