10 Best Health Insurance Companies in the USA

Finding the best health insurance companies in the USA is crucial for individuals and families seeking reliable coverage and peace of mind. The U.S. health insurance market is dominated by major health insurance companies that offer a range of plans across different states. In this comprehensive guide, we highlight the top 10 providers, from nationwide giants to highly rated regional players, based on coverage options, customer satisfaction, financial strength, and innovation. These top health insurance companies have proven track records in protecting Americans’ health and finances. Each health care insurance company on our list brings unique strengths, whether it’s an expansive provider network, affordable premiums, or specialized plans for specific needs. Read on to see why these 10 stand out as the best health insurance companies in the USA in 2025.

Illustration: A family under an umbrella represents how the best health insurance companies provide financial protection and peace of mind. Health insurance acts as a safety net, shielding individuals from high medical costs and ensuring access to quality care.

1. UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

UnitedHealthcare is the largest health insurer in the nation by membership and revenue. As part of UnitedHealth Group, UHC serves over 47 million members across all 50 . It’s consistently ranked among the best health insurance companies due to its extensive network of doctors and hospitals and diverse plan offerings. UHC provides employer sponsored insurance, individual and family plans, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid through partnerships, and even global coverage for expats. Customers benefit from digital tools like the easy to use Health4Me app and online portal and wellness programs that reward healthy living. UnitedHealthcare’s scale also means a broad choice of in network providers nationwide, which is a big plus for families or professionals who may move or travel.

Why UHC stands out: UHC combines the resources of one of the biggest health insurance companies with innovative health management programs. It has invested in virtual care and mobile apps to help members manage benefits and find care easily. However, being the largest health insurance company, UHC sometimes comes with slightly higher premiums than regional . Even so, its financial strength A+ rated by AM Best and ability to offer comprehensive coverage make it one of the top rated health insurance companies for reliability. If you want nationwide access to healthcare providers and robust plan options, UnitedHealthcare is a top .

2. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is often cited as the best health insurance company for customer satisfaction and quality. Kaiser is a unique non profit health insurance company that also operates its own hospitals and clinics, creating an integrated healthcare system. Serving about 12.6 million members in 8 states and D.C., Kaiser has been rated the No.1 health insurer in the nation for five years running according to consumer surveyabout.kaiserpermanente.org. In 2025, Kaiser Permanente tied for the top spot with UHC, each earning 4.17 out of 5 stars in overall performanceabout.kaiserpermanente.org. Members report high satisfaction with Kaiser’s affordability, preventative care, and ease of service.

Kaiser’s model means that when you enroll, you typically receive care within Kaiser’s own network of doctors and facilities a setup that streamlines coordination of care. This “under one roof” approach leads to excellent preventive care and chronic disease management outcomes. Kaiser offers a range of HMO plans for individuals, families, and employer groups, as well as highly rated Medicare Advantage plans.

Why Kaiser Permanente stands out: Kaiser is widely regarded as one of the top health insurance companies for quality of care. NCQA (National Committee for Quality Assurance) consistently gives Kaiser plans some of the highest ratings in the . Because it’s an integrated system, there’s a strong emphasis on preventive health, wellness programs, and convenient digital access the Kaiser app allows scheduling, telehealth visits, and prescription refills. The main limitation is geographic Kaiser operates in select regions e.g. California, Pacific Northwest, Mid Atlantic states. If you live in one of Kaiser’s service areas, you’ll be accessing one of the best health insurance companies in terms of value and member experience.

3. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Network

Blue Cross Blue Shield isn’t a single company but rather a federation of 33 independent regional insurers that collectively cover all 50 states. Together, the BCBS system insures about 115 million Americans , making it the broadest coverage network in the country. Major BCBS insurers include Anthem rebranded as Elevance Health, which alone serves over 45 million members in 14 , as well as large nonprofits like Health Care Service Corp operating Blue Cross plans in IL, TX, OK, NM, MT and Highmark . Thanks to this nationwide reach, BCBS plans are often the most widely accepted health insurance by doctors and hospitals. If you move or travel, Blue Cross Blue Shield’s BlueCard program enables seamless access to care across state lines.

