Which country spends the most on healthcare?

The United States spends by far the most at $12,555 per person per year — more than twice any other country.

Does more spending mean better outcomes?

Not necessarily. The US spends the most but ranks below many countries on life expectancy and infant mortality. Efficiency and equity of spending matter more.

Global Average Healthcare Spending

Last updated: January 29, 2026

$1,280

USD/person

The global average healthcare spending is approximately $1,280 per person per year. The United States spends the most at $12,555/person, while India spends just $83 and Pakistan $42. Higher spending doesn't always mean better outcomes.

Historical Trend

Source: WHO

Global Average Healthcare Spending by Country

Country	Value (USD/person) ↓	Source
United States	12,555	CMS
Switzerland	9,666	BFS
Germany	7,383	Destatis
Canada	5,765	CIHI
Australia	5,627	AIHW
France	5,564	DREES
United Kingdom	5,138	ONS
Japan	4,691	MHLW
South Korea	3,514	NHIS
United Arab Emirates	1,840	MOHAP
Saudi Arabia	1,640	MOH
Brazil	1,175	ANS
Russia	1,120	Rosstat
China	935	NHC
India	83	NHA
Nigeria	71	WHO
Pakistan	42	MOH

Why This Average Exists

Healthcare spending data helps compare healthcare system efficiency and identify where investment is most needed.

Factors That Affect Global Average Healthcare Spending

GDP per capita
Healthcare system type
Disease burden
Pharmaceutical costs
Aging population
Government priorities

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology & Data Sources

The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.