Introduction

If you’ve ever opened a health insurance bill and felt your jaw drop, you’re not alone. Many people across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. wonder if paying around $500 per month for health insurance is typical or if they’re getting the short end of the stick. The truth is, $500 can sometimes be a fair price but it depends on your age, location, coverage level, and whether you qualify for subsidies.

In this guide, we’ll break down whether $500 a month is normal, show you how to compare health insurance quotes more effectively, and share tips on saving money beyond just comparison sites.

Is $500 a Month Normal for Health Insurance?

The answer is it can be.

• United States: In 2025, the average individual health insurance premium is roughly between $450-$600 per month without subsidies. Family plans are much higher, averaging $1,600. Prices differ widely by state for example, health insurance quotes in Florida, Texas, or California often hover around $500-$550, while North Carolina or Ohio may be lower.
• Canada: Basic healthcare is covered through public programs, but private supplemental health insurance (often for dental, prescriptions, or vision) typically costs between $80-$250 per month.
• United Kingdom: The NHS covers most needs, but private health insurance averages around £150-£250 ($190-$320) monthly, with more comprehensive plans going higher.

So, if you’re in the U.S. paying $500 a month, yes, you’re in the “normal” range, depending on your state and coverage. However, that doesn’t mean you’re always getting the best deal.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Lowering Health Insurance Costs

Navigating health insurance doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Here’s a straightforward process to follow:

1. Gather Your Information
   Collect details about your age, location, medical needs, and whether you qualify for subsidies.
2. Compare Multiple Quotes
   Use trusted tools to request health insurance quotes without phone calls so you don’t get spammed by agents. Look for options like “cheap health insurance quotes” or “supplemental health insurance quotes” if you’re only filling gaps.
3. Check for Local Variations
   Rates vary significantly by state or province. For example:
   • Health insurance quotes in Florida, Texas, or California are often high.
   • New York and New Jersey plans average $600+.
   • States like Georgia, Ohio, and Colorado may come in lower.
4. Look at International Coverage (if Relevant)
   If you travel often, consider short term international health insurance or the best international health insurance providers (like Cigna or Allianz).
5. Understand the Trade offs
   Higher deductibles usually mean lower monthly premiums. Likewise, shrinking your hospital network may drop your payments but limit where you can receive care.

The Best Comparison Sites

Comparison sites make it easier to shop and save without the endless paperwork. Some top platforms include:

• EZToGoInsurance
  A modern platform that lets you view real-time tailored insurance quotes not just for health, but home and auto as well. It’s designed to be quick, transparent, and free of spam calls.
• HealthCare.gov (U.S.)
  Official marketplace for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Subsidies and tax credits are available for those who qualify.
• Kanetix (Canada)
  Offers side by side private health insurance quotes, including supplemental plans.
• Compare the Market (U.K.)
  Widely used for private health insurance comparisons and known for competitive rates.

Using multiple comparison tools, including EZToGoInsurance, ensures you’re not overpaying and helps you find the best health insurance for your needs.

Beyond Comparison Sites: Other Ways to Save

Comparison shopping is great, but there are more strategies you can use to cut down costs:

• Adjust Your Deductible or Copays: A higher deductible lowers your monthly bill but means you’ll pay more upfront in case of care.
• Employer Coverage: If you have access to workplace benefits, compare them to marketplace quotes before making a decision.
• Supplemental Plans: Instead of one expensive all inclusive plan, pair a cheaper base plan with supplemental health insurance quotes that cover extras like dental or vision.
• Use Preventive Care: Many plans cover annual checkups for free use them to avoid costly long term issues.
• Check for Discounts: Some companies offer healthy lifestyle discounts, family bundles, or loyalty pricing.

Conclusion

So, is $500 a month normal for health insurance? In most U.S. states yes, it’s about average. In Canada and the U.K., where public healthcare exists, private insurance costs tend to be lower but still add up. What matters most is making sure you’re not overpaying for coverage you don’t need.

Always compare multiple health insurance quotes from states like Florida, Texas, California, or even international providers and don’t overlook cost saving hacks like raising deductibles or choosing supplemental plans.

Take control today: Use trusted comparison tools such as EZToGoInsurance to see real time quotes and start saving right now.

Important Link

Check out our full guide on finding affordable insurance plans.

Important Link

Learn more about subsidies and coverage options on HealthCare.gov.

FAQ

1. Why is health insurance so expensive in the U.S.?
Because the U.S. system relies heavily on private providers, with costs affected by state regulations, hospital pricing, and whether you qualify for government subsidies.

2. Can I get health insurance quotes without phone calls?
Yes. Many platforms, including EZToGoInsurance, allow you to compare rates instantly online without agent follow up calls.

3. Is $500 a month for health insurance cheaper in some states?
Yes. States like Ohio, Georgia, and Colorado often have lower premiums than New York, New Jersey, or California.

4. What’s the difference between health insurance and life insurance?
Health insurance covers medical expenses, while life insurance provides a payout to your beneficiaries if you pass away.

5. Are there international health insurance options?
Yes. Short term international health insurance and providers like Cigna or Allianz offer plans for travelers, expats, or digital nomads.