Healthcare Costs Force Nearly Half of U.S. Employees to Cut Retirement Savings, Survey Finds

A recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Heart Association highlights a troubling trend: U.S. employees are highly motivated to improve their health, but financial constraints are creating significant barriers. The survey, which polled 2,001 employees enrolled in employer-sponsored health plans, found that 95% are actively trying to improve their health and well-being. However, 50% report that healthcare costs have made it difficult to pay for day-to-day expenses, including food, childcare, and rent.

Nearly half (47%) of respondents have stopped or decreased their retirement contributions to afford healthcare costs and maintain a healthy lifestyle. For employees already stretched thin by limited wage growth and inflation, healthcare costs represent a larger percentage of take-home pay, leaving little room to absorb unexpected expenses. Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized that no one should have to choose between groceries and medical care. The association is committed to addressing healthcare affordability and views employers as critical partners in this effort.

The rising cost of healthcare is a pressing concern for businesses as well. According to a 2026 survey by the Business Group on Health, large employers anticipate a median 9% increase in healthcare costs this year before cost-reduction measures. In response, business leaders are focusing on comprehensive support and systems-level change for workforce well-being.

A recent Presidential Advisory from the American Heart Association warns that healthcare affordability in the U.S. has reached crisis levels. The advisory outlines five core principles, including access to high-quality care without financial hardship, minimal cost-sharing for preventive services, and shared accountability across the healthcare ecosystem.

Beyond costs, the survey identified other barriers to employee health: managing work-life balance (36%), finding time (30%), and caregiving responsibilities (23%). A vast majority (92%) of employees agree that health and well-being should be supported in daily work, not just through policies, and 93% want company leaders to model work-life balance.