Obama Care

On average across all comers, a benchmark "silver" plan will cost $373 a month in California, $328 in Florida and $305 in Texas.

For example, a family of four in Jackson, Miss., with an income of $50,000 would have to pay $1,200 a month for a "silver" plan if they didn't qualify for government help -- although they'd pay just $282 after the federal tax credit they almost certainly would qualify for. For the cheapest "bronze" plans, the average deductible was $5,000. The federal government will pay for part of the premiums. The government will help pay the premiums for anyone making up to about $46,000 for an individual and as much as $94,000 for a family of four.The law caps out-of-pocket payments to a maximum of $6,350 annually for an individual, or $12,700 for a family.

Doesn't sound like a good deal.

The penalty for not having insurance, which is $95 or 1 percent of household income, whichever is greater, rather than buying coverage.

Moderate-income Americans, who will be eligible for subsidized coverage but who must still pay between 6 percent to 9.5 percent of their income toward monthly premiums, are likely to have the hardest time affording the policies.