Lockton’s eighth annual survey of over 1,700 U.S. employers helps employers compare their benefit strategies with those of other employers -providing benchmark data, highlighting trends, and illuminating new ideas.

As healthcare costs rise and economic pressures mount, cost is a defining reality for employers. The 2026 Lockton National Benefits Survey shows a rapid acceleration of a shift that first took hold last year – cost management decidedly the top priority vs the next ranked priority - attracting and retaining talent. The data shows how employers are searching for an answer to their need for cost containment solutions.