Rising healthcare costs and debt drive nearly a quarter of American workers to stay in jobs they dislike for insurance benefits.
Nearly 24% of U.S. workers remain in jobs they dislike due to fear of losing health insurance, a phenomenon known as ‘job lock.’ This marks an 8% increase from previous years, driven by soaring healthcare costs and inflation pressures.
Employer-sponsored family health insurance premiums have surged 26% over the past five years, amplifying concerns. Workers earning $48,000 to $90,000 annually are most affected, with 27% reporting job lock, compared to higher-income groups.
Healthcare debt exacerbates the issue, with 44% of indebted workers staying in unwanted jobs for insurance, double the rate of those without medical debt.