All BCBS companies offer a variety of plan types (HMO, PPO, EPO) for employer groups, individuals including ACA marketplace plans, and government programs Medicare and Medicaid managed care. The BCBS brand is known for stability and broad provider choice. However, because each state’s Blue Cross Blue Shield is a separate entity, benefits and customer service can vary between regions . Some BCBS affiliates are for profit like Anthem/Elevance while others are nonprofit or member owned, which leads to differences in plan pricing and surplus reinvestment.

Why BCBS stands out: BCBS is considered one of the “good health insurance companies” for nationwide coverage, especially for those who want a large network of doctors. It is often recommended for multi state families or anyone who values flexibility in where they get . Blue Cross Blue Shield plans generally have strong financial ratings and deep roots in their communities many have been operating for decades. While service quality can depend on your local BCBS company, the network’s sheer size and partnerships over 90% of hospitals contract with BCBS secure its place among the best health insurance companies in the USA.

4. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna is a health insurance company under the CVS Health umbrella, combining insurance with the resources of one of the nation’s biggest pharmacy chains. Aetna provides a wide range of plans including employer based coverage, individual ACA marketplace plans in many states, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D drug plans, and Medicaid in some areas. With a membership of roughly 24 million , Aetna is one of the major health insurance companies in the country. Its acquisition by CVS Health has enhanced its focus on integrated care: members can conveniently use MinuteClinic walk in clinics at CVS pharmacies, and there are programs that coordinate medical care with pharmacy benefits.

Aetna’s plans are known for solid coverage and added wellness perks. For example, many Aetna plans offer gym membership discounts, 24/7 telemedicine, and care management for chronic conditions. They also often rank well for member satisfaction in Medicare Advantage. In terms of provider network, Aetna is national – it has a vast network of doctors and specialists, though not quite as expansive in every region as Blue Cross or UHC. Still, as part of CVS, Aetna is heavily investing in community health hubs (CVS HealthHUB locations) and digital tools to simplify the customer experience.

Why Aetna stands out: Aetna is frequently counted among the best health insurance companies because of its combination of broad coverage and convenience. Having CVS Health behind it means policyholders enjoy integration of medical, pharmacy, and even retail health needs. The company’s strong financial footing assures stability. Aetna’s focus on preventive care and wellness , such as free screenings and rewards programs , makes it a good health insurance company for health conscious consumers. Whether you get insurance through your employer or buy your own plan, Aetna offers comprehensive options with a focus on simplicity and value.

5. Cigna Healthcare

Cigna is a global health insurance provider and one of the top health insurance companies in the U.S. by membership. It covers about 18 million Americans and also serves expatriates and international clients. Cigna is particularly known for its extensive employer sponsored plans including many Fortune 500 companies as clients and its worldwide network of doctors, which is handy for travelers and those who need coverage abroad. Cigna’s U.S. plans span employer group insurance, individual/family plans in select states, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, dental and vision plans, among others.

Cigna places a strong emphasis on digital healthcare and customer experience. The insurer offers a highly rated mobile app and 24/7 customer support. It was an early adopter of telehealth, providing virtual medical and mental health visits through its MDLIVE partnership and later acquisition. Cigna also tends to have lower than average complaint ratios, indicating solid customer satisfaction. Many of Cigna’s plans come with wellness incentives, such as cash rewards for completing health assessments or programs to manage diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Why Cigna stands out: If you are looking for a health insurance company that combines a large provider network with top notch digital tools, Cigna is a great contender. It’s one of the top rated health insurance companies for employers and is also competitive in the Medicare Advantage market Cigna’s MA plans get strong star ratings. Cigna’s global reach means policyholders have access to care virtually anywhere an important factor for international business travelers or remote workers. While Cigna’s individual market presence is smaller than some rivals, it remains a major health insurance company with a reputation for quality service and comprehensive coverage.

