How much of families' paychecks go toward healthcare costs? It depends on the state.

Core Insights - Families earning the median household income are spending 10% or more of their paychecks on employer-sponsored health coverage in 19 states, particularly in the southern US, with potential increases if incomes do not keep pace with rising healthcare costs [1][2] Group 1: Premiums and Deductibles - The Commonwealth Fund's analysis indicates that combined premiums and deductibles for family plans average 10.1% of the median family's household income nationwide, with family coverage premiums averaging $24,540 and families contributing $7,216 [5] - In states like Louisiana, combined premium and deductible costs account for 15.6% of incomes, while Florida, Mississippi, and North Carolina see similar figures at 13.7% [6] - Conversely, states like New Hampshire and Washington, D.C. report lower percentages, with costs at 6.9% and 5.7% of median household income, respectively [7] Group 2: Future Projections and Concerns - A previous survey from KFF noted that annual premiums for employer-sponsored family plans reached nearly $27,000, with workers paying $6,850, and costs are expected to rise further by 2026 due to increased healthcare utilization and the introduction of high-cost therapies [8] - The affordability of health coverage remains a significant concern, as families are spending more for plans that offer less protection [9]