Top health insurance companies in America include UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and Kaiser Permanente. These providers offer extensive networks, competitive premiums, and various plan options. Humana and Molina Healthcare also serve millions with tailored Medicare and Medicaid plans. Their strong financial ratings, wide coverage, and customer satisfaction make them leading choices for individuals, families, and employers across the United States.
Choosing the right health insurance company can feel like navigating a maze. With healthcare services and an ever-changing insurance landscape, finding the right coverage can help ensure the quality, value, and affordability of your coverage. In the United States, health insurance is a lifeline for millions of people, covering everything from emergency medical care to life-saving medications. But not all insurers are created equal. Some dominate the market with better products and innovations, while others cut costs and budgets.
Why Choosing the Right Health Insurance Company Matters
Before we dive into the rankings, let’s talk about why this decision is so important. In 2023, U.S. healthcare spending per capita exceeded $12,500, the highest among developed nations. Yet, the U.S. has the lowest life expectancy among its peers, highlighting gaps in care access and quality. Health insurance bridges that gap, covering preventive care, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. A good insurer offers:
- Affordability: Competitive premiums, low deductibles, and reasonable out-of-pocket maximums.
- Network Size: Access to a wide range of doctors, specialists, and hospitals.
- Customer Satisfaction: Hassle-free claims processing and responsive support.
- Plan Variety: Options like HMO, PPO, EPO, or ACA marketplace plans to suit different needs.
The top health insurance companies dominate the market, with the four largest controlling 50% of enrollments in 2023. Consolidation through mergers—like CVS Health’s acquisition of Aetna or Cigna’s purchase of Express Scripts—has created giants with vast resources but also raised concerns about competition and rising premiums. Our list focuses on companies that excel in delivering value, based on data from sources like the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), Insure.com, and the American Medical Association (AMA).
Methodology: How We Ranked the Top Health Insurance Companies
To create this list, we analyzed the top-ranking articles on Google for keywords like “top health insurance companies in America” and “best health insurance USA 2025.” We cross-referenced data from trusted sources, including:
- Market Share: Based on 2023 enrollment and revenue data from the NAIC and AMA.
- Customer Satisfaction: Ratings from Insure.com’s 2025 consumer surveys, NCQA (National Committee for Quality Assurance) scores, and NAIC complaint indices.
- Affordability: Average premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums from Forbes, Investopedia, and KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation).
- Network and Availability: Provider networks and geographic reach, per company reports and Visual Capitalist.
- Plan Options: Variety of plans (e.g., ACA marketplace, Medicare, group plans) and medical management programs.
We prioritized companies that balance these factors while addressing user intent: finding reliable, cost-effective coverage. The Google algorithm in 2025 emphasizes E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), so we’ve ensured this guide is factual, well-researched, and written in a human, conversational tone. Let’s meet the top players.
1. UnitedHealth Group
Market Share: 14–15% (28% in some metrics)
Headquarters: Minnetonka, MN
Membership: ~29 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): $248 billion
Key Brands: UnitedHealthcare, Optum
Availability: Nationwide (individual plans in 26 states)
UnitedHealth Group is the undisputed giant of U.S. health insurance, with 2023 revenues of $371.6 billion, making it the fourth-largest company in the country behind Walmart, Amazon, and Apple. Its flagship brand, UnitedHealthcare, serves over 29 million Americans, from individuals to large employers. Optum, its technology and care delivery arm, employs 90,000 physicians and powers 9 out of 10 U.S. hospitals with its platform.
Why UnitedHealth Group Ranks #1
- Massive Network: Over 1.7 million physicians and 6,700 hospitals ensure you’re rarely out of network.
- Plan Variety: Offers HMO, PPO, EPO, and POS plans, plus Medicare Advantage and Medicaid options.
- Customer Loyalty: Insure.com’s 2025 survey gave UnitedHealthcare 4.17/5 stars, tying with Kaiser Permanente for first place. 94% of customers would recommend it.
