KFF survey finds US workers pay 9% more for employer-sponsored family health insurance in 2026

A new KFF survey shows that Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance are paying more for family coverage in 2026. Workers now pay an average of $7,471 annually, up 9% from last year. The increase is especially hard on employees at small businesses, who pay a larger share of premiums. The survey, released Thursday, highlights healthcare costs as a key issue in the upcoming midterm elections. Small business owners are struggling to balance benefits with rising costs, with some cutting bonuses and other perks to maintain coverage.