The official 2027 Medicare Advantage plans for Texas have not been released yet — CMS publishes plan details, premiums, and star ratings in early fall 2026, and Open Enrollment runs October 15 to December 7 (learn more about lincoln financial annuity review: all products rated & compared (2026)) (learn more about medicare advantage vs medicare supplement) (learn more about medicare cost calculator) (learn more about how to apply for medicare in 2026: a step-by-step guide) (learn more about allianz index advantage annuity review: independent analysis (2026)) (learn more about annuity surrender charges: what you need to know), 2026. Based on Texas's largest and most consistently top-rated carriers, the plans most likely to lead in 2027 are UnitedHealthcare (AARP), Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, Wellcare, Cigna, and — in the Houston area — KelseyCare Advantage. This guide explains how to compare them and choose the right plan when the 2027 numbers drop.

Last updated: August 2026 | By the SeniorSimple Editorial Team | Reviewed for accuracy against CMS enrollment timelines. Educational only — not insurance advice.

If you are turning 65 in Texas or reviewing your coverage for 2027, timing matters. Insurers finalize their 2027 plans over the summer, CMS reviews them, and the details — premiums, drug formularies, provider networks, and star ratings — become public in early fall. You can compare and enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), October 15 through December 7, 2026, for coverage that begins January 1, 2027.

Here is how to think about the leading Texas carriers and what makes a plan the right fit.

How to compare Medicare Advantage plans

A low or $0 premium is only the starting point. Weigh these five factors together: your total out-of-pocket maximum, whether your doctors and hospitals are in-network, whether your prescriptions are on the plan's formulary and at what tier, extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, OTC, transportation), and the plan's CMS star rating (out of 5). A cheap plan that drops your cardiologist or your key medication is not a bargain.

Texas is a large, varied state — plan availability and networks differ sharply between Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, and rural counties — so always check plans by your specific ZIP code.

The carriers most likely to lead Texas in 2027

1. UnitedHealthcare (AARP) — Best for network size and nationwide reach

UnitedHealthcare is the largest Medicare Advantage insurer in Texas and the country, with broad networks and a wide range of $0-premium HMO and PPO options. Its AARP-branded plans are a strong default for members who want large provider access and predictable extra benefits.

2. Humana — Best for extra benefits and rural coverage

Humana consistently ranks among the top MA carriers in Texas, often with generous OTC allowances, dental coverage, and strong availability in suburban and rural counties where competition is thinner.

3. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas — Best for statewide brand and provider trust

As the state's dominant Blue plan, BCBS of Texas offers wide provider acceptance and deep Texas roots, which matters if your physicians are more comfortable with a long-established local network.

4. Aetna — Best for PPO flexibility

Aetna (a CVS Health company) tends to offer competitive PPO plans for members who want to see out-of-network providers without a referral, along with solid pharmacy integration through CVS.

5. Wellcare — Best for low-premium drug coverage

Wellcare (Centene) frequently competes on price and prescription drug value, making it worth a look for members whose priority is keeping premiums and medication costs low.

6. Cigna — Best for value HMO plans

Cigna offers competitive HMO plans in several Texas metros with meaningful supplemental benefits, a good option for members who are comfortable staying in-network.

7. KelseyCare Advantage — Best for the Houston area

For Houston-region members, KelseyCare Advantage (tied to the Kelsey-Seybold Clinic system) has earned high star ratings and strong member satisfaction. If you use or are near Kelsey-Seybold, it is often the standout local choice.

What to do before Open Enrollment

You do not have to wait passively. Before October 15, list your current doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions; note your must-have benefits; and estimate your typical annual health spending. When the 2027 plans publish, use the official Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to compare plans available in your ZIP code against that list. Confirm each plan's star rating, out-of-pocket maximum, and drug tiers before you enroll.

If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), mailed in September, which spells out exactly what is changing for 2027 — premiums, benefits, and networks can shift year to year even if the plan name stays the same.

Frequently asked questions

When can I enroll in a 2027 Medicare Advantage plan in Texas? During the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7, 2026, for coverage starting January 1, 2027.

Are the 2027 plans available now? Not yet. CMS releases 2027 plan details and star ratings in early fall 2026.

How do I compare plans in my area? Use the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov and enter your ZIP code, doctors, and prescriptions.

What is the most important factor in choosing a plan? Fit — whether your doctors, hospitals, and medications are covered — combined with the out-of-pocket maximum and star rating, not just the premium.

This article is educational and not insurance advice. Plan availability, benefits, and star ratings for 2027 are set by CMS and the insurers and should be verified at Medicare.gov before you enroll.