Houston, Texas: health insurance
Houston is in Harris County. Here is what Houston residents should know about coverage.
Coverage in Houston
Houston has about 2,314,157 residents (U.S. Census Bureau 2023 estimate).
Plans for Houston residents are determined by Harris County, home to about 4,835,125 people (2023 estimate). Medicare Advantage plans and marketplace plans are offered by area, so use your ZIP code when you compare, and make sure a plan covers Harris County before you choose it.
- Turning 65 in Houston? Your Initial Enrollment Period runs seven months around your birthday. Texas HICAP (Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program) offers free counseling at 800-252-9240.
- Buying your own plan? Shop through HealthCare.gov (federal Marketplace).
- Medicaid questions? Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) handles applications.
Texas note: Texas has not expanded Medicaid to all low-income adults, so Texas Medicaid eligibility rules can differ meaningfully from states that did expand -- worth confirming directly with HHSC or by phone rather than assuming another state's rules apply.
Colleges and universities near Houston
Texas public institutions include University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, University of Houston. Students and employees at these schools should check their school’s student health or benefits office, because campus plans and employer plans work differently from individual coverage. More about Texas colleges.
Do Houston and Harris County have the same plans?
Plans are offered by service area, and Houston falls under Harris County. A plan that serves Harris County is generally the one that applies to you.
Do I have to enroll if I call?
No. A call is a conversation about your options.
Houston residents: call 855-367-1095
Call Lander LLC to go over your options. There is no cost to call or to speak with an agent, and you are never required to enroll in anything.
Call 855-367-1095Other major Texas cities
Reviewed by Richard Lander, licensed insurance agent (NPN 21255551), Lander LLC. Last updated October 3, 2026. This page is educational and is not a quote, an offer of coverage, or legal or tax advice.