Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 study says Americans believe they need $1.46 million to retire comfortably, up $200,000 from a year earlier. It found 46% doubt they’ll be financially ready; 48% say it’s somewhat or very likely they’ll outlive their savings.
One guideline cited is saving 25 times expected annual retirement spending: spending $58,000 a year would imply about $1.46 million in savings. Another estimates $300,000 in savings for each $1,000 of monthly income. The article says such rules are only starting points; health care, long-term care, taxes and legacy goals can affect the amount needed.
Survey respondents said they plan to retire at 65 on average, while 27% think they could live to 100. About 41% said they already work or plan to work during retirement, and one-third counted Social Security’s future availability among their biggest retirement worries.