- Innovation: Optum’s tech-driven solutions, like predictive analytics for chronic conditions, set industry standards.
Drawbacks
- Premium Costs: ACA marketplace premiums are higher than some competitors, averaging $500/month for silver plans.
- Complaints: While below the NAIC average (0.24 complaint index), claims processing can be slow in some regions.
Best For
UnitedHealth Group is ideal for those seeking nationwide coverage, robust employer plans, or tech-forward healthcare solutions. Its dominance in Medicare Advantage makes it a top choice for seniors.
2. Kaiser Permanente
Market Share: 6–7%
Headquarters: Oakland, CA
Membership: ~9 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): $76.9 billion
Availability: 8 states (CA, CO, GA, HI, MD, OR, VA, WA) + Washington, D.C.
Kaiser Permanente is a nonprofit powerhouse known for its integrated healthcare model, combining insurance with its hospitals and clinics. For the fifth consecutive year, Insure.com’s 2025 rankings with 4.17/5 stars, excelling in affordability and customer satisfaction.
Why Kaiser Permanente Shines
- Affordability: Silver plan premiums average $439/month, the second-lowest in Investopedia’s 2025 study. Family plans average $1,513/month, the lowest among top insurers.
- Customer Satisfaction: Boasts a 4.2/5 NCQA rating and a 0.37 NAIC complaint index, indicating fewer complaints than peers.
- Integrated Care: Its “one-stop-shop” model reduces claim issues and streamlines care, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
- Digital Experience: A 4.79/5-rated mobile app lets you manage appointments, prescriptions, and claims effortlessly.
Drawbacks
- Limited Reach: Available in only eight states and D.C., with HMO plans that restrict out-of-network care.
- Chronic Care Concerns: Some customers with complex conditions report feeling underserved, per a 2025 Reyes Law study.
Best For
Kaiser Permanente is perfect for cost-conscious individuals or families in its service areas who value seamless care and preventive services. It’s also a strong pick for self-employed workers due to low premiums.
3. Elevance Health
Market Share: 6–12%
Headquarters: Indianapolis, IN
Membership: ~47.5 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified (second-highest revenue)
Key Brands: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, WellPoint, Carelon
Availability: 14 states (expanding)
Formerly Anthem, Elevance Health is the second-largest insurer by revenue and a major player in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. It serves over 47 million members, including 21 million risk-based patients, through brands like Anthem and WellPoint.
Why Elevance Health Stands Out
- Network Strength: Partners with 1.7 million providers, offering nationwide access via the BlueCard program.
- Plan Flexibility: Offers HMO, PPO, and EPO plans, plus Medicaid and Medicare Advantage options.
- Market Presence: Dominates nine states, with 67% market share in Kentucky alone.
- Diversification: Its Carelon brand provides pharmacy and primary care services, reducing reliance on insurance revenue.
Drawbacks
- Cost: Premiums are above average, especially for ACA plans.
- Customer Service: Scored 3.8/5 in Insure.com’s 2025 survey, lagging behind Kaiser and UnitedHealthcare.
Best For
Elevance Health suits those in its 14-state footprint who want flexible plans and access to a vast provider network. It’s also great for travelers due to BlueCard benefits.
4. CVS Health (Aetna)
Market Share: 11%
Headquarters: Woonsocket, RI
Membership: ~23 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): $51 billion
Key Brands: Aetna, CVS Pharmacy
Availability: All 50 states
CVS Health’s 2018 acquisition of Aetna transformed it into a healthcare juggernaut, blending insurance with 9,900 retail clinics and 1,100 MinuteClinics. Aetna ranks third in Insure.com’s 2025 survey with 4.1/5 stars, praised for affordability and ease of access.
Why CVS Health/Aetna Excels
- Nationwide Reach: Offers plans in all 50 states, with a network of 1.3 million providers.
- Affordability: Competitive premiums (e.g., $450/month for silver ACA plans) and low deductibles.
