Paying more for less: The poverty premium in 2026

The ‘poverty premium’ refers to the extra amount that low-income households pay for essential goods and services as a result of barriers that they face due to being on a low income.

This study estimates the cost of the poverty premium facing low-income households in Britain in 2026, focusing on several key markets: energy, insurance, credit, and food. The research builds on our previous studies conducted in 2016, 2019 and 2022, while reflecting any changes that have occurred since then.