Aetna vs. Humana Medicare Supplement Plans

When choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan in 2025, two of the most recognized carriers in the market are Aetna and Humana.

Both companies are well-established, reputable insurers with strong brand recognition and long-standing experience in the Medicare space.

While the federal government standardizes Medigap benefits – meaning Plan G or Plan N will provide the same coverage regardless of carrier – there are important differences in areas like:

• Monthly premiums
• Rate stability over time
• Underwriting practices and acceptance rates
• Company experience and financial strength

Historically, Aetna has been one of the most competitive carriers in the Medigap market, frequently offering affordable premiums and solid rate stability in many states.

In contrast, Humana traditionally focused more heavily on Medicare Advantage plans.

However, in the last couple of years, Humana has shifted its strategy and begun introducing stronger Medigap pricing, making it a more serious competitor in the supplement space.

Rate stability and long-term carrier reliability are more important than ever, especially in light of recent market shakeups. Several companies – including ACE and Allstate – have exited the Medigap market, leaving policyholders confused and worried.

This has underscored the importance of selecting a Medigap carrier with a proven track record of commitment and stability in the Medicare Supplement space.

Let’s jump in with a general overview of each provider.

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Aetna Medicare Supplement Overview

Aetna has built a strong reputation as one of the most trusted names in the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) market.

With a long history in health coverage and a wide national footprint, Aetna offers seniors a reliable set of options to fill the gaps in Original Medicare.

Plan Options

Aetna’s Medigap lineup includes all of the most popular choices:

• Plan G: The go-to plan for comprehensive coverage, taking care of nearly all costs left behind by Medicare except the Part B deductible.

• Plan N: A lower-cost alternative to Plan G, which still covers major expenses but adds small copays for doctor and ER visits and doesn’t cover Part B excess charges.

• High-Deductible Plan G: A budget-friendly option for those who prefer a much lower premium in exchange for paying the Part B deductible and other Medicare cost-sharing until the annual deductible ($2,870 in 2025) is met.

These plans allow beneficiaries to choose between full coverage, balance-of-cost savings, or ultra-low premiums.

Where Aetna Stands Out

Aetna’s Medigap policies are available in many states, often with competitive pricing.

They also offer:

• Household Discounts: These are available in many areas, providing extra savings when two people in the same home enroll.

• Broad Availability: Aetna is licensed to sell Medigap in most states, giving it a wide reach.

• Digital Tools and Support: Member portals, mobile apps, and online resources make tracking claims and managing coverage easy.

• Rate Stability: While rate increases are inevitable in Medigap, Aetna has generally shown steady, predictable adjustments in many regions.

Our Take

For people who want a carrier with a long track record and strong national presence, Aetna remains one of the top names in Medigap.

They offer the right balance of plan variety, competitive premiums, and dependable service.

While they don’t always come out as the absolute cheapest in every state, their combination of reliability and member support tools makes them a solid choice for many retirees looking for long-term coverage they can count on.

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Humana Medicare Supplement Overview

Humana is one of the largest and most well-known names in the Medicare market.

While historically the company was more focused on Medicare Advantage plans, in recent years Humana has renewed its efforts in the Medigap space, offering competitive pricing in several states and adding attractive member benefits.

With strong brand recognition, nationwide presence, and a commitment to senior wellness, Humana has become an appealing option for retirees seeking more than just standardized coverage.

Plan Options

Humana offers a full portfolio of Medicare Supplement plans, with the most commonly selected including:

• Plan G: The most comprehensive plan available for new enrollees, covering nearly all Medicare-approved costs except the Part B deductible.

• Plan N: A lower-cost alternative with small copays for office and ER visits.

• Plan F: This plan is available to those who became Medicare-eligible before January 1, 2020, providing complete coverage of all Medicare cost-sharing.

• High-Deductible Plan G: Provides the same benefits as Plan G after an annual deductible is met, making it a low-premium option for budget-conscious beneficiaries.

This mix of options allows Humana to meet the needs of both those looking for the most coverage possible and those seeking the lowest premiums while maintaining strong protection.

