Average Private Health Insurance Cost UK The Latest Data for 2025
As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides this in-depth guide to the average cost of private medical insurance in the UK. We'll explore the key factors influencing premiums in 2025, helping you make an informed decision for your health and finances.
WeCovr analyses the latest UK statistics on PMI pricing, from young adults to retirees
Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel complex, especially when it comes to cost. With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant concern for millions across the UK, more people than ever are considering private health cover as a way to gain control over their healthcare, access faster treatment, and enjoy peace of mind.
But what does it actually cost?
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we break down the numbers. We’ll explore the average premiums you can expect to pay based on your age, location, and the level of cover you choose. We will also demystify the key terms and show you practical ways to find an affordable policy that meets your needs.
A Critical Point Before We Begin: Understanding What PMI Covers
It is essential to understand a fundamental principle of the UK private health insurance market. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions – diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.
PMI does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure that require ongoing management) or pre-existing conditions (any ailment you had before your policy began). We will explore this in more detail later, but it's the most important concept to grasp from the outset.
What is the Average Cost of Private Health Insurance in the UK for 2025?
The average cost of private health insurance in the UK varies widely, from as little as £30 per month for a young, healthy individual with basic cover, to over £250 per month for a comprehensive policy for someone in their late 60s.
The single biggest factor influencing your premium is your age. Insurers price policies based on risk, and statistically, the likelihood of needing medical treatment increases as we get older.
To give you a clear picture, our market analysis for 2025 provides the following illustrative monthly premiums. These figures are based on a non-smoker with no adverse medical history, choosing a mid-range policy with a £250 excess.
Illustrative UK Private Health Insurance Costs by Age (2025)
| Age Group | Average Monthly Premium (Basic Cover) | Average Monthly Premium (Comprehensive Cover) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-29 | £35 - £50 | £55 - £75 |
| 30-39 | £45 - £65 | £70 - £100 |
| 40-49 | £60 - £85 | £95 - £140 |
| 50-59 | £85 - £120 | £140 - £200 |
| 60-69 | £120 - £170 | £190 - £280 |
| 70+ | £160 - £240 | £280 - £450+ |
Disclaimer: These figures are for illustrative purposes only and are based on WeCovr's analysis of market data for 2025. Your actual quote will depend on your individual circumstances and the specific policy chosen.
As you can see, the cost ramps up significantly with each decade. However, these are just averages. The price you pay is determined by a combination of factors, which we will now explore in detail.
Key Factors That Influence Your Private Health Insurance Premium
Understanding what drives the cost of your premium is the first step to finding the right cover at the right price. Insurers use several key data points to calculate your personal quote.
1. Your Age
As shown in the table above, age is the most significant pricing factor. Insurers view older applicants as higher risk because they are statistically more likely to claim. Premiums are recalculated at each renewal, so they will increase year-on-year simply because you are a year older.
2. Your Location
Where you live in the UK has a direct impact on your premium. This is because the cost of private medical treatment varies by region.
- Central London: The most expensive area due to the high fees charged by prestigious private hospitals and consultants.
- Major Cities (Manchester, Birmingham): Typically more expensive than rural areas but cheaper than London.
- Rural Areas & Scotland/N. Ireland: Often have the lowest premiums due to lower private hospital costs.
Insurers manage this through "hospital lists," which we'll discuss shortly.
3. Your Level of Cover
This is the area where you have the most control over the cost. Policies are generally sold in three tiers:
- Basic (or Entry-Level): This is the most affordable type of private health cover. It typically includes only in-patient and day-patient treatment. This means it covers the costs if you need surgery and have to be admitted to a hospital bed, either overnight (in-patient) or just for the day (day-patient). It usually won't cover the initial consultations or diagnostic scans.
- Mid-Range (or Standard): This is the most popular choice. It includes everything in a basic plan, plus a set amount of out-patient cover. This is crucial as it pays for the specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans) needed to find out what's wrong before you are admitted to hospital.
