Health insurance costs rise for American workers, especially in small businesses

A recent survey by healthcare research nonprofit KFF shows that Americans relying on employer-sponsored health insurance are paying more for coverage in 2026, WSLS reported.

The 2026 Employer Health Benefits Survey found that covered workers are contributing hundreds of dollars more toward their premiums compared to last year, with costs particularly high for employees at small businesses with 10 to 99 workers.

Employees at smaller companies typically bear a larger portion of insurance costs than those at larger firms, according to the survey.

Rising healthcare costs have become a key concern for voters in the upcoming midterm elections, with an AP-NORC poll indicating about 70% of registered voters consider healthcare one of the most important issues.

Nearly 157 million Americans under retirement age depend on employer-sponsored health insurance, highlighting the broad impact of increasing premiums.