There’s a widening imbalance between cost pressures on US employers and improvements in employee well-being, raising new strategic questions for advisors guiding corporate clients on benefits investments.
Findings from MetLife’s 2026 US Employee Benefit Trends Study show that less than half of American workers feel holistically healthy as they grapple with rising expenses and employers tighten financial discipline.
The report highlights that controlling benefits costs, particularly health care spending, has become the top priority for employers, surpassing goals such as improving productivity, retention and talent attraction. That shift reflects the growing economic strain facing both organizations and their workforces.
According to the study, 83% of workers identify rising living and medical costs as one of their primary stressors, while 77% cite economic uncertainty.
Health issues led employees to miss an average of 6.1 workdays, and half of workers said out-of-pocket medical costs often discourage them from seeking care. At the same time, benefits investments have increased, with 60% of employers raising overall spending and 62% expanding non-medical benefits, yet workforce well-being, engagement and productivity have largely stalled.
“Current economic conditions mean employers are under immense pressure to manage costs while remaining invested in employee well-being at a time when their workforce is also stressed,” said Todd Katz, Head of US Group Benefits at MetLife. “Our research shows how effective benefits strategies can help organizations strike a balance between financial discipline and improving outcomes for their employees.”
The research highlights growing employer interest in non-medical benefits, including financial wellness tools, dental coverage, disability insurance and leave support, which many view as a cost-effective way to support employees while managing overall health care spending.
“Through more strategic investments in employee health and benefits — beyond simply expanding the menu of options — organizations can help strengthen the resilience of their workforce in the face of persistent cost pressures,” adds Katz. “This ultimately empowers businesses to sustain growth, adapt to change and maintain a competitive edge in any environment.”
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