AOK vs. Barmer — comparison
AOK is regional and the largest. Barmer is national and known for prevention programmes. Different fits for different members.
Where each wins
AOK — local service strength
Regional branches, local advisors, deeper integration with regional doctors.
Barmer — prevention programmes
Strong Bonusprogramme, fitness app integrations, generous prevention rewards.
Zusatzbeitrag
AOK 2.47% to 3.50% depending on the region. Barmer 3.29% nationwide in 2026. Both sit around or above the statutory average of 2.9%.
Both have free family insurance
Standard for all public Krankenkassen — non-working spouse + children covered free.
Above €77,400 the real question is not AOK or Barmer
Choosing between two Krankenkassen only matters while you are tied to the public system. Employees above the 2026 threshold of €77,400 gross a year, the self-employed and civil servants can leave it altogether, usually for wider cover at a lower premium, with the employer still paying half. Sixty seconds tell you whether that applies to you.
Common questions
Related guides
Two more pages that come up most often when people are at this stage.