Widespread Financial Trade-Offs Among Americans Due to Healthcare Costs

A recent survey conducted by the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America reveals that approximately one in three U.S. adults, equating to over 82 million individuals, have made significant daily life compromises to manage healthcare expenses over the past year. The survey, which included nearly 20,000 respondents from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, highlights the pervasive financial strain caused by rising healthcare costs amid increasing living expenses.

ReutersOne-Third of Americans Adjusting Finances to Afford Healthcare, Study FindsGallupOne-third of Americans making financial trade-offs to pay for healthcare

The survey indicates that 33% of participants have cut back on essential daily expenses such as food and utilities to afford healthcare. This trend is particularly pronounced among uninsured individuals, with 62% reporting financial sacrifices, including borrowing money (32%) and rationing medications (24%). Even among insured individuals, nearly 30% have made similar trade-offs. The financial burden is felt across various income levels, with 55% of households earning less than $24,000 annually reporting such compromises, alongside 25% of those earning between $90,000 and $120,000.

Gallup

In addition to immediate financial impacts, healthcare costs are influencing long-term life planning. A separate survey of 5,660 adults conducted later in 2025 found that many Americans have postponed significant life events due to healthcare expenses. Notably, 26% delayed medical treatments, 18% postponed job changes, and 14% held off on purchasing new homes. Nearly 10% reported delaying retirement, while 6% postponed family planning. These findings underscore how healthcare affordability is reshaping personal and financial decisions across various demographics.

One-Third of Americans Adjusting Finances to Afford Healthcare, Study Finds

Tim Lash, president of the West Health Policy Center, emphasized the systemic nature of the issue, stating, “When families across every income level are forced to choose between medical bills and paying their heating or electric bill — that’s not a personal budgeting problem — it's a systems failure.” He advocates for policy reforms that address the root causes of unaffordable care rather than merely treating the symptoms.

One-third of Americans making financial trade-offs to pay for healthcare

Critics argue that the current healthcare financing system disproportionately affects lower-income households while also impacting middle and upper-middle-class Americans. Ellyn Maese, research director for the West Health-Gallup Center, noted that even those in higher income brackets are making difficult choices, highlighting the widespread nature of the affordability crisis.

Gallup

While the survey results indicate a significant number of Americans facing financial strain due to healthcare costs, there is a lack of consensus on the future implications. Some sources predict worsening conditions as millions may lose insurance coverage following cuts to federal support and the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies, while others emphasize the need for immediate reforms to alleviate current pressures.

CNN

The findings from the West Health-Gallup Center illustrate a growing crisis in healthcare affordability that transcends income levels and demographics. As healthcare costs continue to rise, the implications for daily living and long-term planning are profound, necessitating urgent attention from policymakers and stakeholders to reform the healthcare system and ensure access to affordable care for all Americans.

One-Third of Americans Adjusting Finances to Afford Healthcare, Study Finds