How Much Does Expat Health Insurance Cost in 2026?
If you’re an expat planning to live outside your home country or preparing for a move abroad, one of the first practical questions that comes up is cost. Specifically, how much does expat health insurance cost in 2026?
The honest answer is that there isn’t one fixed price. Expat health insurance and international health insurance are priced based on personal circumstances, lifestyle, and where you’ll be living. That’s very different from many local health insurance systems, where pricing is often standardised.
In this article, we’ll explain what influences the cost of expat and international health insurance in 2026, what price ranges typically look like, and how to choose coverage that fits your life, without making the process more complicated than it needs to be!
Health insurance pricing is complex anywhere, but it gets even more complicated when you’re living internationally. The main reasons expat health insurance costs vary are these factors below.
This is the single biggest factor. A younger expat is typically cheaper to insure because the risk of serious illness or hospitalization is lower.
In the U.S., for example:
A 30-year-old may average around $563/month
A 50-year-old might pay $900+/month
That gap isn’t just “age-based pricing.” It reflects real differences in medical risk and expected healthcare use.
Where you live matters. Costs in the U.S. are generally higher than in most other countries because healthcare prices in America are among the highest in the world.
If your plan includes the U.S. in its coverage area, premiums will be higher than plans that exclude the U.S.
Like domestic insurance, international plans come in tiers.
High-deductible plans (Bronze-style) cost less monthly, but you pay more out-of-pocket.
Platinum-style plans cost more monthly, but have lower deductibles and higher coverage.
Family plans cost more, sometimes a lot more. In the U.S., family plans can exceed $25,000 annually, depending on age and coverage level.
Adding dental, maternity, mental health coverage, or evacuation services increases premiums. The key is deciding which benefits you truly need based on your lifestyle and destination.
If you’re an expat in the U.S. (or planning to move there), it’s important to be realistic about costs. Expats often find that U.S. expat health insurance is expensive, and for good reason: the U.S. has some of the highest medical costs globally.
For comprehensive international health insurance in the U.S., monthly premiums often range from:
$500 to $1,000+ per month for individuals
Annual premiums can reach $10,000 to $28,000+, depending on age and plan type
For families, costs can be significantly higher, often $25,000+ per year.
That might sound intimidating, but remember: these plans are designed to protect you from the kind of medical bills that can easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars after a single emergency.
Why U.S. Expat Insurance Costs More
The U.S. spends more per person on healthcare than most high-income countries. That means insurance premiums reflect higher underlying costs.
Even routine procedures can be expensive, so insurers adjust premiums accordingly.
Many international plans exclude pre-existing conditions unless you pay a higher premium. That can dramatically raise costs, depending on your medical history.
Tax Considerations for Expats
If you’re living in the U.S., you may also need to consider whether your plan is ACA-compliant. If it isn’t, there may be tax penalties or complications depending on your status. This is especially important if you’re a legal resident or a visa holder who must meet certain requirements.
So, Is Expat Health Insurance Worth the Cost?
Yes, and here’s why.
When you’re living abroad, medical emergencies can be expensive and unpredictable. A single hospital stay in the U.S. can easily exceed $50,000. In many countries, private care can also be very costly.
Expat health insurance protects you from financial risk and gives you access to quality care when you need it.
How to Estimate Your Expat Health Insurance Cost in 2026
To get a realistic estimate, consider these questions:
How old are you?
Where will you live most of the time?
Will you include the U.S. in your coverage?
Do you need family coverage?
Do you need additional benefits like maternity or dental?
Are you willing to pay more for lower deductibles?
Final Thoughts
The cost of expat health insurance varies widely, especially depending on whether the plan includes the U.S.
In the U.S., monthly premiums often range from $500 to over $1,000, and annual costs can exceed $10,000–$28,000+ for individuals. Families can see annual costs exceeding $35,000.
But international health insurance isn’t just a cost, it’s protection. It’s peace of mind. It’s the difference between being able to focus on your life abroad or constantly worrying about what would happen if you got sick.
If you’re unsure which plan fits your budget and lifestyle, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Contact WellAway to explore international health insurance plans designed for expats, with coverage tailored to your needs!