Ask HN: US Health Care for Independent Contractor

So I'm an independent contractor in Canada and I think my wife and I have fallen in love with California. Without dealing with cost of living adjustments I'm curious how independent contractors deal with health care - we're a family of 4 and my wife does not work but is doing her PhD so that may not be for too long.

Thing is, I've chosen family time over maximum income so it is possible that health care prohibits us from moving until my wife can work (visa issies aside for now).

Thanks!

We're think more Southern California but I haven't ruled out my contacts at Google and Facebook as possible job options. But I'm 42 with kids 10 and 12 and not sure if I really want to work in those environments.