Vermont Tops U.S. Health Insurance Cost Burden

A WalletHub analysis finds Vermont residents spend the highest share of their income on health insurance in the U.S., with nearly 20% of income devoted to premiums and an average monthly silver plan costing $1,275. Vermont's median household income ranks 19th nationally, yet its premium burden is the highest. Mississippi also ranks high for unaffordability, with families spending about 10.5% of their income on premiums and the state heavily relying on Medicaid funding. By contrast, New Hampshire residents pay only about 4% of income on health insurance. The report cites inflation as a key factor behind 2024 premium hikes, with individual and family plan prices rising 6% and 7% respectively. These disparities highlight ongoing regional challenges in accessing affordable health coverage, even after reforms expanded insurance access.