WASHINGTON, D.C. — March 12, 2026 — A new study reveals that about one in three U.S. adults—over 82 million people—have made sacrifices in daily life to cover healthcare costs in the past year. Most report rationing prescriptions (15%) or borrowing money (15%).
This issue hits the hardest for low-income households, with 55% of those earning under $24,000 a year facing these trade-offs. Surprisingly, even among those earning between $90,000 and $120,000, 25% are also making tough choices. Eleven percent of households earning over $240,000 report similar struggles.
The findings come from a recent survey of nearly 20,000 U.S. adults conducted from June to August 2025. It showed that 47% of respondents worry they can’t afford necessary healthcare this year—the highest level of concern since 2021.
Tim Lash, President of West Health Policy Center, emphasized, “When families from all income levels have to choose between health bills and basic expenses, it’s a systemic failure, not just poor budgeting.” West Health is working with policymakers to find lasting solutions to this crisis.
Impact on Life Decisions
Another survey from West Health-Gallup found that healthcare expenses are causing many Americans to put key life events on hold. Twenty-six percent have delayed surgical treatments, 18% have considered changing jobs, and 14% are postponing home purchases. Even retirement plans are affected: 9% of adults have delayed that important step, and 6% are putting off starting a family.
Joe Daly, a partner at Gallup, remarked, “These findings show a clear link between healthcare costs and major life decisions. They reveal how financial stress in healthcare impacts broader financial planning.” Nearly half of adults earning between $48,000 and $180,000 have postponed a significant life choice in recent years. Even 34% of those making $180,000 to $240,000 report similar delays.
Among those who see healthcare costs as a “major burden,” 78% have postponed life choices, compared to 50% of those viewing costs as minor. This illustrates how healthcare expenses ripple through both daily living and long-term planning for Americans.
Recent statistics underscore this issue further. A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that healthcare spending in the U.S. reached approximately $4.1 trillion in 2021, reflecting 19.7% of the GDP. Almost one in four adults say they struggle to pay medical bills, highlighting an ongoing trend of financial anxiety related to healthcare.
Conclusion
As healthcare costs continue to rise, many Americans face difficult choices that affect their well-being and future plans. Addressing these financial pressures is essential for improving the overall quality of life in the U.S. and ensuring everyone can access the care they need without significant sacrifice.
For more insights, visit the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America for ongoing research and analysis.
