Individuals who rely on Social Security can expect an increase in their benefits this January, thanks to the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). While the exact details are yet to be confirmed, preliminary estimates indicate a potential for an above-average boost.
The increase in benefits will vary by individual, as COLAs are calculated as percentages. For residents in certain states, the increase could be significantly higher. Recent projections from The Senior Citizens League (TSCL), a nonpartisan organization dedicated to senior citizens’ welfare, suggest that the COLA for 2027 may be around 3.8%. This would lead to an additional approximately $79 added to the average monthly Social Security benefit of $2,081 recorded in April 2026.
Some states, particularly those with higher average incomes, are predicted to see even larger increases. Below are the ten states that are expected to experience the most significant average upticks in Social Security benefits:
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Connecticut: The average benefit as of December 2024 is $2,196.15. With the expected 2026 adjustment, this will rise to $2,257.64, and, assuming a 3.8% COLA in 2027, to approximately $2,343.43.
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New Jersey: Initially averaging $2,190.05, benefits are estimated to reach $2,251.37 in 2026, and further increase to $2,336.92 in 2027.
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New Hampshire: Benefits anticipated to rise from $2,183.82 to $2,244.97 in 2026, then to an estimated $2,330.28 by 2027.
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Delaware: Current average benefits of $2,170.63 are projected to become $2,231.41 in 2026, with a subsequent increase to $2,316.20 in January 2027.
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Maryland: With a starting average of $2,139.54, expected benefits are $2,199.45 in 2026 and potentially $2,283.03 in 2027.
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Washington: Beneficiaries can expect an average benefit of $2,099.38 in December 2024, increasing to $2,158.16 in 2026 and approximately $2,240.17 in 2027.
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Minnesota: The average benefit is projected to increase from $2,095.13 to $2,153.79 in 2026 and reach about $2,235.64 by 2027.
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Massachusetts: Current benefits at $2,084.32 are anticipated to rise to $2,142.68 in 2026 and to $2,224.10 in 2027.
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Michigan: Beneficiaries’ average amounts are expected to soar from $2,066.03 to $2,123.88 in 2026 and further to $2,204.59 in 2027.
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Utah: Starting at $2,065.18, the average benefits are predicted to increase to $2,123.01 in 2026 and to $2,203.68 in 2027.
These figures reflect averages, meaning that individual experiences may vary. Many recipients may find their benefits fall below or exceed these estimates.
For those eager to gauge potential future benefits, a rough calculation can be made by applying the estimated 3.8% increase to current benefits. However, it’s essential to remember that the official COLA might differ slightly from these estimates, with final confirmation expected from the Social Security Administration in mid-October. After this announcement, individuals will be better equipped to plan their budgets for 2027.