Where Humana Stands Out

Humana differentiates itself with features that go beyond standardized benefits:

• Wellness Perks: Certain Humana Medigap members receive access to SilverSneakers®, one of the most popular senior fitness programs, along with discounts on vision, hearing, and other lifestyle benefits.

• Household Discounts: These are available in many states to help couples or those living with another Medicare beneficiary reduce premiums.

• Large National Footprint: Humana has a significant presence across the U.S., offering Medigap plans in multiple states with a growing competitiveness in 2024 and 2025.

• Customer Service and Member Support: Humana is consistently rated well for its emphasis on member experience. It provides multiple digital tools and a strong service network to simplify claims and billing.

Our Take

Humana has emerged as one of the more dynamic players in the Medigap market.

In several states, their Plan G and Plan N premiums are competitive with long-established carriers like Aetna and Mutual of Omaha, making them an option worth considering in 2025.

While Aetna is often praised for stability and Mutual of Omaha for brand recognition, Humana appeals to seniors who value added perks and lifestyle benefits in addition to standardized coverage. Their recent re-entry into the Medigap market with more aggressive pricing suggests they’re serious about competing long-term.

For retirees who want affordable premiums, fitness and wellness extras, and strong support, Humana Medicare Supplement plans are a solid choice – especially in states where their new competitive rates make them one of the lower-cost carriers.

Aetna vs. Humana: Company Similarities

While there are differences in pricing, perks, and company history, it’s important to remember that Medicare Supplement plans are standardized by law.

This means that no matter which company you choose, the core benefits of each plan letter are identical.

Here are some similarities between the two companies:

#1. Standardized Benefits by Plan Letter – Plan G from Aetna covers the exact same benefits as a Plan G from Humana. The only differences are in the monthly premium, discounts, and any added perks.

#2. Nationwide Portability – Both companies’ Medigap plans travel with you. You can see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, regardless of location.

#3. Household Discounts – Aetna and Humana offer household discounts in many states, providing savings for spouses or individuals living with another Medicare enrollee.

#4. Popular Offerings – Each company offers the three most commonly chosen Medigap options (Plan G, N, and HDG).

These similarities mean that when comparing Aetna vs. Humana, the real deciding factors usually come down to monthly cost, rate stability, and extra perks rather than the actual medical coverage.

Aetna vs. Humana: Key Differences

Although Aetna and Humana both offer strong Medicare Supplement options, there are some important differences that can help you decide which one may be a better fit.

Market History

Aetna has a long track record of competitiveness in the Medigap market, with decades of consistent offerings and competitive premiums across many states.

Humana, on the other hand, historically put most of its focus on Medicare Advantage. As a result, its Medigap premiums were often less competitive.

However, in recent years (2024–2025), Humana has made a strong push back into the Medicare Supplement market with more attractive rates, signaling a notable comeback.

Extra Perks

Humana includes popular extras like the SilverSneakers® fitness program (only with certain plans), vision and hearing discount benefits, and wellness-focused resources. These lifestyle perks appeal to many seniors who value health and fitness benefits alongside medical coverage.

Aetna, by contrast, takes a more straightforward approach. Their Medigap plans generally don’t come bundled with extras but focus instead on delivering stable, competitive coverage at solid rates.

Discount Structures

Both companies offer household discounts, but the rules, eligibility, and discount amounts vary by state.

In some areas, Aetna’s discounts may be easier to qualify for, while in others Humana’s structure may provide a better savings opportunity.

Customer Experience and Claims Handling

Aetna has built a reputation for smooth claims processing and a simple, no-frills approach to member services.

Humana emphasizes customer engagement and wellness support, offering more member resources, wellness programs, and lifestyle benefits in addition to its standard Medigap coverage.

Aetna vs. Humana: Provider Networks

Do you have to use a provider network with Aetna or Humana’s Medigap plans?

The clear answer is: No.

Both Aetna and Humana Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans allow you to see any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare. This means you aren’t restricted to a provider network, and you don’t need a referral to see a specialist.

