• Wellness spending varies significantly based on individual needs, location, and health conditions, encompassing groceries, fitness, therapy, and cosmetic care.
• Americans spend an average of $6,000 per year on wellness, making the US the largest wellness economy, while in the UK, the per capita average is $3,342.
• The high cost of healthcare, especially in the US, prompts individuals to invest heavily in insurance and preventative measures to mitigate potential financial strain from unexpected health issues.

The article investigates the financial commitments required to maintain a healthy lifestyle, featuring personal accounts from five individuals in the US and UK. These individuals detail their monthly spending across various categories, including groceries, medical care, fitness activities, and cosmetic treatments. The analysis reveals that wellness is a multifaceted concept with costs that can quickly accumulate, reflecting a significant financial burden for those prioritizing their health and wellbeing.

• What: Analysis of individual spending on health and wellness, covering groceries, healthcare, fitness, and cosmetic care.
• Who: Five individuals: Julia (26, Pennsylvania), Ellen (33, London), Joshua (35) and Nicolle (35, Nevada), and Anna (48, New York).
• When: Data reflects monthly spending habits as of May 2025.
• Where: Pennsylvania, London, Nevada, and New York.

The article highlights the diverse approaches people take to maintain their wellbeing and the considerable financial implications involved. The US wellness economy is significantly larger than the UK's, reflecting differences in healthcare systems and cultural priorities. The personal accounts reveal that spending on wellness can range from essential healthcare needs to discretionary cosmetic procedures. The stress and potential financial devastation caused by accidents of diagnosis within the US healthcare system drives couples like Joshua and Nicolle to invest heavily in health insurance. The expenses associated with maintaining good health can be a substantial financial commitment. These personal expenditures show how individuals are increasingly investing in proactive health management.

It is incredibly expensive and time-consuming to maintain good health and wellbeing if you have chronic health conditions.

Maintaining wellness involves considerable financial investments that vary based on individual needs, location, and health conditions. The personal accounts reveal the diverse spending habits of individuals striving to prioritize their health and wellbeing, with costs ranging from essential healthcare and healthy food to fitness and cosmetic treatments. The economic impact of wellness is substantial, particularly in the US, where healthcare costs and priorities contribute to a large wellness economy.