Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Short-Term Health Insurance Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Short-Term Plan (monthly) | $0 – $0 | $100 – $250 |
| Family Short-Term Plan (monthly) | $0 – $0 | $200 – $400 |
What Affects the Cost
- Your age, location, and health status
- Coverage level and deductible chosen
- Provider or carrier
- Claims history
- Credit score (for some insurance types)
- Discounts available (bundling, loyalty, safe driver, etc.)
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Short-term health insurance provides temporary coverage for gaps between plans. It has lower premiums but limited benefits and may exclude pre-existing conditions.
Insurance costs vary widely based on coverage level, location, age, and claims history. Shopping around and comparing quotes is the single most effective way to save money on insurance premiums.
How to Save Money
- Compare quotes from at least 3-5 providers
- Bundle policies (home + auto) for 10-25% discounts
- Choose higher deductibles for lower monthly premiums
- Ask about all available discounts
- Review coverage annually during open enrollment
- Consider employer-sponsored plans which subsidize 50-80% of premiums
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Short-term health insurance costs $100 to $400 per month, significantly less than ACA plans. However, coverage is limited and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded.
Short-term plans cover new illnesses and accidents but typically exclude pre-existing conditions, maternity, mental health, and prescription drugs.
Short-term plans last up to 3 months in some states and up to 12 months with renewals up to 36 months in others.