- Comprehensive: The most expensive tier, offering extensive cover. It includes full in-patient and day-patient care, generous or unlimited out-patient cover, and often includes add-ons like mental health support, dental and optical cover, and alternative therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy etc.).
A Quick Comparison of Cover Levels
| Feature | Basic Cover | Mid-Range Cover | Comprehensive Cover |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Patient & Day-Patient Care | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Out-Patient Consultations | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Often up to a limit, e.g. £1,000) | ✅ Yes (Often unlimited) |
| Diagnostic Scans & Tests | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Often up to a limit) | ✅ Yes (Often unlimited) |
| Cancer Cover | ✅ Yes (Core treatments) | ✅ Yes (More extensive options) | ✅ Yes (Full, advanced cover) |
| Mental Health Cover | ❌ No (Or very limited) | ➕ Optional Add-on | ✅ Often Included |
| Therapies (e.g. Physio) | ❌ No | ➕ Optional Add-on | ✅ Often Included |
4. Your Policy Excess
An "excess" is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and your insurer pays the remaining £2,750.
The higher your excess, the lower your monthly premium.
Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your private medical insurance UK policy more affordable. It's a trade-off between a lower fixed monthly cost and a potentially higher one-off cost if you need to claim.
5. Your Hospital List
Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals you can use for treatment. A more restrictive list means a lower premium.
- Local List: Only includes hospitals within a specific local area. The cheapest option.
- National List: Includes hundreds of private hospitals across the UK, but excludes the most expensive ones in Central London. A good balance for most people.
- Premium / London List: Gives you access to all affiliated hospitals, including the top-tier facilities in London. The most expensive option.
6. Your Underwriting Type
This refers to how the insurer assesses your medical history. There are two main types:
- Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common method. You don't have to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simple and quick.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history upfront. The insurer's underwriting team then reviews it and tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. This provides more certainty but can take longer, and any declared conditions will likely be permanently excluded.
7. Lifestyle Factors
Your personal habits can affect your premium.
- Smoking/Vaping: This is the most significant lifestyle factor. Smokers and vapers can expect to pay anywhere from 30% to 50% more for their cover than non-smokers, as they are at a much higher risk of developing serious health conditions.
How to Reduce Your Private Health Insurance Costs in 2025
Now that you understand the pricing factors, here are some actionable steps you can take to secure affordable private health cover.
- Increase Your Excess: As mentioned, opting for a £500 or £1,000 excess can dramatically reduce your monthly payments.
- Choose a "6-Week Option": This is a popular cost-saving feature. With this option, your PMI will only cover your treatment if the NHS waiting list for that specific procedure is longer than 6 weeks. If the NHS can treat you within 6 weeks, you use the NHS. This significantly lowers your premium as it reduces the risk for the insurer.
- Select a More Limited Hospital List: If you don't live near London or don't feel you need access to the most prestigious hospitals, choosing a National or even a Local list will save you money.
- Review Your Cover Level: Do you really need comprehensive cover? A mid-range policy with good out-patient limits is often sufficient for most people's needs and offers a great balance of cover and cost.
- Pay Annually: Most insurers offer a small discount (typically around 5%) if you can pay your entire year's premium in one lump sum.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: If you're a smoker, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your health and your wallet. Some providers, like Vitality, actively reward you for being healthy with lower premiums and other perks.
- Use an Expert PMI Broker: This is arguably the most important step. A specialist broker, like WeCovr, does all the hard work for you. We compare policies from across the market to find the best provider for your specific needs and budget. Our service is completely free to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. We use our expertise to tailor the policy options, ensuring you're not paying for cover you don't need.
A Look at Private Health Insurance Costs for Different Demographics
Your life stage has a big impact on what you might look for in a policy.
For Young Professionals (20s & 30s)
- Average Cost: £35 - £100 per month.
