Choosing the right Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan is essential for securing affordable and reliable healthcare in retirement. Two of the most popular and trusted options in 2025 are AARP Medicare Advantage (insured through UnitedHealthcare) and Humana Medicare Advantage.
Both insurers offer comprehensive coverage, rich supplemental benefits, and strong nationwide networks. But there are key differences in pricing, plan availability, customer service, and wellness benefits. In this article, we compare AARP Medicare Advantage vs Humana Medicare across all important categories to help you choose the right fit.
Overview: AARP Medicare Advantage (by UnitedHealthcare)
AARP Medicare Advantage plans are offered through UnitedHealthcare, the largest Medicare Advantage provider in the U.S. With over 8 million Medicare Advantage enrollees, UHC has a long-standing partnership with AARP to offer co-branded plans that combine brand trust, nationwide reach, and high member satisfaction.
Key Features:
- Plans available in all 50 states + D.C.
- Includes HMO, PPO, and SNP (D-SNP, C-SNP) plans
- Built-in prescription drug coverage in most plans (MAPD)
- $0 premium options available
- Includes dental, vision, and hearing benefits
- Renew Active® fitness program (includes brain training and gym access)
- 24/7 virtual care and house calls in select areas
- OTC and healthy food/grocery card (varies by plan)
Best For: Those seeking national coverage, AARP-brand trust, and a strong track record of quality and coordination of care.
Overview: Humana Medicare Advantage
Humana is another top Medicare Advantage insurer with over 5 million members. Known for its focus on affordability and preventive care, Humana offers a wide variety of plans and unique wellness programs designed to keep seniors active and supported.
Key Features:
- Available in 49 states (broad regional coverage)
- HMO, PPO, D-SNP, and C-SNP plans available
- $0 monthly premium plans in many areas
- Includes prescription drug coverage (MAPD)
- Go365® by Humana rewards program for healthy behaviors
- Dental (including crowns and dentures), vision, hearing included
- Flex Allowance Cards for dental/OTC in some plans
- Nationwide telehealth access and in-home care options
Best For: Individuals looking for affordable plans, rewards-based wellness programs, and enhanced dental benefits.
Side-by-Side Comparison: AARP Medicare vs Humana Medicare
| Feature | AARP Medicare Advantage (UHC) | Humana Medicare Advantage |
| Enrollment (2024) | 8+ million members | 5+ million members |
| Plan Types | HMO, PPO, D-SNP, C-SNP | HMO, PPO, D-SNP, C-SNP |
| Prescription Drug Coverage | Included in most plans (MAPD) | Included in most plans (MAPD) |
| Monthly Premiums | $0 – $60+ | $0 – $50+ |
| Dental Coverage | Yes, basic in most plans | Yes, includes advanced care in some plans |
| Vision & Hearing | Included | Included |
| OTC/Grocery Card | Yes (in many plans) | Yes (Flex Allowance in select plans) |
| Fitness Program | Renew Active® | SilverSneakers® + Go365® rewards |
| Telehealth/Virtual Care | 24/7 virtual visits | 24/7 telehealth and in-home visits |
| CMS Star Ratings (2024) | 4.0 – 5.0 stars (many high-rated plans) | 3.5 – 4.5 stars (depends on region) |
| Customer Service | Strong AARP-backed reputation | High customer satisfaction, regional support |
Cost Comparison (2025 Overview)
| Cost Category | AARP Medicare Advantage | Humana Medicare Advantage |
| Monthly Premium | $0 – $60+ | $0 – $50+ |
| Part B Giveback | Available in select plans | Offered in many areas |
| Primary Care Copay | $0 – $20 | $0 – $15 |
| Specialist Copay | $25 – $50 | $25 – $40 |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $3,000 – $7,550 (in-network) | $3,400 – $6,700 (in-network) |
Key Differences
1. Brand Reputation
- AARP/UHC leverages AARP’s senior-focused branding and UnitedHealthcare’s scale and reputation.
- Humana is a long-standing Medicare provider with an excellent track record for preventive care and value.
2. Wellness Programs
- AARP plans come with Renew Active®, offering brain training, gym access, and health classes.
- Humana offers SilverSneakers® and Go365®, which rewards members with gift cards for healthy behavior.
3. Dental Benefits
- Humana often provides more comprehensive dental including root canals, crowns, and dentures.
- AARP/UHC typically offers essential dental but varies by plan and region.
4. Plan Extras
- Both offer OTC benefits, grocery cards, and telehealth, but Humana’s Flex Allowance can be used more broadly depending on the plan.
Pros and Cons
AARP Medicare Advantage:
Pros:
- Available in all 50 states
- Strong national provider network
- High CMS Star Ratings
- AARP-backed trust and resources
Cons:
- Dental coverage may be limited in some regions
- Extra benefits vary by ZIP code
Humana Medicare Advantage:
Pros:
- Strong focus on affordability and wellness
- Enhanced dental options in many plans
- Flex Allowance and Go365® rewards
- High satisfaction for local customer service
Cons:
- Star Ratings may vary more between regions
- Not available in every ZIP code
Who Should Choose What?
Choose AARP Medicare Advantage (UHC) if:
- You want nationwide access and long-term reliability
- You value high CMS Star Ratings and AARP-endorsed service
- You’re looking for brain health and holistic wellness support
Choose Humana Medicare Advantage if:
- You want comprehensive dental benefits
- You enjoy earning rewards for healthy behavior
- You live in a region where Humana has strong local partnerships
Both AARP Medicare Advantage and Humana Medicare offer robust, high-quality Medicare Advantage plans tailored to the needs of seniors in 2025. Your decision should depend on your health priorities, dental needs, budget, and provider preferences.
Always:
- Compare plans using Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder Tool
- Check CMS Star Ratings
- Review your local provider networks and formularies