A 2026 US retirement survey found healthcare costs now take 16% of retirees’ monthly income, including premiums, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket medical needs.
Even with federal senior health coverage beginning at 65, retirees may still handle routine dental, vision, hearing aids, and long-term nursing care.
Surprise is common: 58% of surveyed retirees expected broader coverage, making medical costs one of retirement’s most underestimated budget items for many.
Affordability planning matters because 58% of respondents were unsure how long savings will last, while ~half had higher living expenses than budgeted.
An expert emphasizes balancing portfolio protection with growth once retirement begins, because savings often need to support 3 or even 4 decades.