- Why Consider It? For this group, time is money. A major benefit is avoiding long waits for diagnostics or minor surgeries that could keep you out of work. Many modern policies also come with excellent digital GP services and mental health support, which are highly valued by younger demographics.
- Smart Buys: An entry-level or mid-range plan with a 6-week option and a higher excess can make cover extremely affordable. It acts as a safety net for more serious issues. At WeCovr, we also provide all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to our AI-powered diet and calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you stay on top of your wellness goals.
For Families
- Why Consider It? Protecting your children's health is a priority for any parent. A family policy allows you to get them seen by a specialist quickly, avoiding the worry and stress of long NHS waits.
- How it Works: It is almost always cheaper to add children and a partner to a single policy rather than taking out individual plans. Insurers often have offers like "add a child for free."
- Example Cost: A healthy family of four (two adults in their late 30s, two children under 10) could expect to pay between £120 and £200 per month for a good quality mid-range policy.
For Retirees (60+)
- Average Cost: £120 - £450+ per month.
- Why Consider It? This is the age group that often sees the most value in PMI. NHS waiting times for procedures common in retirement, such as cataract surgery, hip replacements, and knee replacements, can be very long. Private cover allows you to bypass these queues, maintain your mobility, and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Key Considerations: It's crucial to check the cancer cover in detail, as this is a primary reason for claiming in this age group. Look for policies with comprehensive cancer care that includes access to drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS. Given the complexity and cost, seeking advice from an expert PMI broker is highly recommended for this demographic.
The Value Beyond the Price: Additional Benefits of Modern PMI
Today's private medical insurance is about more than just paying for operations. The best PMI providers now include a suite of wellness services designed to keep you healthy and provide everyday value.
- 24/7 Digital GP: Speak to a GP via phone or video call, often within a few hours. Get prescriptions, advice, and referrals without leaving your home.
- Mental Health Support: Access to telephone counselling, therapy sessions (face-to-face or virtual), and mental wellbeing apps.
- Second Medical Opinions: If you receive a diagnosis, you can have your case reviewed by a second world-leading expert to confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Wellness & Lifestyle Rewards: Get discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, healthy food, and even flights for staying active.
- WeCovr Client Perks: When you arrange your PMI through us, you not only get our expert guidance but also benefit from discounts on other insurance products, such as life insurance or income protection, helping you build a complete financial safety net for less.
Comparing Top UK Private Health Insurance Providers
The UK has a competitive market with several excellent insurers. Each has its own strengths.
| Provider | Key Feature / Specialism | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| AXA Health | Excellent digital tools, flexible "Personal Health" plans, and strong mental health pathways. | Individuals and businesses looking for modern, customisable cover. |
| Aviva | A large, trusted brand with an extensive hospital network and a straightforward claims process. | Those seeking reliable, traditional cover from an established name. |
| Bupa | The UK's most well-known health insurer, with its own network of hospitals and clinics (Bupa Cromwell). | Customers who value brand recognition and an integrated healthcare experience. |
| Vitality | Unique "Active Rewards" programme that reduces premiums and offers perks for healthy living. | Active individuals and families who will engage with the wellness programme to get the best value. |
The "best" provider depends entirely on you. Your age, location, budget, and priorities will determine which insurer and which policy is the right fit. This is where an independent broker like WeCovr adds immense value, comparing all these options on your behalf to find your perfect match.
Is private health insurance worth it in the UK?
Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Can I get private health insurance if I'm over 65?
How can a PMI broker like WeCovr save me money?
Take the Next Step with WeCovr
Understanding the average cost of private health insurance is the first step. The next is finding out exactly what your personalised premium would be. At WeCovr, our friendly, expert team is here to help. We provide independent, no-obligation advice to help you navigate your options and secure the best possible private health cover for your needs and budget.
Ready to protect your health? Get your free, personalised quote from WeCovr today and take control of your healthcare journey.
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.
Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!