The Local Health Landscape
Monterey County splits its Medicare population between the Salinas Valley's agricultural communities and the Peninsula's retiree enclaves.
Hospitals Serving Monterey County
- Salinas Valley Health Medical Center, Salinas
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (Montage Health)
- Natividad Medical Center, Salinas
Local Access Note
Peninsula and Salinas networks don't fully overlap — Carmel and Pacific Grove residents should verify Montage access; Salinas residents, SVH and Natividad.
Medicare Plan Types Available in Monterey County
Beneficiaries here choose among Medicare Advantage (Part C), standalone Part D drug plans, and Medigap supplements — availability and pricing are zip-code specific.
Find a Medicare Agent in Salinas
Licensed Medicare agents serving Monterey County can help you compare plans and enroll at no cost to you. They’re familiar with the specific plans available in the Salinas area and throughout Monterey County.
Find an Agent in Monterey County →
Compare Plans in Monterey County
Enter your zip code to see Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap plans available in Monterey County.
Compare Plans at PlanMatch.com →
Senior Services in Monterey County
- HICAP (Free Medicare Counseling): Call 1-800-434-0222 to reach your local Monterey County HICAP office
- Area Agency on Aging: Contact your local AAA for senior programs, Meals on Wheels, and transportation assistance
- In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS): Apply through Monterey County Department of Social Services
- Medi-Cal: Apply through your county office or at CoveredCA.com
Key Medicare Information
- Medicare Advantage plans — All-in-one coverage, many $0 premium options
- Medigap plans — Supplement Original Medicare, California birthday rule applies
- Part D drug plans — $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap in 2026
- Medi-Cal dual eligibility — Extra benefits for low-income beneficiaries
- Medicare Savings Programs — Help with premiums and cost-sharing
Monterey County Quick Facts
Largest city: Salinas
Population: 439K residents
Region: Central Coast
2026 Part B Premium: $202.90/month
Free counseling: HICAP at 1-800-434-0222