Is there solid data out here that this is true? My COBRA premiums last year were quoted at a bit over $1700; a Gold PPO (a slightly better plan) on Covered CA goes for $1900. This is in the range of "not that different".

What is a bit annoying for start-up founders is that health insurance premiums are only tax deductible/paid with pre-tax money if the plan is offered by your employer (may be you).