COBRA vs ACA in Georgia: which costs less?

What a single adult would pay in Georgia

Coverage in 2026, the $615 benchmark plan and the IRS table. Estimates; the calculator takes your own numbers.

The benchmark plan rose $122 a month ($1,464 a year) from 2025 to 2026. People under the 400% line were not charged for that: their credit grew to cover it. People above it paid it all. For 2027 coverage the line moves to $63,840 for one person, where a credit of about $71 a month would still be lost if the 2026 benchmark price held.

Georgia compared

Georgia ranks 24 of 51 on 2026 benchmark premium; 27 cost less. Georgia runs its own marketplace. Medicaid is not expanded, but adults up to 100% of the poverty line are covered through a waiver, so most adults do not fall into a coverage gap.

• Washington $612 a month, Medicaid expanded
• Wisconsin $611 a month, Medicaid not expanded
• District of Columbia $610 a month, Medicaid expanded
• New Mexico $623 a month, Medicaid expanded

Questions about COBRA vs ACA in Georgia

Is the ACA Marketplace cheaper than COBRA in Georgia?

It is if your income is low enough for a premium tax credit. In Georgia the average benchmark plan for a 40-year-old costs $615 a month in 2026 before any credit. A single adult at 150% of the poverty line ($23,475 a year) would pay about $82 a month for it after the credit; at 350% ($54,775) about $455. Above $62,600 there is no credit and the plan costs its full price. Compare with the COBRA premium on your own notice.

What does crossing the 400% line cost in Georgia?

For a single adult with 2026 coverage, earning one dollar over $62,600 removes a credit of about $95 a month ($1,145 a year) on the $615 benchmark plan. For 2027 coverage the line moves to $63,840.

What if my income is very low in Georgia?

Georgia has not expanded Medicaid. Adults up to 100% of the poverty line are covered through a waiver, and credits start at 100%, so there is no gap for most adults. Check the waiver’s rules with the state.