- Retail Integration: CVS pharmacies and clinics make prescriptions and urgent care convenient.
- Customer Satisfaction: 87.2% of Aetna customers plan to renew, per Insure.com.
Drawbacks
- Complaints: Higher-than-average NAIC complaint index in some states.
- Medicaid Focus: Strong in Medicaid markets but less dominant in commercial plans.
Best For
Aetna is ideal for families or individuals seeking affordable, accessible care with the convenience of CVS’s retail network. It’s also a top pick for Medicaid enrollees.
5. Cigna
Market Share: 2–10%
Headquarters: Bloomfield, CT
Membership: Not specified (significant global reach)
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified
Key Brands: Cigna Healthcare, Evernorth
Availability: All 50 states (Medicare plans)
Cigna is a global healthcare provider with a strong U.S. presence, particularly in Medicare and dental plans. Its 2018 acquisition of Express Scripts bolstered its pharmacy benefits management, serving 100 million plan members.
Why Cigna Makes the List
- Plan Diversity: Offers HMO, PPO, and POS plans, plus standalone Medicare Part D and dental coverage.
- Digital Tools: High digital experience scores, with online premium payments and account management.
- Customer Service: Scored 3.6/5 in Insure.com’s 2025 survey, with 75% of revenue from non-insurance services like Evernorth.
- Global Reach: Ideal for expatriates or businesses with international employees.
Drawbacks
- Claim Denials: Criticized for high denial rates, with allegations of algorithmic rejections in a 2025 Reyes Law report.
- Premium Costs: Higher-than-average for ACA plans.
Best For
Cigna is great for employers offering group plans or individuals needing Medicare prescription drug plans. Its global footprint suits international travelers.
6. Humana
Market Share: 18% (by some metrics)
Headquarters: Louisville, KY
Membership: ~5 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified
Key Brands: Humana, CenterWell
Availability: Nationwide (focused on Medicare)
Humana specializes in Medicare and Medicaid plans, with a growing presence in commercial insurance. It ranks fifth in Insure.com’s 2025 survey with 4.1/5 stars, lauded for affordability.
Why Humana Ranks High
- Medicare Expertise: Leads in Medicare Advantage, with plans in all 50 states.
- Affordability: Low premiums and deductibles, especially for seniors.
- CenterWell: Offers pharmacy, home, and primary care services, enhancing member experience.
- Market Share: Dominates 22% of MSAs (metropolitan statistical areas), per AMA.
Drawbacks
- Limited Commercial Plans: Less focus on individual or employer-based coverage.
- Customer Service: Mixed reviews, with some delays in claims processing.
Best For
Humana is the go-to for seniors on Medicare or those seeking affordable plans with integrated pharmacy services.
7. Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC)
Market Share: 6%
Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Membership: ~18.6 million
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified
Key Brands: Blue Cross Blue Shield (IL, MT, NM, OK, TX)
Availability: 5 states
HCSC is the largest customer-owned insurer, operating Blue Cross Blue Shield plans in five states. It ranks sixth in Insure.com’s 2025 survey with 4/5 stars.
Why HCSC Stands Out
- Regional Strength: High enrollment in its five states, with a network of 1.7 million providers.
- Affordability: Competitive group plan rates for small businesses.
- Customer Satisfaction: Strong NCQA ratings and low complaint indices.
- Nonprofit Model: Reinvests profits into member benefits.
Drawbacks
- Limited Reach: Only available in five states.
- Plan Complexity: Varies by state, which can confuse customers.
Best For
HCSC is ideal for residents of Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, or Texas seeking reliable Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage.
8. Centene Corporation
Market Share: 5%
Headquarters: St. Louis, MO
Membership: Not specified (focus on Medicaid)
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified
Key Brands: Ambetter, Wellcare
Availability: 26 states (ACA plans)
Centene is a leader in Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans, with its Ambetter brand gaining traction. It ranks ninth in some metrics due to its Medicaid focus.
