J.D. Power’s 2026 Medicare Advantage rankings show quite the rollercoaster. In Tennessee, Blue Cross Blue Shield leads, while Cigna lags behind. Pennsylvania’s UPMC For Life has reigned supreme, leaving Aetna in the dust. Michigan? Blue Cross Blue Shield again. California loves Kaiser Permanente, but Georgia’s stuck with UnitedHealthcare at the top. Overall, satisfaction’s plummeting. A shocking 43% trust their plans. Want to see how your state stacks up? There’s more where this came from.
Design Highlights
- Tennessee’s Best: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee leads with a score of 690, while Cigna Healthcare ranks lowest at 613.
- Top Plan in Pennsylvania: UPMC For Life maintains the highest score of 689, with Aetna Medicare and Geisinger Gold as contenders.
- Michigan’s Leader: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan ranks first for customer satisfaction, followed by Priority Health Medicare and Aetna Medicare.
- California Rankings: Kaiser Permanente tops with a score of 665, while SCAN Health Plan closely follows at 656.
- Florida’s Performance: UnitedHealthcare leads at 621, with Humana at 620, and Freedom Health ranking third at 619.
Overview of J.D. Power’s 2026 Medicare Advantage Study
In a world where Medicare Advantage plans are supposed to make healthcare easier, J.D. Power’s 2026 Medicare Advantage Study reveals a different reality.
Conducted across 12 U.S. regions, this study is now a dozen years in the making. It’s based on feedback from 14,559 members—yes, that’s a lot of opinions.
The study measures satisfaction through eight dimensions, with trust topping the list.
But here’s the kicker: overall satisfaction has plummeted. Down 12 points from last year, and a staggering 41 points from 2024.
Only 43% of members consider their plans trusted partners. This matters because Medicare covers only two-thirds of medical expenses, leaving retirees exposed to significant out-of-pocket costs that can erode fixed incomes over time.
What Are the Top Medicare Advantage Plans in Tennessee?
Tennessee’s Medicare Advantage scene isn’t just about numbers; it’s about real people feeling real frustrations.
In the 2026 J.D. Power study, the rankings reveal a clear winner and a not-so-great option.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee: Topped the charts with a score of 690. They’re the best of the best.
- Humana: Came in second, but let’s be honest, they’re trailing at 647. Not exactly a close race.
- Cigna Healthcare: The bottom dweller, scraping the barrel with a score of 613. Ouch.
- UnitedHealthcare: Didn’t make the spotlight but is in the mix.
With over 56% of 2024 plans rated 4 stars or higher, you’d think choices would be better. But, here we are. Tennessee seniors should also be aware that plan terminations and exits have left nearly three million beneficiaries nationwide scrambling for coverage heading into 2026.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Pennsylvania
Medicare Advantage plans in Pennsylvania are a mixed bag, but one name stands out: UPMC For Life. With a solid score of 689 in J.D. Power’s rankings, it’s the top dog for four years running. Impressive, right?
Other contenders like Aetna Medicare and Geisinger Gold also strut their stuff, but UPMC takes the cake. There are 334 options out there, with some costing as little as $0. Yes, you read that right—$0 premium plans are a thing! Additionally, all Medicare-eligible individuals have access to these affordable options. Furthermore, 29 Medicare Advantage plans are offered by 12 different insurers, providing a variety of choices to meet diverse needs.
But don’t get too comfortable; network availability varies by county, so check your options. In a state where costs range from $0 to $231, knowing what you’re getting can make all the difference. Pennsylvanians who qualify for low-income assistance programs may also be eligible for Medicare Savings Programs that can further reduce or eliminate Part B premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
UPMC For Life? Clearly, it’s the winner.
Top Medicare Advantage Options in Michigan
When it comes to Medicare Advantage options, Michigan has a lot to offer—or a lot to sift through, depending on how you look at it. In 2026, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan flexed its muscles, snagging the top spot in customer satisfaction. This recognition is particularly impressive because BCBSM has now been ranked No. 1 in customer satisfaction for two consecutive years.