There are also no HMO or PPO rules like you often find with Medicare Advantage plans. With Medigap, your plan will work as long as a provider accepts Medicare. This is one of the biggest advantages of Medigap over Medicare Advantage.

Remember, Medigap plans include:

• No network limitations
• No prior authorization for most services
• Nationwide access to care

For many of my clients, this flexibility is a top reason they choose a Medicare Supplement over an Advantage plan.

Aetna vs. Humana: Rate Stability

When choosing a Medicare Supplement plan, the long-term stability of rates is just as important as the first-year premium. Even a small percentage increase each year can make a big difference in what you’ll pay 5–10 years later.

Let’s look at both companies.

Aetn’a Track Record

Aetna has been in the Medigap market for decades, giving us a clearer picture of how its rates have behaved. Historically, Aetna has shown manageable and consistent premium increases, usually in line with the rest of the industry.

This long track record provides confidence that Aetna is unlikely to make sudden or dramatic changes that could surprise policyholders.

Humana’s Competitive Rates

Humana, by contrast, has only recently started to re-establish itself as a competitive Medigap carrier. In the past, their Medicare Supplement rates were often higher than the market average.

However, starting in 2024 and 2025, Humana introduced much more competitive Medigap premiums in select states, making it a stronger contender.

The challenge is that because this competitive pricing is relatively new, we don’t yet know how these rates will hold up over the next several years. While Humana’s large presence in Medicare Advantage shows that it is financially strong, its Medigap rate history is less predictable compared to Aetna’s.

Bottom Line

Aetna provides a longer history of stable Medigap rate increases. Humana offers newly competitive premiums, but it’s too soon to tell if that pricing will remain steady long term.

For many clients, I recommend considering both the current premium and the company’s history of stability before deciding, since the lowest rate today isn’t always the lowest rate five years from now.

Why Longevity in the Medigap Market Matters

When choosing a Medicare Supplement, it’s not just about today’s premium. The carrier’s long-term standing is one of the most important factors to consider.

Companies with decades of experience in the Medigap market have proven they can remain competitive while supporting policyholders over time.

Carriers like Aetna and Humana have weathered decades of market cycles and regulatory changes. Their long history in the Medicare market gives us confidence that they’ll continue offering stable products in the years to come. This predictability is a major advantage when you’re choosing coverage intended to protect you for life.

In contrast, some new companies enter the Medigap market with aggressively low rates to quickly capture business. While those premiums may look attractive in the first year or two, they don’t always last.

• Example:

  ACE and Allstate both entered the Medigap market with very low premiums to attract new enrollees.

  By summer 2025, both companies will have completely exited the Medigap market and will no longer accept applications for new policies.

When a carrier starts to exit the Medigap market, existing policyholders aren’t left without coverage right away – they can usually keep their plan as long as they pay their premiums.

However, the lack of new business often means:

• Rates increase more quickly because the risk pool is shrinking.
• Policyholders may feel forced to switch carriers, which can mean going through underwriting if they’re outside their guaranteed issue window.
• The stability and peace of mind that many people choose Medigap for in the first place is disrupted.

This is why I emphasize carrier stability to my clients. Aetna and Humana, with their long-standing presence in the Medicare market, are far safer bets than companies with flashy low rates and no proven history.

Aetna vs. Humana: Medigap Cost Comparison

Premiums for Medicare Supplement plans vary by state and ZIP code, but comparing multiple states gives us a clearer picture of each carrier’s competitiveness.

Below are sample rates from Texas, Florida, and Ohio using 2025 data for Aetna and Humana.

Texas (Sample Statewide Average)

Texas Premium Analysis:

• Plan G: Humana is 23.5% cheaper than Aetna ($756/year savings).
• Plan N: Humana is 31.5% cheaper ($696/year savings).
• High-Deductible G: Humana is 25.3% cheaper ($240/year savings).

