Plans Available in Hickory
Marketplace health insurance in Hickory is offered by: Blue Cross NC, Ambetter from WellCare of NC, Aetna, Cigna, Oscar Health. The leading carrier in the Hickory area is Blue Cross NC. Available plans and exact premiums depend on your ZIP code, age, and household income.
Hospitals and Health Systems in Hickory
- Catawba Valley Medical Center
- Frye Regional Medical Center
Verify that your preferred hospital is in-network before selecting a plan. Use each carrier's online provider directory or call the plan's member services number.
ACA Subsidies and Medicaid
If your household income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (approximately $15,650 to $62,600 per year for a single adult in 2026), you likely qualify for premium tax credits that reduce your monthly premium. Medicaid available year-round for income-eligible adults (138% FPL or below).
How to Enroll
Open Enrollment runs November 1 through January 15 each year. If you have a qualifying life event (job loss, move, marriage, new baby), you have a 60-day Special Enrollment Period. An independent, licensed broker can compare every plan available in your Hickory ZIP code at no cost to you.
2026 Plan Data for Residents in Hickory
Here is what is actually filed and for sale in Catawba County for 2026.
- Hickory sits in Catawba County, where 4 carrier(s) have filed 63 plans for 2026: Ambetter of North Carolina, AmeriHealth Caritas Next, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC, UnitedHealthcare.
- Plan types available to Hickory residents: HMO, POS, PPO.
- One of the lower-cost Silver options is Standard Silver + Vision + Adult Dental from Ambetter of North Carolina — $616/month at age 40 with a $6,000 deductible and $40 primary care.
Source: CMS Plan Year 2026 Qualified Health Plan Landscape file. Full-price filed rates before premium tax credits; not a quote or an offer of coverage. Verify current rates at enrollment.