How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in South Carolina? (2026)

Average Health Insurance Premiums in South Carolina (2026)

The following estimates show typical unsubsidized monthly premiums for a 40-year-old single adult in South Carolina in 2026. Actual costs vary significantly by ZIP code, age, and plan choice:

• Bronze HDHP: approximately $74“$168/month
• Bronze (standard): approximately $155“$292/month
• Silver: approximately $370“$560/month (lower end)
• Gold: approximately $370“$560/month (upper end)

Premiums increase with age and household size. Younger adults (20s, early 30s) pay less; adults in their 50s and early 60s pay significantly more. Tobacco users pay a surcharge in most states.

South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid. BCBS of SC is by far the dominant marketplace carrier. The Greenville and Columbia metros have slightly more carrier competition than coastal or rural counties.

How ACA Subsidies Reduce Your Premium in South Carolina

If your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level (roughly $15,650–$62,600 for a single adult in 2026), you qualify for ACA premium tax credits that directly reduce your monthly premium. The subsidy is calculated as the difference between your benchmark Silver plan premium and a capped percentage of your income.

At income levels below 250% FPL, you also qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSR) on Silver plans that reduce deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums significantly.

Carriers in South Carolina (2026)

Marketplace carriers in South Carolina include: BlueCross BlueShield of SC, Ambetter from Absolute Total Care, Molina Healthcare. The dominant carrier in most South Carolina counties is BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. Plan availability varies by county — check healthcare.gov for exact options in your ZIP code.

South Carolina Medicaid: Free or Low-Cost Coverage in South Carolina

South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid. Non-disabled childless adults cannot qualify for SC Medicaid regardless of income. The marketplace is the only option for most low-income adults.