Florida (Sample Statewide Average)

Florida Premium Analysis:

• Plan G: Humana is 14.6% cheaper than Aetna (average $492/year savings).
• Plan N: Humana is 14.7% cheaper ($300/year savings).
• High-Deductible G: Humana is also lower-cost, saving about 13.3% ($120/year).

Ohio (Statewide Example)

Ohio Premium Analysis:

• Plan G: Humana averages 6% cheaper, but costs overlap depending on which Humana entity issues the policy.
• Plan N: Humana is, on average, 3.7% cheaper, though the ranges overlap, meaning either carrier could be the better deal.
• High-Deductible G: Nearly identical – Humana averages ~3.8% cheaper, but both are very affordable.

In a nutshell:

• Texas: Humana dominates with substantially lower premiums.
• Florida: Humana again is consistently cheaper, especially on Plan G.
• Ohio: A mixed picture – both companies offering affordable rates.

Bottom line: If you’re shopping in Texas or Florida, Humana typically wins on price. In Ohio, Aetna and Humana trade places depending on the subsidiary and plan, making it essential to compare both in your ZIP code.

Aetna vs. Humana: Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re someone who values a proven track record, Aetna often makes sense. They’ve been in the Medigap market for decades and have built a reputation for stability and long-term value.

For people who are more concerned about the lowest monthly rate right now, Humana has been making a comeback with more competitive pricing in recent years, especially in certain states.

And if keeping your premiums as low as possible is the top priority, the High-Deductible Plan G can be a great option. It gives you all the same protection as a standard Plan G once you meet the deductible, but at a fraction of the monthly cost.

My Take as a Medicare Broker

I’ve helped clients choose between Aetna and Humana, depending on their situation. Some appreciate the reassurance of Aetna’s long history and stable rates, while others are drawn to Humana’s perks and more aggressive pricing in certain markets.

I always remind clients that choosing a Medicare Supplement isn’t just about who’s cheapest today.

Rate history and stability are just as important because you want a plan that will still make sense five or ten years down the line.

Final Thoughts

Both Aetna and Humana are strong choices for Medicare Supplement coverage. The real deciding factor is your ZIP code, budget, and whether you value extra perks or a long-standing reputation for stability.

The best next step is to compare both sides for your exact situation – not just the premiums, but also the long-term rate history. That way, you can feel confident you’re making the smartest choice for both today and the future.

If you’d like to compare companies and receive personal quotes, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!

FAQs

• Do Medigap premiums increase as I get older?

  In many cases, yes. Some Medigap policies are attained-age rated, meaning your premium increases as you age. Others are issue-age rated or community-rated, which handle price changes differently. It’s important to ask which rating method applies in your state when comparing Aetna and Humana.

• Are prescription drugs covered by Medigap plans?

  No. Medigap policies only cover the “gaps” in Original Medicare (like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays). To get prescription coverage, you’ll need a separate Part D plan, often from the same or a different insurer.

• Can I have both a Medigap plan and a Medicare Advantage plan?

  No. You must choose one or the other. Medigap is designed to work only with Original Medicare (Parts A & B). Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans replace Original Medicare, so Medigap doesn’t apply.

• How do pre-existing conditions affect Medigap enrollment?

  If you enroll during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the six months after you’re first eligible for Medicare Part B), you cannot be denied coverage or charged more due to pre-existing conditions. Outside that window, underwriting may apply.

• Do Aetna and Humana both offer High-Deductible Plan G everywhere?

  Not always. Availability depends on state regulations and carrier decisions. Some states may only offer Plan G and N, while others also include the high-deductible version. It’s important to check by ZIP code.

• How do I know if a Medigap carrier is financially stable?

  Look at ratings from independent agencies like A.M. Best, Moody’s, or Standard & Poor’s. Aetna and Humana both carry strong financial ratings, but these reports provide added assurance about a company’s long-term ability to pay claims.

• Will my Medigap plan cover me if I move to another state?

  Yes. Medigap plans are portable nationwide – you can see any provider who accepts Medicare across the U.S. However, premiums may change if you move, since pricing is based on your ZIP code.