In 2026, the average deductible for Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace plans rose sharply to $3,786, up from $2,759 in 2025. This marks an increase of over $1,000, or 37%.
The spike in deductibles is attributed to a growing number of enrollees opting for higher-deductible plans, a shift that has been observed as enhanced premium tax credits expired.
This development raises concerns about the affordability of healthcare for many individuals, as higher deductibles can lead to increased out-of-pocket costs.