Premiums for Employer-Sponsored Family Health Coverage Top $28,000 in 2026

October 22, 2026 - 23:51

The average annual premium for employer-sponsored family health coverage has broken the $28,000 mark in 2026, according to a new benchmark survey of large and small employers. The findings highlight a continued upward trend in health care costs that is putting pressure on both companies and their employees.

Workers are contributing more than ever to these plans. The average employee pays $7,471 annually toward family coverage premiums, a 9 percent increase over 2025. That jump amounts to an additional $621 coming out of workers' paychecks this year compared with last year.

The survey data points to a challenging landscape for employer-sponsored insurance. Premium growth has outpaced both wage gains and inflation in recent years, forcing many households to devote a larger share of their budgets to health care. Employers, meanwhile, are absorbing the bulk of the total premium cost, which now exceeds $28,000 for a family plan.

The rising figures raise questions about affordability and the sustainability of the current benefits model. With no sign of costs leveling off, workers and businesses alike will need to plan for continued increases in the years ahead.