But don’t stop there. Here are some other remarkable players:
- Priority Health Medicare – Still a major contender, with solid ratings.
- Aetna Medicare – Known for a top-scoring PPO plan.
- Humana – Featuring a 4.5-star PPO plan that’s hard to ignore.
- HAP Senior Plus – A solid option among the higher-rated plans.
With 192 plans available, Michigan’s got choices galore. An average monthly premium of $16.56 means that many beneficiaries can find a plan that fits their budget. Adding to the good news, federal projections estimate over $7 billion in savings annually for Medicare beneficiaries, which could further ease the financial burden for Michigan enrollees.
Just watch where you’re shopping—ZIP codes matter!
Who Leads California’s Medicare Advantage Rankings?
How does California stack up in the Medicare Advantage game? Pretty well, it seems. Kaiser Permanente takes the crown in 2026, scoring a solid 665 in J.D. Power’s rankings. That’s three years running for this healthcare giant.
Right behind it is SCAN Health Plan, not far off with a score of 656. Let’s be real—these two are like the rockstars of California’s Medicare scene, leaving the competition in the dust. With over 7 million beneficiaries and a market bustling with 402 plans, you’d think it’d be a free-for-all. But nope! Kaiser and SCAN are clearly the top dogs.
Others like Aetna and Humana? Not quite the same vibe. Simple as that. Moreover, top providers such as UnitedHealthcare and Humana also play significant roles in the state’s Medicare landscape. Notably, UnitedHealthcare has faced scrutiny for its prior authorization denial rates, which reached as high as 71% for long-term care hospital requests—far above the 16-insurer average of 42%.
Top Medicare Advantage Plans in Georgia
Georgia’s Medicare Advantage scene is buzzing, and it’s hard to miss the action. With a whopping 180 plans available, choices abound.
But here are the clear frontrunners:
- UnitedHealthcare – Crowned the top plan for the third year, scoring 656. Impressive, huh?
- Aetna Medicare – Snagged second place with a respectable score of 628. They’re not slacking.
- Humana – Often mentioned in positive reviews, holding its ground.
- Kaiser Permanente – Along with Blue Cross Blue Shield, they’ve made their mark on Georgia’s competitive market.
Despite the excitement, satisfaction is slipping. Only 43% of members feel their plans are trustworthy. A bit concerning, right? Additionally, all Medicare-eligible individuals in Georgia can access a zero-premium plan, which adds to the appeal of the available options. Notably, Kaiser Permanente’s 4.5-star rating highlights its strong performance in care coordination.
Satisfaction is waning, with only 43% of members trusting their Medicare Advantage plans—definitely a cause for concern.
The landscape is vibrant, but trust issues linger.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in North Carolina
North Carolina’s Medicare Advantage landscape is buzzing with competition, and it’s hard to ignore the numbers.
UnitedHealthcare reigns supreme, snagging the top satisfaction score of 645 for the third year running. Impressive, right? Humana follows closely with a score of 637.
Meanwhile, there are 175 plans to choose from, giving everyone at least one shot at a $0-premium option. But don’t get too comfy—availability varies by county, so your neighbor’s plan might not be yours.
The average premium dropped to $12.86, which is a nice change from last year. Over 2.2 million beneficiaries in North Carolina rely on these plans for their healthcare needs. Additionally, 100% of residents with Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage plan with a $0 monthly premium.
Blue Cross NC and Aetna are also in the mix, but let’s face it: UnitedHealthcare and Humana are the real headliners in North Carolina’s Medicare Advantage scene.
Leading Medicare Advantage Providers in Texas
Texas is a heavyweight in the Medicare Advantage arena, boasting an impressive 426 plans for 2026. With a plethora of choices, it’s like a buffet—except you might end up with a plateful of confusion. Here are the standout providers:
- Humana – The top dog, scoring 641 in satisfaction. People love it.