6. Humana

Humana is well known as a health insurance company specializing in Medicare and senior focused healthcare, though it also offers some individual and employer plans. Humana serves about 17 million and has a strong footprint nationwide, particularly with its Medicare Advantage plans Humana is one of the largest Medicare Advantage insurers in the country. For those 65+ or those planning for retirement coverage, Humana is often mentioned among the best health insurance companies because of its expansive Medicare plan choices and added benefits. Many Humana Medicare Advantage plans include extras like dental, vision, hearing, over the counter allowances, and fitness program memberships SilverSneakers, providing excellent value to seniors.

In the employer insurance space, Humana offers wellness oriented group health plans and is known for piloting innovative care models for instance, teaming up with Walmart for low cost prescription access. Humana has also invested in primary care clinics and home health services, aligning with its mission to improve health outcomes for aging populations. Customer service is a highlight Humana frequently earns high ratings in J.D. Power and other surveys for member satisfaction, especially in its Medicare . It was also tied for the lowest customer complaint index in some analyses, indicating fewer issues relative to its .

Why Humana stands out: Humana’s focus on affordability and preventive care makes it one of the top health insurance companies for those who want more than basic coverage. Its plans often feature care management for chronic conditions, free health coaching, and robust provider networks including many specialists important to senior care. While Humana has announced it will be phasing out most of its employer insurance plans to concentrate on government programs by 2024-2025 a strategic shift to focus on Medicare, Medicaid, and specialty plans, it remains a powerhouse in the Medicare arena. For anyone eligible for Medicare or seeking a plan that emphasizes whole person health, Humana is a top rated health insurance company to consider.

7. Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation might not be a household name, but it’s the parent company behind Ambetter and WellCare, which are prominent brands in the ACA marketplace and Medicare markets, respectively. Centene is actually the No. 3 insurer in the U.S. by membership, covering about 25 million . It is the largest Medicaid managed care provider in the country, partnering with many states to offer Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) . Under the Ambetter brand, Centene offers Affordable Care Act marketplace plans in a wide range of states Ambetter plans are known for being budget friendly, often with low premiums and rich benefits like adult dental or vision add ons. Under the WellCare brand which Centene acquired, it provides Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, focusing on affordable options for seniors.

Centene’s strength lies in serving underserved populations. Their plans often cater to lower income individuals, families, and those who qualify for government subsidies. Despite operating behind different brand names, Centene emphasizes community health programs, care coordination, and improving access to preventive services. For example, many Ambetter plans include perks like a rewards program for getting annual checkups or taking healthy . WellCare plans typically offer enhanced benefits for chronic disease management and care management for complex health needs.

Why Centene stands out: Centene is a major health insurance company to consider if you are shopping on the Health Insurance Marketplace or qualify for Medicaid/Medicare and want an affordable plan. In terms of sheer size, it’s one of the big health insurance companies shaping the industry (over $100 billion in annual ). While its customer service ratings can be mixed some of its state specific plans have higher complaint indices, Centene’s focus on cost effective coverage fills an important niche. For many consumers, especially those looking for value in health insurance, Centene’s Ambetter plans provide comprehensive benefits at lower costs than some competitors. Its presence on the marketplace also keeps competition strong, which can help keep premiums in check. Overall, Centene’s inclusion in the 10 best health insurance companies list reflects its impact and the value of its offerings for millions of Americans.

8. Molina Healthcare

Molina Healthcare is another insurer focused on affordable coverage, primarily through Medicaid and Medicare programs. Molina started as a family owned provider and has grown to cover about 5.2 million members across 19 . Molina’s core business is managing Medicaid plans for low income individuals and families, and it also offers ACA marketplace plans in many states as well as Medicare Advantage especially Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans for those qualifying for both Medicare and Medicaid. Because of its target population, Molina emphasizes preventive care, community clinics, and multilingual support, ensuring that underserved communities get access to needed health services. In 2025 rankings, Molina was recognized as “Best for Price/Affordability” and “Best for Policy Offerings” among health , underscoring its value oriented approach.

Molina’s marketplace plans often have competitive premiums and relatively low deductibles, and they frequently include services like telehealth and free transportation to medical appointments for members. While provider networks might be more limited compared to larger commercial insurers, Molina collaborates closely with local healthcare providers and safety net hospitals. This model allows Molina to tailor its plans to community needs effectively. Financially, Molina is stable and has been expanding by entering new states and acquiring other Medicaid insurers, reflecting confidence in its growth.

