Texas Sees Record Enrollment in Affordable Care Act Plans for 2026

The number of Texans enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) health care plans has reached an all-time high for 2026, with an increase of nearly 150,000 enrollees compared to the previous year. According to data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a total of 4,113,465 Texans had signed up for ACA plans as of January 12, 2026. This surge comes at a time when national enrollment figures have declined by approximately 800,000, representing a 3.5 percent decrease.

This rise in Texas enrollment contrasts sharply with the national trend. While many states are experiencing a decline, the Lone Star State’s numbers highlight a significant local demand for affordable health coverage. The increase follows recent discussions around the expiration of subsidies introduced during the Biden administration, which have affected affordability for many consumers across the country.

Enrollment Trends Amid National Decline

The total enrollment figures indicate a notable shift in Texas, especially considering that the previous year’s total was 3,966,226. The increase of 147,239 enrollees in Texas reflects a growing reliance on ACA plans as costs have risen nationally. The drop in national enrollment has been attributed to fewer new sign-ups and a notable number of consumers opting not to renew their 2025 plans. This includes sign-ups through January 3, 2026 for states utilizing Healthcare.gov, and through December 27, 2025 for those with State-Based Exchanges (SBEs).

Most states have extended their enrollment periods until January 15, 2026, for plans beginning in February, offering consumers additional time to explore their options.

Local Legislation Supporting Affordability

The nonprofit organization Texas 2036 suggests that the state may be well-positioned to maintain ACA affordability despite the expiration of enhanced tax credits. A law passed in 2021, known as Senate Bill 1296, allows Texas residents to benefit more significantly from federal subsidies compared to those living in states without similar provisions. This legislation is seen as a potential stabilizing factor for residents who rely on federal support to afford health coverage.

According to Texas 2036, approximately 3.1 million Texans enrolled in ACA plans will have access to at least one $0 premium plan this year. These enrollees generally earn at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, which is roughly $30,000 for individuals and $60,000 for a family of four.

This combination of rising enrollment and supportive state policies highlights Texas’s unique position in the ongoing national conversation about health care access and affordability. As enrollment deadlines approach, it remains critical for residents to understand their options under the ACA and the implications of recent changes at the federal level.

Information in this article comes from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Texas 2036, and various local news reports.