Rising health care costs continue to strain American workers even when they have employer-sponsored insurance, according to research released recently by KFF and the Commonwealth Fund. The average annual family health insurance premium now stands at $28,000, with workers contributing approximately $7,000 per year while employers cover the remainder. For perspective, this total premium cost equals the price of a new automobile annually.
A KFF survey of nearly 2,000 employers found that family health insurance premiums increased 5%, representing a slowdown compared to historical growth rates. However, the portion of premiums paid directly by workers grew at a faster rate of 9%, potentially signaling a shift in cost-sharing toward employees. Experts note that even a 5% increase on such substantial figures creates meaningful financial burden, with workers often dedicating significant portions of their income to insurance expenses.
Despite having health coverage through their jobs, workers face substantial out-of-pocket expenses. According to a Commonwealth Fund survey titled “The State of Health Insurance Coverage in 2026,” approximately 43% of insured workers reported forgoing health care due to cost considerations over the past year, and about 31% reported carrying medical debt. These findings underscore how high deductibles and cost-sharing requirements limit access to care even among the insured population.
The research also highlighted concerning coverage trends. The overall uninsured rate increased over the previous two years, attributed partly to the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans and the conclusion of pandemic-related Medicaid protections. Additional coverage losses are anticipated when work requirements for Medicaid take effect. Survey data indicates strong public support for government intervention, with nearly three-quarters of respondents believing the federal government bears responsibility for ensuring all Americans have health coverage, including 45% of Republicans.
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