Newark, New Jersey: health insurance
Newark is in Essex County. Here is what Newark residents should know about coverage.
Coverage in Newark
Newark has about 304,960 residents (U.S. Census Bureau 2023 estimate).
Plans for Newark residents are determined by Essex County, home to about 851,117 people (2023 estimate). Medicare Advantage plans and marketplace plans are offered by area, so use your ZIP code when you compare, and make sure a plan covers Essex County before you choose it.
- Turning 65 in Newark? Your Initial Enrollment Period runs seven months around your birthday. New Jersey State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free counseling at 1-800-792-8820.
- Buying your own plan? Shop through Get Covered New Jersey.
- Medicaid questions? NJ FamilyCare (Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services) handles applications.
New Jersey note: Get Covered New Jersey is run directly by the state's insurance regulator, the Department of Banking and Insurance, and layers a state-funded subsidy (New Jersey Health Plan Savings) on top of federal premium tax credits -- a combination unique to New Jersey's marketplace.
Colleges and universities near Newark
New Jersey public institutions include Rutgers University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Montclair State University. Students and employees at these schools should check their school’s student health or benefits office, because campus plans and employer plans work differently from individual coverage. More about New Jersey colleges.
Do Newark and Essex County have the same plans?
Plans are offered by service area, and Newark falls under Essex County. A plan that serves Essex County is generally the one that applies to you.
Do I have to enroll if I call?
No. A call is a conversation about your options.
Newark residents: call 855-367-1095
Call Lander LLC to go over your options. There is no cost to call or to speak with an agent, and you are never required to enroll in anything.
Call 855-367-1095Other major New Jersey cities
Reviewed by Richard Lander, licensed insurance agent (NPN 21255551), Lander LLC. Last updated October 3, 2026. This page is educational and is not a quote, an offer of coverage, or legal or tax advice.