As the nation considers whether and how to reform the healthcare system, it is important to consider differences in health insurance coverage for those living in rural and urban areas. Analyses of persons under age 65 from the 2004-05 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey reveal a greater proportion of rural residents than urban residents who are uninsured or covered through public sources, especially among those living in remote areas. Rural adults are at high risk of being uninsured compared to rural children. Uninsured rates are highest among adults over age 50 in the most remote rural places. Compared to urban adults, rural adults are less likely to be in employment situations where private coverage is offered.