Why Molina stands out: Molina is one of the top health insurance companies for individuals and families seeking affordable health coverage, especially if you qualify for financial assistance. It consistently ranks well in Medicaid quality measures and often outperforms larger insurers in managing preventive care visits and immunizations for children. Molina’s customer satisfaction scores are decent, in fact, it had one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings (4.24 out of 5) in the . If you are looking for a good health insurance company that won’t break the bank and you don’t mind a somewhat more regional network, Molina is a strong contender. It proves that good health insurance companies are not just the biggest names, but also those that truly serve their members’ needs at a reasonable cost.

9. Oscar Health

Oscar Health is a newer player compared to others on this list, but it has quickly gained attention as a tech driven health insurance company targeting individuals, families, and small businesses. Launched in 2012, Oscar now serves over 1 million members in 20+ , focusing primarily on ACA marketplace plans and a few Medicare Advantage plans. Oscar’s reputation is built on its user friendly digital experience, each member gets a mobile app with 24/7 telemedicine (at $0 cost), straightforward plan information, and a personalized concierge team to assist with finding care. This modern approach appeals to younger consumers and anyone frustrated with traditional insurance bureaucracy.

Oscar offers mostly EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) plans, which means you have a network of providers to use with no out of network coverage except emergencies. They design their networks to balance cost and quality, often partnering with specific health systems in each city to create “Circle Plus” networks. One of Oscar’s standout features is its health incentive program: members can earn rewards like Amazon gift cards for hitting step goals tracked via their Fitbit or Apple Health app. This kind of gamification of wellness is relatively unique among insurers. Oscar’s plans tend to be competitively priced on the exchanges, and the company is transparent about claims and plan usage data to continually improve the customer experience.

Why Oscar Health stands out: Oscar epitomizes the new wave of insurtech and has become one of the top health insurance companies in terms of innovation. It might not have the decades of legacy or the massive membership of the biggest health insurance companies, but Oscar’s focus on simplicity, clear communication, and technology earns it a spot among the 10 best health insurance companies today. For tech savvy individuals or families especially those buying their own insurance Oscar can be a refreshing alternative to bigger carriers. Do note that Oscar’s provider networks are narrower and its availability is limited to certain states and counties. But if it’s in your area, Oscar Health is worth considering for its smooth digital enrollment, free virtual visits, and a generally more consumer friendly insurance experience.

10. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

Highmark is a regional Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliate that deserves mention for its excellent reputation in the areas it serves mainly Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Delaware. Covering about 6.5 million , Highmark is one of the largest Blue Cross nonprofits and consistently earns high marks in customer satisfaction. In 2025 rankings, Highmark was rated the “Most Likely to Be Recommended to Others” by its , reflecting strong loyalty and trust. Highmark offers a full suite of plans: employer group insurance, ACA individual plans, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid plans through its Allegheny Health Network and Gateway Health partnerships.

What sets Highmark apart is its integrated approach in western Pennsylvania, it not only provides insurance but also owns the Allegheny Health Network of hospitals and clinics. This integration similar in spirit to Kaiser Permanente’s model allows Highmark to focus on coordinated, value based care for its members. For example, Highmark has programs that align incentives between the insurer and providers to keep patients healthy and out of the hospital. As a result, Highmark’s plans often emphasize preventive services and disease management programs. Highmark is also financially solid and invests back into community health initiatives as a nonprofit.

Why Highmark stands out: Highmark exemplifies how a regional insurer can compete with national firms by excelling in quality and service. If you live in Highmark’s service area, you’re likely to find that it’s one of the best health insurance companies available in terms of customer care and coverage options. It boasts one of the highest customer satisfaction scores among health insurers, with a particularly low complaint index signaling happy customers . Highmark’s Blue Cross Blue Shield backing also means you get access to the broad BCBS network when traveling. For those in its region, Highmark offers the stability of a major insurer with the personalized touch of a local company a combination that rightly earns it a spot in the top 10.