- UnitedHealthcare – Coming in hot at 628, it’s a major player with tons of plans.
- Aetna Medicare – Third place with 624, strong in big cities. Not too shabby.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas – A go-to for folks in rural areas. Reliable, like your trusty pickup.
With over 25 carriers in the mix, Texas is the Wild West of Medicare Advantage. In 2026, Texas will have an increase in available plans, contributing to the competitive landscape. This competitiveness is further enhanced by flex cards, OTC credits, and grocery allowances that help beneficiaries reduce everyday costs. Buckle up!
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Ohio
Ohio’s Medicare Advantage scene is a mixed bag, with 212 plans in play for 2026. J.D. Power’s ranking puts Aetna Medicare at the top, scoring a solid 639. Not too shabby, right? Hot on its heels is Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, at 659.
The average monthly premium? Just $13.54—good luck finding a decent lunch for that! Zero-premium plans are available, making it a bit easier for everyone. In fact, all Medicare-eligible individuals have access to a $0-premium plan. With 38 Medicare Advantage plans available, there’s plenty to choose from to fit individual needs.
NerdWallet’s favorites include Humana and UPMC for Life, among others. But don’t get too cozy; satisfaction scores vary widely.
With options galore, Ohio’s market is competitive, but it’s a jungle out there. Remember, one size doesn’t fit all, so tread carefully through these Medicare waters.
Top Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois
Maneuvering the Medicare Advantage landscape in Illinois can feel like a game of musical chairs—there are options, but not all of them are winners. The J.D. Power 2026 rankings reveal some clear front-runners.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois – Ranked highest with a score of 638, proving they know how to keep customers happy.
- UnitedHealthcare – A close second with 629, but not quite stealing the spotlight.
- Aetna Medicare Advantra – Offers competitive PPO options, even if premiums vary wildly.
- Humana – Also makes the cut, showing that competition is alive and well.
With 157 plans available, choosing isn’t easy. Over 2.4 million beneficiaries rely on these plans to find the best fit for their healthcare needs. But hey, at least there’s a $0 premium option for everyone! Additionally, many plans provide bundled hospital and medical coverage, highlighting the comprehensive nature of these offerings.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Kentucky
What makes a Medicare Advantage plan stand out in Kentucky? Well, in 2026, it’s all about Humana. Scoring 625 in J.D. Power’s satisfaction survey, they’re the clear favorite. UnitedHealthcare trails behind with a score of 606. Not exactly a photo finish, right?
Kentucky folks have options—108 plans to choose from, with many boasting rock-bottom premiums. Some are even free. But don’t get too comfy; deductibles and out-of-pocket costs can still bite. In fact, nearly 1 million people in Kentucky are enrolled in Medicare, highlighting the importance of making informed choices. The average MOOP for HMO plans is $5,109, which can significantly impact overall costs.
The average star rating? A mediocre 3.7. So, while Humana shines, the overall satisfaction is slipping. It’s a mixed bag for sure. But hey, at least there are choices, even if some plans are just “meh.”
Welcome to Kentucky’s Medicare maze!
Medicare Advantage Rankings for Florida and New York
When it comes to Medicare Advantage plans, Florida and New York are playing a whole different game than Kentucky.
In Florida, UnitedHealthcare takes the crown with a solid score of 621, followed closely by Humana at 620, and Freedom Health at 619. The competition is tight, but Aetna Medicare? Yeah, they’re sitting at the bottom with a dismal 580.
In New York, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is the top dog for the fourth year running, scoring 618. Healthfirst follows, and then there’s Humana again, scraping the bottom with a lowly 554.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Florida: UnitedHealthcare – 621
- Florida: Humana – 620
- Florida: Freedom Health – 619
- New York: Excellus BCBS – 618
