The Penny Pinchers: States with the Lowest Per Capita Healthcare Costs
On the other end of the spectrum, some states manage to keep healthcare costs much lower:
-
Utah consistently spends the least, with around $8,000 per resident. A young population and generally healthy lifestyle help keep costs down.
-
Idaho and New Mexico follow closely, both landing in the lower ranges. Smaller populations, fewer urban centers, and lower cost-of-living factors help explain the difference.
-
Arkansas and Georgia also land among the lower spenders, though in these cases, the story isn’t necessarily about efficiency—it’s often about limited access to care and fewer healthcare resources.
Low spending sounds good on paper, but it can be a double-edged sword. In states where costs are low because access is limited, people may skip necessary care, which can hurt long-term health outcomes.
The Gap Between States
The gap between high and low spenders is striking. Residents of New York or Massachusetts may see healthcare spending per person that’s nearly twice as high as in Utah or Idaho. This isn’t just a trivia fact—it’s a reminder of how unequal the healthcare landscape in America can be.
For some, high spending translates into access to top-tier hospitals and advanced treatments. For others, lower spending might mean fewer clinics, long drives to see specialists, or understaffed hospitals.
Let’s see next if higher spending means better healthcare.
