Texas Health Insurance Rates Surge: Average Monthly Premiums Rise 35% On Customers

The Texas Tribune reports that, starting November 1, average premiums for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are projected to rise by 35.2% in Texas due to insurers reacting to increasing costs and the potential expiration of premium tax credits. This hike in premiums will significantly impact Texans, particularly as it surpasses increases in all but five states. For 2025, a benchmark monthly premium for a 40-year-old is expected to average $489 before tax credits, while in 2026, Texas insurers average $661 for these plans—the steepest increase since 2018.Moreover, enrollees between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty limit could face substantial premium contributions, should the tax credits lapse. It is anticipated that over a million Texans might forgo their health coverage due to these rising costs, significantly altering the landscape of ACA enrollment in the state.