Medicare Advantage Plans in Florida: Enrollment, Costs, and Plan Options
TL;DR:
- Medicare Advantage plans in Florida continue to grow in popularity, with more than half of eligible beneficiaries enrolled.
- As of 2026, there are 611 Medicare Advantage plans available statewide with an average monthly premium of about $2.11.
- This guide outlines who these plans serve, how they work, and what to consider when choosing a plan that fits your healthcare needs.
Understanding Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (called Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare, offered through private insurance carriers approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (which we like to shorten to ‘CMS’). These plans bundle Part A (which is hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) coverage, and many also include Part D prescription drug coverage along with additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs.
According to KFF research on Medicare Advantage, enrollment in Medicare Advantage now represents more than 54% of all Medicare beneficiaries nationwide, marking a continued shift toward private plan options.
Medicare Advantage in Florida: Key Statistics
Florida has one of the largest Medicare populations in the country, with over 5.19 million residents enrolled in Medicare. Our Great State is widely known as THE retiree destination, so it’s no surprise that such a large portion of people use Medicare! The state offers a diverse range of plans, giving beneficiaries many options to meet their needs.
- 611 Medicare Advantage plans available for 2026 (up from 592 in 2025).
- Average monthly premium: $2.11 (taken directly from CMS 2026 Fact Sheet).
- 100% of Medicare-eligible Floridians have access to at least one $0-premium Medicare Advantage plan.
- Major carriers in Florida include Devoted Health, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Florida Blue, Wellcare, Freedom Health, and Optimum Healthcare.
Demographics: Who Chooses Medicare Advantage in Florida?
Florida’s demographics make Medicare Advantage an appealing option. With 21.7% of residents age 65 or older, according to America’s Health Rankings, the state has one of the highest concentrations of seniors in the U.S. Many retirees value the predictable out-of-pocket costs, additional benefits, and simplified structure of Medicare Advantage plans.
Enrollment tends to be highest among individuals:
- Seeking consolidated healthcare coverage under one plan
- Wanting access to supplemental benefits such as dental or vision care
- Looking for affordable options with lower monthly premiums
Comparing Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare
While Original Medicare offers broad nationwide coverage, it does not include prescription drugs or many routine benefits without added supplemental policies. Medicare Advantage plans, by contrast, provide an integrated approach to healthcare through managed networks (HMO, PPO, or PFFS structures).
Those who frequently travel or live part-time in different states may prefer Original Medicare’s portability, while those who want coordinated care and predictable expenses often find Medicare Advantage more manageable.
For additional insight, check out the Owen Insurance Group’s explanation of Medicare Advantage plan benefits.
Costs and Coverage Considerations
Although the average premium for Medicare Advantage plans in Florida is around $2 per month, total costs depend on plan structure, service area, and healthcare usage. Beneficiaries should consider:
- Network restrictions: Verify that preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network.
- Copays and deductibles: Understand what services require additional out-of-pocket payments.
- Prescription coverage: Check that medications are included in the plan’s formulary.
- Extra benefits: Many plans include wellness, transportation, or telehealth options.
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP),which is currently active and runs from October 15 to December 7, allows beneficiaries to review and adjust coverage. It can be a lifesaver for many to use this time to review their coverage, adjust their plan, get supplemental, and much more, For detailed guidance on navigating AEP, visit our guide here.
Plan Ratings and Quality
Each year, CMS releases Star Ratings for Medicare Advantage plans, assessing quality of care, customer satisfaction, and performance. Several carriers operating in Florida have earned 4- or 5-star ratings for 2026, according to Becker’s Payer Issues. These ratings help beneficiaries evaluate plan performance when reviewing options.
Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan in Florida
Here are a few steps to guide your decision:
- Assess your health needs: Identify medical conditions or services you use regularly.
- Compare available plans in your county: Use the Medicare Plan Finder for side-by-side comparisons.
- Review provider networks: Confirm that your preferred physicians and specialists are included.
- Evaluate plan extras: Consider coverage for prescriptions, dental, or hearing care.
If you’re comparing plans or considering switching coverage, Owen Insurance Group’s resource on how to take advantage of the Medicare AEP offers additional educational insight.
Final Thoughts
Medicare Advantage plans in Florida continue to expand, giving beneficiaries flexibility and choice in how they receive healthcare. Whether you prioritize cost, convenience, or specific benefits, exploring available plans each year ensures you stay aligned with your healthcare goals and budget.