Medicare costs are expected to rise in 2026, with the standard Part B premium projected to reach about $206.50 per month, up from $185 in 2025. This represents an increase of roughly $21.50 monthly, though the final figure will be confirmed by CMS in the fall of 2025. The accompanying cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026 is projected to be large enough to largely offset this premium increase for most beneficiaries, meaning many Social Security recipients may still see higher monthly checks despite the higher Part B premium. However, the COLA will not fully erase the premium rise for everyone, and some retirees could experience reduced purchasing power as other medical costs (hospitalization, outpatient services, and drugs) also trend higher. Key points to understand for 2026
- Part B premium: Projected to be about $206.50/month (increase of ~ $21.50 from 2025).
- COLA impact: Estimated to add roughly $54/month to the average retiree’s Social Security check in 2026, potentially offsetting most of the Part B premium rise for many enrollees.
- Out-of-pocket and drug costs: While some premiums may rise, other costs such as deductibles, copays, and drug plan premiums can also change; for example, standalone Part D premiums and Medicare Advantage plan costs are projected to shift, with variations by plan and coverage type.
- Additional notes: Projections come from the Medicare Trustees and major financial outlets; final CMS values for 2026 will be released when the fall 2025 updates are published.
What this means for you
- If you’re enrolled in standard Part B, expect a higher monthly premium in 2026, but plan for a larger Social Security check due to the COLA factor. Your net effect will depend on your specific COLA and any additional costs you incur (e.g., Part D premiums, prescription costs, or Medicare Advantage costs).
- If you’re considering Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, premiums for those plans are also projected to change in 2026, with some plans potentially lowering premiums while others may rise, and with variability in subsidies and drug costs depending on the plan and region (open enrollment details are typically released closer to the annual enrollment period).
Sources and timing
- The Medicare Trustees and major financial outlets have published projections indicating the 2026 Part B premium around $206.50/month, up from $185, with an anticipated offset from the COLA. Final CMS figures will be issued in fall 2025. For the latest, check CMS and Medicare resources when the fall updates are released.
- Additional context on Part D, Medicare Advantage premium trends, and out-of-pocket cap changes are available from Medicare and related financial news outlets, which provide year-by-year projections and plan-level notes as enrollment cycles approach.
If you’d like, share your current Medicare coverage (Part B only vs. Part C/D), your typical healthcare usage, and whether you’re primarily interested in a quick estimate or a detailed plan comparison. I can tailor the expectations to your situation and, if helpful, walk through a rough calculation of your anticipated 2026 costs and potential savings from COLA and plan changes.
