23 million Americans stuck in jobs they want to leave over health insurance fears

Among those with medical debt, 44% reported job lock, more than double the 21% rate among those without medical debt.

Nearly half of respondents who cited healthcare costs as a "major financial burden" reported job lock. The rate rose to 53% among those experiencing "a lot of stress" over medical expenses.

Chronic health problems also made workers more likely to stay at their jobs.

About 29% of those with at least one chronic condition reported job lock, compared with 17% of those without one. That rate grew to 41% among people with three or more diagnoses.

Women were also more likely than men to remain in unwanted jobs for health benefits, at 30% compared with 20%, according to the report.

The findings were based on a national survey of 5,660 adults conducted from Oct. 27 to Dec. 22, 2025. The analysis focused on 2,322 employed adults with employer-sponsored insurance.

"The effects extend beyond morale – reducing labor market efficiency, upward mobility and quality of life," the report said. "With coverage tied to employment, a growing share of American workers report making career decisions based on insurance rather than opportunity."