Why Centene Makes the Cut
- Medicaid Dominance: Leads in 15% of MSAs, per AMA.
- Affordability: Ambetter plans are among the cheapest on the ACA marketplaces.
- Expansion: Growing presence in commercial markets.
- Community Focus: Targets underserved populations.
Drawbacks
- Customer Service: Higher complaint indices in some states.
- Limited Network: Smaller provider networks compared to UnitedHealth or Elevance.
Best For
Centene is best for low-income individuals or families eligible for Medicaid or ACA subsidies.
9. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Federation
Market Share: Varies (86% in Alabama)
Headquarters: Varies (federation of 34 companies)
Membership: ~100 million (combined)
Direct Written Premiums (2023): Not specified
Key Brands: BCBS of Michigan, Florida, California, etc.
Availability: All 50 states
The BCBS Federation isn’t a single company but a network of 34 independent insurers, collectively covering 100 million Americans. It dominates 16 states, with an 86% market share in Alabama.
Why BCBS Excels
- Nationwide Coverage: Accepted in all 50 states, with 1.7 million providers.
- Plan Options: Offers all four ACA metal tiers (bronze, silver, gold, platinum) and HMO, PPO, EPO, POS plans.
- Digital Experience: High scores for online account management and premium payments.
- Customer Satisfaction: Low complaint levels in many states, per NAIC.
Drawbacks
- Inconsistency: Quality and premiums vary by state and affiliate.
- High Costs: Bronze and gold plan deductibles are above average.
Best For
BCBS is perfect for those who travel frequently or live in states with strong BCBS affiliates, like Alabama or Michigan.
Conclusion
Top health insurance companies in America. The U.S. health insurance market is dominated by a few giants, but each offers unique strengths. UnitedHealth Group leads with its vast network and innovation, while Kaiser Permanente excels in affordability and integrated care. Elevance Health and CVS/Aetna provide flexibility and nationwide reach, and niche players like Humana and Centene cater to specific markets like Medicare and Medicaid.
Choosing the right doctor from the best health insurance companies in America gives you peace of mind and ensures you get the best treatment possible. These project managers offer customized plans to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for personal, family, or business coverage, researching the best insurers can help you make the right decision for your budget and long-term financial future.
FAQ
Who is the number one healthcare company in the USA?
UnitedHealth Group is the top healthcare company in the USA, with $371.6 billion in 2023 revenue and 29 million members. Its vast network, innovative tech via Optum, and high customer satisfaction (4.17/5) make it a leader in insurance and care delivery.
Which health insurance is best?
Kaiser Permanente is often the best for affordability and satisfaction, scoring 4.17/5 in 2025 surveys. Its integrated care model and low premiums ($439/month for silver plans) shine, but it’s limited to eight states. UnitedHealthcare is a close second for nationwide coverage.
Where does Blue Cross Blue Shield rank?
Blue Cross Blue Shield ranks ninth among top insurers, covering 100 million across 50 states. Its strength lies in nationwide acceptance and plan variety, but inconsistent quality across its 34 affiliates and higher deductibles keep it from topping the list.
Which health insurance denies the most claims?
Top health insurance companies in America, Cigna, have faced scrutiny for high claim denials, with reports in 2025 alleging algorithmic rejections. Exact denial rates are hard to pin down, but Cigna’s NAIC complaint index is above average in some states, raising red flags for customers.
What is the best health insurance to have?
One of the top health insurance companies in America, Kaiser Permanente, is ideal for cost-conscious folks in its eight states, with low premiums and seamless care. UnitedHealthcare is best for nationwide access and flexibility. Your needs—budget, network, or plan type—determine the perfect fit.
What insurance is better than BCBS?
Top health insurance companies in America, such as UnitedHealthcare and Kaiser Permanente, often outshine BCBS. UnitedHealthcare offers a larger network and higher satisfaction (4.17/5), while Kaiser’s affordability and integrated care model excel. BCBS’s inconsistent quality across states makes these two stronger choices for many.
