Job based health insurance costs could rise

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Health insurance through employers is expected to become more expensive next year, according to a new survey.

Employer benefits consulting firm Mercer found that workers can expect to pay an additional 6% to 7% in premiums on average in 2026.

Some employers say they will try to limit those increases, but that often results in higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs instead. Many companies are also offering workers more plan options, some of which feature lower co-pays depending on the provider.

The projected increase would be the steepest cost hike in 15 years.