Gabriel Rickles
As the years pass, healthcare costs rise sharply for retirees. A recent study by the Royal Bank of Canada reveals that couples in their mid-60s spend around $13,000 annually on healthcare. By the time they reach their mid-80s, that number skyrockets to $40,000. These rising expenses take a toll on retirees, mostly in these 15 states.
North Carolina
North Carolina takes the lead as the priciest state for healthcare. According to Forbes, residents with employer-provided “plus-one” coverage pay an average of $4,781 a year. Those with family plans face an even steeper bill of $7,180. It’s no surprise that many retirees are feeling the financial squeeze.
Pennsylvania
Ranked 46th for healthcare costs, this state isn’t the worst, but expenses can still bite. Premiums range from $479 to $653 per person monthly, while family plans hit $1,356 to $1,703. Unbiased reported in an article that even a trip to the ER could cost about $1,800. Planning for these costs is vital for retirees.
Arkansas
Arkansas faces skyrocketing healthcare costs, making it tough for many seniors to afford care amid rising hospital bills and fewer Medicaid enrollees. The state ranks poorly in health metrics, with limited access to primary care from an article by Steve Brawner in Talk Business and Politics.
Michigan
In Michigan, a piece in the Detroit Free Press opines that healthcare costs are on the rise, with insurers proposing hefty rate increases for 2025. Blue Cross wants an average hike of over 11% for small groups, while Priority Health seeks an average jump of 13.2% for small plans.
Nevada
With limited access to affordable care, many retirees face significant challenges. The state shows alarming rates of avoidable deaths, particularly among vulnerable groups. These issues highlight an important need for improvement in health services to support retirees and ensure their well-being.
Florida
While Florida offers sunshine and no state taxes, healthcare costs tell a different story. Residents face the highest family insurance premiums at $7,258 a year, with many skipping doctor visits due to price, as cited in Forbes. Mental health care isn’t spared, and 30.1% struggle to afford treatment.
South Carolina
Access to healthcare remains a challenge in South Carolina, with over 460,000 residents uninsured as of 2024. The state ranks poorly in coverage, leaving many seniors vulnerable. According to an article from KFF, high medical debt affects nearly 12% of adults, underscoring the financial strain on retirees.
New Mexico
As stated in an article by KFF, New Mexico faces significant healthcare challenges that impact retirees. With 8.4% of residents uninsured, healthcare costs are rising. In 2024, the average annual premium for employer-sponsored family coverage will hit $24,207. Many struggle to pay bills, as 9% of adults report medical debt.
Mississippi
Without renewed federal subsidies, health insurance costs for low-income residents could soar by 160% in 2026. As revealed by Mississippi Today, this sharp increase will hit around 280,000 individuals hard, highlighting how states are failing retirees and vulnerable populations facing already high healthcare costs.
Oklahoma
Rising healthcare expenses hit retirees hard in Oklahoma, where monthly health insurance averages $596 without discounts. However, according to Value Penguin’s findings, many residents can benefit from subsidies, reducing their costs to about $57. With over 97% of Oklahomans qualifying for these savings, retirees must explore their options.
Alabama
The state ranks low for overall health system performance, and a significant number of Alabamians face barriers to coverage and access to care. Without addressing these issues, seniors risk financial strain and inadequate health support, making it increasingly difficult for them to manage their health and well-being effectively.
West Virginia
Despite efforts to boost insurance coverage, West Virginia grapples with soaring premiums, averaging around $8,546 per year, and alarming health outcomes, including preventable deaths, according to West Virginia Watch. Addressing these challenges is essential for securing better health and financial stability for aging residents.
Texas
A WalletHub study ranks Texas 45th among the least favorable states for healthcare. With the country’s lowest percentage of insured children and adults, many struggle to access care. High insurance premiums contribute to significant financial and health challenges for seniors in the state.
Georgia
Rising healthcare costs hit hard, especially in one of the most expensive states for care. A recent study shows it ranks eighth nationwide for health expenses, with average premiums for single coverage at $1,646.67 and deductibles averaging $2,112.67, as stated by Sundi Rose in an article on Georgia Public Broadcasting.
Arizona
Healthcare costs are rising fast, and retirees are feeling the pressure. With the growing need for medical services and an aging population, out-of-pocket expenses are hitting harder than ever. As more people rely on public insurance, coverage gaps, and high costs are making it challenging for retirees to keep up.
