California runs its own health insurance marketplace, with its own enrollment window, its own premium help, and a state coverage requirement. Here’s what’s different and what it means for your household.
Quick answer: Covered California is California’s health insurance marketplace. Open enrollment for 2027 coverage runs November 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. Average premiums are rising 9.9% statewide, and California is adding $300 million in state premium help for lower-income households. California also requires most residents to have coverage or pay a state tax penalty.
California requires most residents to have qualifying health coverage or pay a penalty when they file state taxes.
For 2027, California is putting $300 million toward lower premiums for people with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level.
Open enrollment runs through January 31, longer than many states, and certain life events let you enroll any time of year.
| Topic | California detail | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Open enrollment | November 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027 | Enroll by December 31 for coverage starting January 1. |
| Average rate change | 9.9% statewide | The San Diego region averages 13.1%. What you pay depends on your plan and any premium help. |
| State premium help | Incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level | About $31,920 for an individual or $66,000 for a family of four. |
| Insurers | 12 statewide | Which ones are available depends on your rating region. |
Each city page covers local networks, hospitals, and the questions people there ask us most.
Don’t see your city? We help families across California by phone and video.
Open enrollment runs November 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. Sign up by December 31 for coverage that starts January 1. If you’re already enrolled, you can renew or switch plans starting in October.
Yes. California requires most residents to have qualifying coverage for every month of the year. If you go without coverage and don’t qualify for an exemption, the penalty is assessed when you file your state tax return.
California is providing $300 million in state premium assistance for 2027 for enrollees with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Covered California expects it to help more than 500,000 people, and some may qualify for Silver plans with no monthly premium.
Covered California reported a 9.9% average increase for 2027, reflecting rising medical costs and the end of expanded federal premium tax credits. Many enrollees will still pay less than the full price because of federal and state premium help.
Possibly. Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, and adults with incomes up to about 138% of the federal poverty level generally qualify. The Covered California application checks for Medi-Cal eligibility automatically.
One of our licensed agents compares Covered California plans with your doctors, prescriptions, and household income, then lays out the options.
