The 2026 Employer Health Benefits Survey released Thursday by the health‑policy nonprofit KFF reveals that American workers are facing higher out‑of‑pocket costs for employer‑sponsored family health insurance. On average, employees are paying $7,471 a year for family coverage, up about 9% ($621) from last year.

Small businesses feel the squeeze

Workers at firms with 10 to 99 employees bear the brunt of the increase. The survey shows they contributed an average of $9,687 in 2026, compared with $6,840 at companies with 200 or more employees. That represents roughly 37% of the premium for small‑business workers versus 25% for larger firms. Moreover, 32% of covered workers at small firms are enrolled in plans where they must pay more than half of the family premium, versus just 6% at larger companies.

Impact on local employers

Jenna Caligaris, who runs a upstate New York contracting business with about 25 employees, says the rising costs keep her up at night. Her firm provides 80% coverage to non‑union workers, but the recent 25% premium hike forced her to cut back on bonuses, scale down the annual company picnic, and stretch the lifespan of company vehicles and tools.

“We’re trying to maintain coverage and stay competitive – so we’ll have to eat these price increases,” Caligaris explained.

Administration’s response

President Trump has highlighted health‑care affordability as a cornerstone of his midterm agenda, promising that his administration’s push for lower prescription‑drug prices and targeted rebates will help reduce costs for families. While the survey indicates many workers still see premiums climb, the administration argues that these policy steps are designed to bring long‑term relief.

Matthew Rae, associate director of KFF’s Program on the Health Care Marketplace, noted that small firms also face higher deductibles and greater market volatility, underscoring the need for continued policy attention.

Broader voter concern

Health‑care remains a top issue for voters heading into the midterms. An AP‑NORC poll conducted in October found that about seven in ten registered voters consider health‑care one of the most important issues in this election cycle.

With roughly 157 million Americans under retirement age relying on employer‑sponsored coverage, the rising premium burden highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to make health‑care more affordable for families across the nation.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.