California Employer Health Benefits Survey
National Opinion Research Center
December 2009
Employer-sponsored coverage is the leading source of health insurance coverage in California and in the nation. Changes in offering rates among employers, increases in premiums for the various health plans, and employee cost sharing all have major implications for the availability and affordability of health insurance coverage in California.
This annual survey shows how premiums and benefit design have changed over time. Key findings from the 2009 survey include:
- Between 2002 and 2009, premiums more than doubled, increasing 117.5%, while California's overall inflation rate increased 23.1%.
- Single coverage premiums in California cost $5,133 annually, significantly more than the national average of $4,824. Premiums for family coverage were $13,525.
- Forty-four percent of large employers and 20% of small ones are very likely within the next year to increase the amount employees pay for health insurance premiums.
- Six percent of California employers say they are very likely to drop coverage completely, compared to just 1% last year.
The complete report is available, along with past editions, under Document Downloads below.