Why the price ranges so much
Short term health insurance is priced by each carrier on its own scale, so the ranges below cover what most US applicants see rather than one fixed rate. Your actual cost depends on the plan level you pick, where you live, and which carrier prices your application. Enter your age and ZIP code in the calculator above for a closer figure, then request a written quote before you decide.
Average short term health insurance cost
| Age band | Monthly premium (US) |
| Under 30 | $60 - $120 / mo |
| 30-44 | $80 - $200 / mo |
| 45-54 | $130 - $280 / mo |
| 55-64 | $180 - $400 / mo |
| Family plan | $250 - $600 / mo |
What people ask about short term health insurance
How much does short term health insurance cost?
Premiums commonly run $80 to $200 a month for an individual, less for the young and more for older applicants.
What does short term health insurance cover?
It covers unexpected illnesses and injuries but typically excludes pre-existing conditions and may skip preventive care, maternity, and mental health.
Is short term health insurance worth it?
It is a budget bridge between jobs or coverage, but it is not ACA-compliant and offers fewer protections than a marketplace plan.
How long can short term coverage last?
It varies by state, from a few months up to about 364 days, sometimes renewable.
Does it cover pre-existing conditions?
Usually not, which is the main trade-off for the lower price.
How much is short-term health insurance per month?
Short-term health insurance typically costs between $50 and $300 per month for an individual, depending on age, location, deductible, and coverage limits. Premiums are lower than ACA plans but so are the benefits, since short-term plans can exclude pre-existing conditions and have annual caps. These plans are designed to fill temporary coverage gaps rather than serve as a long-term solution. Comparing quotes through a broker or online marketplace helps you find the most competitive rate.
What changes your premium
- Age is the biggest driver: older applicants pay significantly more, since short term plans can price by age without the limits that apply to ACA marketplace coverage.
- Plan level and deductible choice both affect the premium. More coverage and lower deductibles cost more per month.
- Coverage length ranges from one month up to about a year, depending on your state.
- Health history matters. Short term plans use medical underwriting and may decline or exclude pre-existing conditions.
- State rules vary widely. Some states restrict these plans to short terms; others ban them entirely.
- Tobacco use typically adds a surcharge.
Go deeper on one topic
Turn the range into a real number
The calculator above gives you a planning range built from published market pricing. A carrier still needs your exact age, ZIP, and plan choice before it can quote a firm monthly rate, so treat the number above as a starting point rather than a final one.
Get a firm number before you buy
A licensed carrier prices your exact plan and state. There is no obligation to purchase.Show me pricing
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