Map Shows Where Americans Spend the Most on Health Care in 2026
Summary
A new report shows that Americans are spending a growing share of their income on health care, with some states having much higher costs than others. Alaska leads with residents spending over 10% of their income on medical care, while states like Utah spend about half that share.Key Facts
- Americans’ average out-of-pocket health care spending rose from $811 to $1,514 over 20 years, faster than inflation.
- WalletHub ranked all 50 states by the share of median household income spent on essential medical services and medications.
- Alaska residents spend the highest share, about 10.1% of median income, due to very high prices for doctors and medications.
- Oregon is second, spending 9.3% of income on health care, primarily because of high service costs.
- Maine ranks third, with high medical prices and lower income, leading to a large income share spent on care.
- States spending the least on health care include Utah (5.11%), Virginia (5.62%), and California (5.64%).
- Rising health care costs make it harder for many people to afford care and affect household budgets.
- Inflation in housing and food also adds to financial stress, even in states where medical prices are lower.
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