Average Out-Of-Pocket Health Care Costs In Retirement Estimated At $185,500 For People Retiring In 2026, Up 7.5% From 2025

Out-of-pocket health care costs for a 65-year-old retiring in 2026 are estimated to average $185,000 throughout retirement, according to a survey by Fidelity Investments. The cost is up 7.5% from the $172,500 average estimated for new retirees in 2025.

The estimate assumes enrollment in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and Medicare Part D, which includes premiums, copayments, and other out-of-pocket costs for medical care and prescription drugs throughout retirement. The following costs are included:

45% for Medicare Parts B and D monthly premiums

48% for other medical expenses subject to . . .