Article Summary –
Americans are facing financial strain due to rising healthcare costs, which is exacerbated by the expiration of expanded tax credits that previously subsidized insurance premiums, leading to potential loss of health insurance coverage for many. The survey by the West Health-Gallup Center highlights that a significant portion of the population, including higher income brackets, are making financial trade-offs, such as skipping meals or delaying significant life events, to afford healthcare. Despite the broad acknowledgment of increased living costs, particularly in healthcare, a majority express dissatisfaction with Congress’s decision not to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, which has particularly affected those who previously benefited from them.
Americans are grappling with financial hardships while trying to meet the soaring health care costs, according to research published on March 11.
Conducted by the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America with West Health, the survey reveals the West Health-Gallup Affordability Index findings. Rising health insurance costs and the expiration of expanded tax credits for Affordable Care Act policies could leave many uninsured.
The study surveyed nearly 20,000 U.S. adults from June 9 to Aug. 25, 2025. About 62% said they would need to cut daily expenses—such as meals or prescriptions—to afford health care.
Those under $24,000 annually faced the most challenges, with over half struggling. Even households earning $90,000-$120,000 reported making financial sacrifices for health care, with 25% cutting costs.
“Middle-class and upper-middle-class Americans are making tough choices, like reducing utility bills or borrowing for health care,” said Ellyn Maese, West Health-Gallup Center research director, in an interview with CNN.
In a Gallup article, Maese noted, “In 2026, millions could face higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs as some ACA subsidies expire and Medicaid cuts loom, risking coverage.” These changes may leave millions uninsured amid high financial stress.
ACA premiums were expanded during COVID-19 through the American Rescue Plan Act by President Joe Biden. The Inflation Reduction Act extended them to 2025.
On Dec. 17, 2025, House Republicans passed a health package excluding further subsidy funding, which expired year-end. This led 22 million Americans with subsidies to face soaring premiums, prompting many to drop coverage.
Another survey of 5,660 Americans by the West Health-Gallup Center showed 1 in 10 delayed major life events due to health costs. Events like vacations, home purchases, and surgeries were postponed. Among $180,000-$240,000 income households, 34% reported postponements.
Per a CBS price tracker, household costs for items like food, utilities, gas, and medical care have risen over two years.
In a January KFF poll, respondents prioritized health care costs, with 67% urging Congress to extend ACA subsidies.
The survey indicated widespread belief that costs rose last year, with 41% of Republicans, 53% of independents, 56% of Democrats, and 38% of “Make America Great Again” supporters reporting significant living cost increases.
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