COBRA costs more than my rent, what did you do? - what worked for you?

I just got my COBRA paperwork and the deadline to decide is close. There are 13 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. My old employer will not help with the premium.

Check what the notice says about the election period and when coverage starts. Mine allowed a short window to choose.

I priced both side by side: total yearly cost, doctors in network and the deductible. Marketplace was cheaper for us, but only because our doctors were covered.