Nearly half of American households have no retirement savings (2024)

FAQs

Nearly half of American households have no retirement savings? ›

According to the Survey of Consumer Finances, in 2022 almost half of American household retirement savings accounts were empty. The accounts included individual retirement accounts; Keogh accounts; certain employer-sponsored accounts, such as 401(k), 403(b), thrift savings accounts; and pensions.

Another big part of the problem when it comes to saving for retirement is that savings plans are not universally available in the U.S. Almost half of private sector employees ages 18 to 64, or 57 million Americans, do not have the option to save for retirement at work.

Many Americans are stumbling toward golden years that will be heavily tarnished. A new GOBankingRates survey of more than 1,000 adults found that 28% of people have nothing saved for the future, 39% aren't contributing to a retirement fund and another 30% don't think they'll ever be able to retire.

Because many Americans don't have the opportunity to save for retirement. The vast majority of retirement savings come through a plan provided by an employer—typically a 401(k)—but an estimated 56 million private sector workers don't have a plan at work.

As families continue working to make ends meet, a report from USA Facts reflects that almost half of American households have no retirement savings. According to the Survey of Consumer Finances, in 2022 almost half of American household retirement savings accounts were empty.

“Today, almost half of those who are in the private sector workforce, and that's 57 million workers, don't have the option to save for retirement through their work,” she said. People who have access to retirement plans are more likely to save, she said. Another reason for retirement woes is inflation.

Without savings, it will be difficult to maintain the same lifestyle an individual had in working years. Some retirees make adjustments by: Moving into a smaller home or apartment. Reducing television or streaming services.

How much does the average 70-year-old have in savings? We were curious, too, so we asked. Our 2023 Planning & Progress study found that the average amount of retirement savings for 70-year-olds in the U.S. is $113,900.

How many Americans have at least $1,000 saved? ›

A stunning new Bankrate survey of 1,030 individuals finds that more than half of American adults (56%) lack sufficient savings to shoulder an unexpected $1,000 expense.

The above chart shows that U.S. residents 35 and under have an average of $30,170 in retirement savings; those 35 to 44 have an average $131,950; those 45 to 54 have an average $254,720; those 55 to 64 have an average $408,420; those 65 to 74 have an average $426,070; and those over 70 have an average $357,920.

Recent data from Northwestern Mutual shows that the average 30-something has $67,400 saved for retirement. So if you're sitting on a $100,000 savings balance at age 30, it means you're ahead of the game. But is having $100,000 by age 30 enough for you to stop pumping money into your IRA or 401(k)?

If you retire with no money, you'll have to consider ways to create income to pay your living expenses. That might include applying for Social Security retirement benefits, getting a reverse mortgage if you own a home, or starting a side hustle or part-time job to generate a steady paycheck.

The short answer is yes, $500,000 is enough for many retirees. The question is how that will work out for you. With an income source like Social Security, modes spending, and a bit of good luck, this is feasible. And when two people in your household get Social Security or pension income, it's even easier.

CNBC's International Your Money Financial Security Survey polled about 500 people each in nine countries. Of the 498 people surveyed in the U.S., more than half (53%) said they're behind schedule in retirement planning and savings.

What are two reasons Americans don't save more for retirement? Aside from inflation, respondents cited stagnant or reduced income, new expenses and the desire to keep more cash on hand as key reasons they're not saving more.

A new 2024 Annual Retirement Study from Allianz Life found that an eye-popping two in three Americans — 63% — said they worry more about running out of money than death. And this fear is on the rise: the figure is up from 57% in 2022, Allianz noted.

Starting at age 55, spending tends to increase slightly, as some younger retirees travel or take on new pursuits. In the age range when most are retired at 65+, there is a significant drop in overall spending. Source: Consumer Expenditure Survey data 2022, average US retiree total expenses by age.