How Much Does It Really Cost to Stay Healthy?
by Kashvi Mahesh
We often hear that “health is wealth,” but what does it actually cost to stay healthy? For many teens and families, the idea of leading a healthy lifestyle sounds simple: eat right, move your body, and get enough sleep. But in reality, the price tag attached to staying healthy can be surprisingly high. Whether it’s gym memberships, medical checkups, nutritious food, or mental health support — there are often hidden or underestimated costs that aren't talked about enough.
This article breaks down the key expenses involved in maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the U.S., helping you and your family make more informed and affordable choices.
1. Fitness: More Than Just a Gym Membership
Gym Memberships: A basic gym membership can range from $10/month at budget gyms like Planet Fitness to $60/month at more equipped centers like LA Fitness. Boutique gyms or fitness classes (like SoulCycle or Orangetheory) can cost $150–$200/month.
Sports Participation: School or community sports involve registration fees ($50–$300 per season), gear ($100–$500 depending on the sport), and travel.
Home Equipment: A basic set of dumbbells, yoga mats, or resistance bands might seem affordable, but a decent at-home setup can still cost $150–$600 upfront.
💡 Tip: Free fitness apps, local parks, and school PE programs are great low-cost alternatives.
2. Nutrition: Eating Healthy Isn’t Always Cheap
Groceries: A healthy diet rich in fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains can increase a family’s food bill by $1,500–$2,000 more per year than a heavily processed or fast-food diet.
Meal Prep Services: Services like HelloFresh or Blue Apron cost around $9–$13 per meal, which adds up quickly for families.
Supplements: Teens into sports or wellness trends may spend on protein powders ($30–$60/month), multivitamins ($10–$30/month), or energy drinks and smoothies ($5–$10 each).
💡 Tip: Shop local, in-season produce and consider buying in bulk for staples like oats, beans, or rice.
3. Preventive Healthcare: Worth It, But Often Overlooked
Annual Checkups: Even with insurance, co-pays for physicals or wellness visits can be $10–$50 per visit. Without insurance, costs range from $100–$250 per visit.
Dental & Vision Care: Basic dental checkups cost $75–$200, and a pair of prescription glasses can run from $100–$300.
Vaccinations & Screenings: Not all vaccines or diagnostic tests are fully covered. Some families pay $20–$100 per vaccine, especially for travel or optional shots.
💡 Tip: Look out for free health fairs, school-based clinics, and state programs that offer reduced-cost or no-cost checkups.
4. Mental Health: An Essential, Yet Costly Pillar
Therapy Sessions: For teens or adults, therapy typically costs $100–$200 per session without insurance. Even with coverage, co-pays are around $20–$50.
Apps & Programs: Apps like Calm or Headspace have annual fees ranging from $70–$100, though some schools provide free access.
School Counseling: These services are free but often stretched thin. Private counseling or academic therapy for stress and burnout adds extra cost.
💡 Tip: Some NGOs and universities offer sliding-scale therapy sessions based on income.
5. Sleep & Stress Management: The Hidden Spend
Sleep Hygiene Tools: Weighted blankets ($60–$120), blackout curtains ($30–$70), or even white noise machines ($20–$50) can support better sleep.
Stress-Relief Tools: Journals, yoga classes, herbal teas, or stress-relief gadgets can cost $10–$200 yearly.
💡 Tip: Many stress-management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and walking outdoors are free and highly effective.
Final Thoughts
While staying healthy is crucial, it’s not always financially accessible for every teen or family — and that’s okay. The key is to be aware of the potential costs and prioritize what matters most to your health goals. The above free or low-cost alternatives can help you stay on track without breaking the bank.
References:
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/passiveincome.asp
https://www.healthcare.gov/preventive-care-adults/
https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/about/index.html
