Health Insurance Costs Surge in 2027 | Seattle News

Washingtonians buying their own health insurance face a steep 22.2% average price hike in 2027, as 12 insurers seek approval for rate increases tied to soaring healthcare costs and a shrinking, sicker enrollee pool. Rising hospital bills, drug prices, and more expensive treatments drive up premiums, while healthier individuals leave the market — partly due to the loss of enhanced tax credits that saved them $1,330 annually. With enrollment down 13% last year, the burden falls heavier on those who stay, with some insurers seeing hikes as high as 30.5%. This affects freelancers, early retirees, and small businesses relying on the state’s exchange — as policymakers scramb...