Health insurance in Delaware is sold through Federal (Healthcare.gov), with an estimated 15-25 plans available for 2026. The average Silver-tier premium is $460/mo before subsidies for a 40-year-old non-smoker. Medicaid status: Expanded.
Marketplace
Federal HC.gov
Federal (Healthcare.gov)
Avg Silver Premium
$460/mo
Before tax credits, age 40
Medicaid
Expanded
Affordable Care Act status
| Field | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplace | Federal (Healthcare.gov) | Apply via Healthcare.gov |
| Open Enrollment 2026 | Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026 | Special enrollment for QLEs year-round |
| Plans available | 15-25 | Bronze/Silver/Gold/Platinum tiers |
| Medicaid expansion | Expanded | Up to 138% FPL |
Premium and plan counts are estimates for 2026 based on prior-year filings and pending rate approvals. Always verify pricing on the marketplace itself before enrolling.
Delaware is one of the smallest ACA markets in the country, with only 15–25 plans available statewide. Highmark BCBS Delaware is the dominant insurer, with Aetna and UnitedHealthcare providing limited competition. The state's small size means there is little rural-urban disparity in plan availability, but network breadth can still vary. Silver premiums for a 40-year-old average around $450–$470/month before subsidies. Delaware uses the federal Healthcare.gov platform for marketplace enrollment.
Delaware expanded Medicaid in 2014 and operates the Diamond State Health Plan through managed care organizations. The state's Medicaid program covers a meaningful share of its low-income population. Delaware has pursued additional coverage initiatives including a state-level individual mandate to encourage enrollment. The state's proximity to major healthcare systems in Philadelphia and the broader Mid-Atlantic region generally supports network adequacy, though Delaware's own provider base is limited given its size.
Leading 2026 ACA carriers in Delaware: Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware, Aetna/CVS, UnitedHealthcare. Plan selection and network breadth vary widely by ZIP code — use the marketplace's plan-finder tool with your ZIP and household income for accurate availability.
Delaware uses Healthcare.gov but has a strong state Medicaid program (Diamond State Health Plan) that covers a high percentage of low-income residents.
Delaware expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Adults under 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify — about $20,800/yr for an individual or $43,000/yr for a family of 4 in 2026.
💡 Delaware Pro Tip
Delaware uses the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov. The state does not operate its own exchange.
A 40-year-old non-smoker in Delaware typically pays about $450–$470/month for a Silver plan before subsidies.
Yes. Delaware expanded Medicaid in 2014. Adults earning up to 138% FPL are generally eligible for the Diamond State Health Plan.
Marketplace data sourced from state and federal exchange filings for Delaware, April 2026. Premium estimates are 2026-projected.
Jennifer Walsh
Editorial Lead, Health & Medicare
This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.
Reviewed April 2026
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