Singles vs Couples Health Insurance: Which Option Saves You More?
Published February 21, 2026
One of the questions that lingers in the minds of every couple is: “Would it be more economical if we just had one policy between us?” The answer to that is: Probably not.
This is because Australia’s community rating system means that all health insurance policy holders pay the same base premium for the same product, irrespective of age, gender, health, or otherwise. This means that a couples policy costs about the same as two singles policies with no discount just for being a couple.
However, while the price may not be different, the terms and flexibility options definitely are. So, let’s take a look at the key pros and cons of singles versus couples health insurance, and see which one is best for you.
What is health insurance for singles versus couples?
Insurance for Singles
This policy only covers one individual. It can be combined, hospital-only, or extras-only. You can apply for a singles policy if you’re an adult who is single, regardless of whether you live alone or with someone.
Health insurance for couples
A shared plan for two adults living together, whether married, de facto, or in a same-sex relationship, is known as a couple’s policy. You will have the same level of coverage, the same policy rules, and the same policy.
Which is cheaper: Singles or couples health insurance?
Let’s dispel a widespread misconception and that is policies for couples are not always less expensive than those for two single people. All policyholders pay the same base rate for the same amount of coverage when using community rating. Therefore, unless one of you is eligible for a higher Lifetime Health Cover loading or government rebate, in which case separate policies might save you more, the cost per person is the same whether you are sharing a policy or each have your own.
Therefore, the answer to the question, “Which is cheaper: singles or couples health insurance?” is typically the same. That being said, there are other factors to take into account when planning for the future and taking your health needs into account.
When couples’ health insurance might be better
That said, couples cover has some clear advantages too:
- Simpler payments and admin: It’s just one premium, one policy number and one lot of paperwork. This can make budgeting and tax time simpler.
- Easier to add children later: If you plan to grow your family, it’s easier to convert a couple’s policy into a family policy than juggling two singles. You’ll also keep your waiting periods if your cover stays continuous.
- Shared extras limits can work for some: On some policies, the extras limit is pooled. If one partner uses extras all the time (e.g. regular dental or physio), they can use more of the joint limit – although this could also be a disadvantage.
- You might qualify for higher rebates: Couples are assessed for the private health insurance rebate on combined income. If you’re both earning low to moderate incomes, you might get a better rebate together than separately.
Which options are Australians selecting?
Based on the most recent data on health insurance: In Australia, 21% of those with hospital insurance have couples’ coverage.
- Twenty-four percent are covered by a single policy.
- Half are covered by family insurance.
- Five percent are covered by single-parent policies.
Additionally, a total of over 15 million Australians is covered by private health insurance. This should demonstrate that, despite the popularity of couple’s insurance, a sizable portion of people continue to purchase singles policies, most likely because of the flexibility they offer.
A couple’s policy might be the best option if you and your spouse have similar health needs or intend to start a family. However, you might save money and get better value by selecting two singles policies instead if your priorities and health conditions differ, or if you are on different tiers of coverage.
