Commonwealth Fund survey finds uninsured rate among working-age Americans rose to 11% in 2026

The uninsured rate among working-age Americans rose to 11.2% in 2026, up from 8.9% in 2024, according to the latest biennial Commonwealth Fund survey on health insurance. Working-age adults enrolled in Medicaid declined from 15.5% in 2022 to 13% this year, while the uninsured rate among adults19 to 34 increased from 11% to 16%. Additionally, 46% of working-age adults were found to be inadequately insured during the survey period, conducted from May through July. The survey found that 11% were uninsured, 12% had a coverage gap during the year, and 23% were underinsured, meaning they had coverage but their plan did not provide affordable access to care. The rate of individuals delaying or avoiding healthcare because of costs reached 50% in 2026, up from 46% in 2022. Also, 23% of insured adults reported out-of-pocket costs or deductibles that were high relative to their income.