It’s looking like 2026 will be the year of the health kick, with new Compare the Market research finding that around a third of Aussies surveyed (37.5%) will aim to live a healthier lifestyle next year.*
Compare the Market’s latest findings found that Millennials are the most likely to set resolutions around living healthier in 2026, at a rate of 43% compared to 42% of Gen X, 37% of Gen Z and just 30% of Baby Boomers.
And New South Wales will become the health boom capital of Australia, with 44% of those surveyed from the state vowing to prioritise their health in the New Year – higher than Victoria (39%), Queensland (34%), Western Australia (29%) and South Australia (27%).
While health remains the top priority, enthusiasm has dipped – with the number of Aussies making pledges down from 45.9% in 2025.
Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch said this wasn’t a case of fear of missing out – but a case of fear of messing up.
“We’ve actually seen a jump in Aussies telling us they won’t make any New Year’s resolutions next year, up from 25.8% in 2025 to 31.9% in 2026,” Mr Koch said.
“The sad reality is that while we set these resolutions with the best intentions, some people don’t stick to their plan if they have a cheat day or suffer a setback.
“I’m not a health guru but let me tell you – setbacks are normal. I’ve certainly had my fair share. Consistency is king, and having the right support and tools makes all the difference when you need to bounce back.”
Mr Koch said that the 13.7 million Australians who have extras health insurance could already be paying for services to help with health goals without even realising it.
“Health insurance is more than just dental check-ups or optometrist appointments. You’d be surprised at the types of services available that can help you live a healthier lifestyle. And you may already be paying for the service,” Mr Koch said.
“While benefits vary between policies and health funds, you may be able to claim on things like gym memberships, lifestyle programs, dietitian consultations, remedial massage and more.
“If you have an extras policy, see if you’re already paying for these services. Or if they’re important to you and you think they’ll help you on your health journey, compare your options and consider switching to or taking out a policy that offers them.”
Compare the Market’s research also found that 7.9% of Australians surveyed said they would drink, smoke or vape less in 2026 – also down slightly from 2025’s 8.6%.
“These can be expensive habits, so in addition to improving your overall health, kicking them could help boost your savings in 2026 too,” Mr Koch said. “If you were spending $80 a week on these habits every week, which isn’t hard if you’re going out with mates or winding down the week with work colleagues, it works out to $4,160 over a year. That’s enough for an overseas holiday, a new laptop or phone or even an update of your wardrobe.”
Other top resolutions surveyed Australians will make in 2026 include:
- Saving more money: 35.3%
- Going on a holiday: 24.8%
- Buying a new car: 9.7%
- Being more environmentally conscious: 9.6%
*Compare the Market survey of 1,004 Australian adults, conducted October 2025.
For more information, please contact:
Phillip Portman | 0437 384 471 | [email protected]
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