Why Social Security’s annual COLA matters more as retirees get older

The federal government announced a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment for Social Security benefits starting in January 2027, which translates to roughly $900 more per year for the average recipient, according to TribLIVE.com. In Pennsylvania, one in five residents — over 3 million people — receive Social Security payments averaging $2,142 per month or $25,707 annually, injecting $71.8 billion into the state economy each year. Half of recipients rely on Social Security as their main source of income. An AARP survey cited by TribLIVE.com found that 76% of adults age 50 and older say the 2027 COLA does not appear to keep up with rising prices, a sentiment that has held steady in recent years. Older Pennsylvanians report pressure from higher grocery bills, utility costs, and health care and prescription drug expenses, forcing difficult budget choices on fixed incomes. Bill Johnston-Walsh, writing for TribLIVE.com, warned that proposals in Washington to reduce or cut the COLA are out of touch with the reality facing older Americans and urged Congress to protect and strengthen Social Security without cutting earned benefits.