Rising health-care expenses as part of an overall increase in the cost of living are forcing some Americans — including higher earners — to make tough financial choices.

In 2026, employees could see their total health benefit cost increase by 6.7% on average , pushing the average cost per employee above $18,500, according to global consulting firm Mercer. It's the steepest jump in 15 years, the firm said.

This year, premiums for families with employer-sponsored plans rose 6%, more than twice the rate of inflation, at 2.7%, and outpacing wage growth of 4%, according to KFF , a nonprofit health policy research firm. The vast majority of Americans, about 165 million people, including employees and their dependents, obtain health insurance through their employer.

It's not only the c

See Full Page