Summary Table: 10 Best Health Insurance Companies in the USA (2025)

Rank	Health Insurance Company	Key Strengths	Best For	Coverage Area
1.	UnitedHealthcare (UHC)	Largest network, strong digital tools, nationwide access	Families, frequent travelers, broad provider choice	All 50 states
2.	Kaiser Permanente	Highest customer satisfaction, integrated care, top preventive health	People in Kaiser regions wanting coordinated care	8 states + D.C.
3.	Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)	Widest national provider acceptance, strong financial stability	Multi-state families, nationwide coverage needs	Nationwide (33 regional companies)
4.	Aetna (CVS Health)	Integrated with CVS, strong wellness benefits, diverse plans	Individuals, families, Medicare Advantage	Nationwide
5.	Cigna Healthcare	Excellent digital services, global network, low complaints	Employers, international travelers, Medicare	Nationwide + Global
6.	Humana	Best for Medicare, strong senior benefits, high satisfaction	Seniors, retirees, Medicare Advantage users	Nationwide
7.	Centene (Ambetter / WellCare)	Budget-friendly ACA plans, strong Medicaid & Medicare options	Low-income families, seniors, subsidy users	Many states
8.	Molina Healthcare	Affordable marketplace plans, great for Medicaid/Medicare	Low-income households, families seeking value	19 states
9.	Oscar Health	Tech-driven, free virtual care, modern/UI-friendly platform	Young adults, digital-first users, ACA shoppers	20+ states
10.	Highmark BCBS	Top regional satisfaction, integrated hospital network	Residents of PA, WV, DE; strong local care	Regional (PA, WV, DE)

Final Health: Choosing the Right Health Insurer

Selecting the best health insurance company comes down to your unique needs and preferences. All 10 best health insurance companies listed above are financially strong and offer a range of plans, but there’s no one size fits all answer. If you prioritize a massive provider network and worldwide coverage, a giant like UnitedHealthcare or Blue Cross Blue Shield might be ideal. If top tier customer service and integrated care are your main concerns, Kaiser Permanente or Highmark could be the best fit. For those seeking affordability, especially with government subsidized plans, companies like Molina or Centene shine as good health insurance companies that deliver value. Tech enthusiasts or younger consumers might lean towards innovative options like Oscar Health for a more modern experience.

Before making a decision, compare plan benefits, premiums, and provider networks. Check if your preferred doctors and hospitals accept the insurance. Consider what types of plans (HMO, PPO, EPO) each health insurance company offers and whether you need extras like international coverage or extensive drug benefits. It’s also wise to read reviews or quality ratings: for example, NCQA scores, J.D. Power rankings, and state insurance report cards can provide insight into how well an insurer serves its members. Keep in mind that the largest health insurance companies by market share aren’t always the highest rated , sometimes smaller regional plans can offer a better experience.

In 2025, the health insurance industry is highly competitive, and that’s good news for consumers. It means you have strong choices among these top health insurance companies. All of the insurers on our list have earned their reputation through solid coverage and customer trust. To make the most of your benefits, stay informed and take advantage of wellness programs or preventive services your plan provides. And remember, the “best” insurer is ultimately the one that meets your health needs, fits your budget, and gives you confidence that your health is protected.

References

1. UnitedHealth Group – Annual Reports & Membership Data
2. Kaiser Permanente – NCQA Ratings & Consumer Satisfaction Reports
3. Blue Cross Blue Shield Association – Coverage & Network Information
4. Aetna (CVS Health) – Company Filings & Medicare Star Ratings
5. Cigna Healthcare – Membership Data & J.D. Power Satisfaction Studies
6. Humana – Medicare Advantage Performance & Customer Satisfaction Reports
7. Centene Corporation – Marketplace & Medicaid Enrollment Reports
8. Molina Healthcare – ACA Marketplace Ratings & Medicaid Quality Scores
9. Oscar Health – Company Overview, Digital Tools & ACA Expansion Data
10. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield – Customer Satisfaction & Regional Performance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for 10 Best Health Insurance Companies in the USA