How Much Should You Have Saved To Retire at 65?

Core Insights - The traditional retirement savings benchmark of $1 million is becoming outdated, with experts now recommending a target of $1.5 million to ensure a comfortable retirement [3][4] - The shift in retirement age to 67 and economic changes necessitate a reevaluation of retirement savings strategies, as the old 4% rule may no longer suffice [2][4] Retirement Savings Guidelines - Financial advisors previously suggested saving multiples of salary: three times by age 40, six times by 50, and over eight times by 65, translating to approximately $340,000 to $850,000 for those earning between $40,000 and $100,000 annually by ages 61-64 [2] - The new recommendation of $1.5 million allows for an annual retirement income of $60,000, providing a buffer for rising costs and unexpected expenses [3] Factors Influencing Retirement Costs - Location significantly impacts retirement budgets, as living costs vary across the U.S., necessitating personalized savings goals [6] - Marital status affects Social Security benefits, with married couples able to maximize benefits, but survivors face income loss upon a spouse's death [6] - Retirees must account for healthcare, housing, and lifestyle expenses, ensuring their savings can cover these without financial strain [6] Legislative Impact - The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed in July 2025 introduces temporary tax deductions for seniors, potentially exempting about 90% of retirees from paying income tax on Social Security [6]