ACA Premiums Expected to Soar 26–200% Nationwide After Federal Subsidy Expiration

Health insurance premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans are set to increase sharply in 2026 across several states, largely due to the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits that were introduced during the pandemic. In Pennsylvania's Erie County, premiums have surged up to 200% for some individuals following the end of these subsidies, with incomes above certain thresholds now ineligible for any tax credits. Florida, the state with the highest number of ACA enrollees, is facing an average premium increase of 34.1%, prompting concerns that many may drop coverage due to unaffordability. Colorado Senator John Hickenlooper is collecting evidence of premium hikes, which have doubled or tripled in some areas, to advocate for the reinstatement of subsidies. Nationwide, the average premium for mid-level ACA plans rose by 26%, with increases attributed to higher claims and the popularity of expensive drugs. The looming deadline for subsidy expiration is also a contentious issue in the current federal government shutdown, as Democratic lawmakers push for extension to prevent these cost increases from affecting millions of Americans.