What Short-Term Health Insurance Costs Per Month in 2026
The headline number: what most people pay
Short-term medical pricing in 2026 lands between $85 and $310 per month for a single adult, depending almost entirely on age and the deductible you choose. A 29-year-old buying a high-deductible plan often pays under $100, while a 58-year-old wanting a $2,500 deductible can easily cross $300. These prices are why STM keeps growing: the average unsubsidized ACA silver plan in the same market runs two to three times higher for healthy buyers.
What actually drives your quote
Carriers price STM on four factors: age band, zip code, plan tier (deductible and coinsurance), and whether you add riders like telemedicine or accident boost. Unlike ACA plans, health status matters — the application asks about recent diagnoses, and heavy medical history can be declined or surcharged rather than priced in.
| Age band | Typical monthly premium | Common deductible range |
|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | $85 – $140 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| 35-49 | $120 – $210 | $2,500 – $7,500 |
| 50-64 | $190 – $310 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
FAQ
Do I pay the full deductible before anything is covered?
On coinsurance-style STM, yes — though fixed-cash riders (like the $150 doctor visit benefit) pay from day one regardless of deductible.
Why did my premium double at renewal?
STM premiums are month-to-month and age-band based; crossing into the next 5-year age band at renewal is the most common jump.
Is there a cheaper way to hold STM?
Raising the deductible from $2,500 to $7,500 typically cuts 25-35% off the premium.