Insurance Curator Finding affordable health insurance in Wyoming can feel like hunting for a pronghorn in the high plains—possible, but you need to know where to look. Premiums in the Equality State are among the highest in the country, yet residents still have several avenues to trim costs without sacrificing coverage. Below, we break down 2024 marketplace prices, carrier options, money-saving tips, and expert insights to help you land the cheapest health insurance in Wyoming.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in Wyoming in 2024?
Marketplace rates vary by age, county, and metal tier. The table below shows the average lowest-cost premium for a 40-year-old enrollee before subsidies (rounded to the nearest dollar). Numbers are based on public HealthCare.gov filings for plan year 2024.
| Metal Tier | Average Monthly Premium | 21-Year-Old | 40-Year-Old | 60-Year-Old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $357 | $280 | $357 | $762 |
| Expanded Bronze | $389 | $305 | $389 | $829 |
| Silver (Benchmark) | $524 | $410 | $524 | $1,116 |
| Gold | $594 | $465 | $594 | $1,265 |
Key takeaways
- The benchmark Silver plan—used to calculate subsidies—averages $524 per month for a 40-year-old.
- Age has a steep impact. A 60-year-old often pays more than double the 21-year-old rate without subsidies.
- Federal premium tax credits can eliminate all premium costs for many households under 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL).
For a deeper dive into premium trends, see our guide on Health Insurance Marketplace Plans in Wyoming.
2024 Marketplace Carriers and Cheapest Plans
Wyoming’s ACA marketplace is small but competitive enough to keep rates in check. Two insurers participate statewide:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY)
- Mountain Health CO-OP
The table below highlights the cheapest on-exchange plans we found in Laramie County (Cheyenne). Rates may differ slightly in other counties.
| Metal Tier | Carrier | Plan Name | 40-Year-Old Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Mountain Health CO-OP | Connected Bronze 9150 | $331 |
| Expanded Bronze | BCBSWY | BlueSelect Bronze 8900 HSA | $352 |
| Silver | Mountain Health CO-OP | Connected Silver 4000 | $488 |
| Gold | BCBSWY | BlueSelect Gold 2000 | $564 |
Pro-tip: Always compare at least three plans side by side because prescription formularies, provider networks, and deductibles differ widely—even within the same metal tier.
Why Are Premiums High in the Equality State?
Wyoming consistently posts some of the highest average premiums in the U.S. Key reasons include:
- Sparse population: Fewer enrollees mean higher costs per member for insurers to balance risk.
- Rural provider networks: Long travel distances and limited hospital competition drive up reimbursement rates.
- Older risk pool: A higher-than-average share of older residents increases claims costs.
Wyoming is not alone in battling elevated insurance rates. Our neighbors in Montana face similar challenges (see Cheapest Health Insurance in Montana).
6 Proven Ways to Get Cheaper Health Insurance in Wyoming
• Claim every subsidy you qualify for. Roughly 9 in 10 marketplace shoppers in Wyoming receive premium tax credits. Update your income anytime it changes to maximize savings.
• Shop during open enrollment (Nov 1 – Jan 15). Prices and plan designs refresh each year. Auto-renewing could cost hundreds more.
• Consider an HSA-compatible Bronze plan. High-deductible health plans (HDHPs) paired with a Health Savings Account lower premiums and offer tax perks.
• Look at off-exchange plans. A handful of association or ministry plans can be 30–40 % cheaper, but read exclusions carefully.
• Leverage employer reimbursement. Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) allow small businesses to fund employees’ individual plans pre-tax.
• Compare short-term health plans cautiously. They can bridge gaps for as low as $90 per month but often exclude pre-existing conditions and maternity.
Eligibility for Subsidies, Medicaid, and CHIP
Premium Tax Credits
• Available for incomes up to 400 % FPL—and temporarily beyond—thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act extensions through 2025.
• Credits cap your cost of the benchmark Silver plan to a percentage of income, sometimes lowering premium to $0.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)
• Extra discounts on deductibles and out-of-pocket limits.
• Only apply to Silver plans and incomes up to 250 % FPL.
Wyoming Medicaid Expansion Status
Wyoming has not expanded Medicaid. Adults under 65 generally qualify only if they meet stringent disability or caregiving criteria. Children may still be eligible for the Kid Care CHIP program up to 205 % FPL.
Cheapest Health Insurance for Different Profiles
Young Adults (18-29)
- The Connected Bronze 9150 from Mountain Health CO-OP starts around $260 per month for a 25-year-old.
- If your income is under 150 % FPL, a Silver CSR plan could be free and come with <$200 deductibles.
Families of Four
- A household earning $70,000 (≈250 % FPL) could see subsidies of $1,350+ per month, bringing the Connected Silver 4000 down to about $165 monthly.
- Review pediatric dental and vision benefits, which are embedded in many Wyoming plans.
Self-Employed Ranchers & Freelancers
- Your net income after business deductions is what counts.
- Consider SEP IRA contributions to lower MAGI and increase subsidies.
Seniors 60–64 Not Yet on Medicare
- The cheapest Bronze plan averages $710 monthly pre-subsidy.
- Lower-income seniors may qualify for subsidies that erase 90 %+ of premium costs, making coverage more attainable until Medicare at 65.
Need coverage for your vehicle, too? Check out Cheapest Car Insurance in Wyoming for bundle opportunities.
Are Off-Marketplace Plans Ever Cheaper?
While most residents choose the ACA exchange, BCBSWY and regional associations sell a handful of off-exchange EPO and PPO options. These plans can:
- Offer broader provider networks (ideal if you cross state lines frequently).
- Exclude essential health benefits mandates, which lowers cost but increases risk.
Always run the numbers with and without subsidies. If you qualify for tax credits, marketplace plans are almost always cheaper.
Short-Term Health Plans in Wyoming
Wyoming allows short-term plans up to 36 months (renewals included). Monthly premiums can fall below $100, but watch for:
- Benefit caps as low as $250,000.
- Exclusions for mental health, maternity, and prescription drugs.
- Medical underwriting, which can deny coverage for any pre-existing condition.
Short-term coverage should be a last resort—for example, if you missed open enrollment and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is open enrollment?
Nov 1 – Jan 15 each year. Enroll by Dec 15 for a Jan 1 start date.
Can I change plans midyear?
Yes, if you have a qualifying life event (QLE) such as losing job-based coverage, marriage, or moving counties.
Does Wyoming have its own state exchange?
No. Residents use HealthCare.gov.
Are there penalties for being uninsured?
Wyoming follows federal rules—no individual mandate penalty at the state level.
What about Medicare supplements?
Turning 65? Compare Medigap options alongside Best Health Insurance in Wyoming for a seamless transition.
Bottom Line
Despite Wyoming’s rugged terrain and limited carrier lineup, affordable health insurance is within reach for most residents—especially when you leverage federal tax credits and shop diligently each year. Start by comparing Bronze and Silver plans from BCBSWY and Mountain Health CO-OP, run your subsidy estimates, and consider an HSA if you’re healthy and savings-minded.
Need more regional insurance insights? Explore related guides like Average Home Insurance Cost in Wyoming, Best Auto Insurance Companies in Wyoming, or even Workers Compensation Insurance in Wyoming: Requirements and Costs to round out your protection plan.
Ready to save? Head to HealthCare.gov during open enrollment—or connect with a licensed broker—to lock in the cheapest health insurance Wyoming has to offer.