2026 Medicare Plan Costs Every Beneficiary Should Know

Overview

Planning ahead for Medicare plan costs is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and your wallet. Every year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) updates Original Medicare plan premiums and benefits, which can directly impact what you’ll pay for healthcare.

For 2026, Medicare plan beneficiaries may see some welcome changes: premiums for both Medicare Advantage (MA) and Part D prescription drug coverage are projected to decrease. At the same time, access to a wide range of plan choices will remain stable. 

Below, we break down the key Medicare plan costs in 2026 that every beneficiary should know before making coverage decisions during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).

Medicare Part B Premium in 2026

The Medicare Part B premium is a key cost for most beneficiaries, since it covers outpatient care, doctor visits, and preventive services.

• The standard Part B premium for 2026 has not yet been finalized by CMS. Historically, these premiums may increase slightly each year, though some years have brought lower-than-expected adjustments.
• In addition to the monthly premium, beneficiaries are responsible for the annual Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance for most covered services.

Medicare Advantage Plan Costs in 2026

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) continue to be a popular option for those who want an alternative to, and/or additional benefits beyond Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)

Premiums

• The average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans is projected to decrease from $16.40 in 2025 to $14.00 in 2026.
• This includes plans that cover prescription drugs and Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans (SNPs).

Enrollment Trends

• MA enrollment is projected to reach 34 million in 2026, representing about 48% of all Medicare beneficiaries.
• Access remains strong: 99% of beneficiaries will have access to at least one MA plan, and 97% will have 10 or more plan options.
  

📊 Quick Comparison Table: 2025 vs. 2026 Medicare Advantage Premiums

Medicare Part D Costs in 2026

Prescription drug coverage is another major factor in Medicare plan costs.

Stand-Alone Medicare Part D Plans (PDPs)

• The average premium for a standalone Part D plan will decrease from $38.31 in 2025 to $34.50 in 2026.
• CMS has taken steps to reject outlier plans with excessive premium increases, protecting beneficiaries from sudden cost spikes.

Part D in Medicare Advantage

• For Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage, the average Part D premium is projected to drop from $13.32 in 2025 to $11.50 in 2026.

New Stabilization Measures

• Nearly all beneficiaries will have access to plans under the Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration, ensuring more predictable costs.

How to Compare 2026 Medicare Plans

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 – December 7, 2025, giving you the chance to review and adjust your coverage for 2026.

Compare the best Medicare Advantage Plans for 2o26 to see what’s offered in your state.

Action Step: Discover 2026 Medicare plans at Healthcare.com or call 877-388-1028 TTY 711, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET to connect with a licensed insurance agent.

Common Questions About 2026 Medicare Costs

Will my Medicare Advantage plan change in 2026?
Possibly. While premiums are decreasing on average, your specific plan may update benefits, networks, or costs. Always check your Annual Notice of Change letter (ANOC).

Is Part B included in Medicare Advantage plans?
Yes. All Medicare Advantage plans include Part A and Part B coverage, but you still must pay your Part B premium in addition to any plan premium.

Can I switch from Part D to Medicare Advantage in 2026?
Yes, during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2025), you can switch from a stand-alone Part D plan and other Medicare plan coverage you may have to a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage.

Bottom Line

For 2026, beneficiaries can expect lower Medicare plan costs across both Medicare Advantage and Part D coverage. 

As you prepare for Open Enrollment, be sure to:

1. Review your current plan’s ANOC.
2. Compare premiums, deductibles, and provider networks.
3. Use Healthcare.com to find the best fit for your budget and needs.

Taking the time to compare your options now could save you hundreds in healthcare costs next year.