Every example uses invented plans and the same calculation as the HSA vs PPO calculator; premiums, deductibles and employer deposits are assumptions. Put your own plan numbers in the calculator.
| Situation | Coverage | Low-use year | Mid year | Big year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single and healthy | Self-only | $400: HSA plan by about $1,785 | $2,500: HSA plan by about $185 | $9,000: PPO by about $215 |
| Family with kids | Family | $3,000: HSA plan by about $1,890 | $9,000: HSA plan by about $290 | $22,000: PPO by about $310 |
| Pregnancy and baby | Family | $12,000: HSA plan by about $290 | $25,000: PPO by about $410 | $45,000: PPO by about $410 |
| Chronic condition | Self-only | $6,000: HSA plan by about $465 | $14,000: PPO by about $535 | $30,000: PPO by about $2,835 |
| High earner | Self-only | $1,500: HSA plan by about $2,495 | $6,000: HSA plan by about $1,295 | $15,000: HSA plan by about $995 |
| Near retirement (55 to 64) | Self-only | $2,000: HSA plan by about $2,742 | $7,000: HSA plan by about $1,942 | $18,000: HSA plan by about $1,542 |
| Couple, no kids | Family | $2,000: HSA plan by about $2,181 | $7,000: HSA plan by about $581 | $16,000: HSA plan by about $581 |
How to read these
- The “Medical spending” numbers are total allowed charges for the year, and each page shows the full plan table.
- Net cost includes premiums, employer HSA money and tax savings on the HSA deposit. Unspent HSA money and investment growth are not counted.
- The gap between the out-of-pocket maximums and the premium gap usually decide the result.
Also see four basic examples, HSA vs PPO explained, 2027 limits and how health plan costs work.
This is general information, not tax or insurance advice. Confirm details with your plan documents, the IRS and a qualified professional.
General education, not insurance, tax or legal advice. Figures from IRS and HHS publications; confirm with your plan documents.