Understanding San Diego Covered California Plans for 2026 and What They Mean for You
- Felipe Hernandez
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
Why This Matters
Choosing health insurance is one of the most important financial and healthcare decisions you’ll make. With premiums expected to increase in 2026, knowing your options in San Diego County can save you money and stress.
San Diego County, home to more than 3.3 million people, spans vibrant coastal towns, inland valleys, and a thriving border economy from Oceanside to San Ysidro.
Whether you’re new to Covered California or reviewing your plan, understanding the local marketplace helps you make the best choice.
Open enrollment for 2026 Covered California plans runs from November 1 2025 to January 31 2026. During this period you can sign up, switch plans or update your household information to maximize premium tax credits and state subsidies.
Premiums are expected to rise an average of 10.3 % statewide coveredca.com, partly due to inflation and federal subsidy uncertainty.
Six carriers will continue to offer individual and family plans through Covered California in Region 19 (San Diego) during 2026:
Health Insurance Companies | Type |
Anthem Blue Cross | HMO/EPO |
Blue Shield of California | PPO & HMO |
Health Net (Ambetter) | HMO & PPO |
Kaiser Permanente | HMO |
Molina Healthcare | HMO |
Sharp Health Plan | HMO |
Tip: Rates vary by metal tier (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum). Consider your expected medical use and premium‑tax‑credit eligibility when choosing a tier. If you qualify for cost‑sharing reductions (CSR), a Silver 73/87/94 plan may offer lower deductibles and co‑pays.
What are some of the Hospitals that you can use with your Covered California Plan?
UC San Diego Health
Sharp HealthCare
Scripps Hospitals
Kaiser Permanente
Palomar Health
Rady's Children Hospital
Confirm your doctor: Provider networks change regularly. Before enrolling, ask your current primary care physician or specialist which Covered California plans they accept.
Important Dates and Reminders for 2026
Open Enrollment: Nov 1 2025 – Jan 31 2026. Coverage purchased by Dec 15 typically begins Jan 1 2026. Enrollments completed between Jan 1st and Jan 31 begin Feb 1 2026.
Special Enrollment: Certain life events (loss of employer coverage, marriage, birth of a child, moving, etc.) qualify you for a 60‑day special enrollment period outside open enrollment.
Subsidies: If Congress does not extend federal premium tax credits, state subsidies may mitigate increases for those earning up to 150 %–165 % of the federal poverty level. Check your eligibility at CoveredCA.com.
We are licensed agents and can provide free, personalized help to make sure you choose the right plan for your needs.
Health insurance can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With multiple carriers and trusted hospitals in San Diego County, there are great options available. As licensed Covered California agents, we guide you step-by-step—at no cost to you—to find coverage that protects your health and budget.
👉 Call/Text us today to review your 2026 options with a local expert.
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