Most People in Their 50s Have This Much in a 401(k). How Do You Stack Up Against Your Peers?

Group 1 - The average 401(k) balance for individuals in their 50s is $635,320, but the median balance is significantly lower at $253,454, indicating that many individuals have much less saved for retirement than the average suggests [1][3] - In 2026, individuals aged 50 and above can contribute a total of $32,500 to their 401(k) plans, including a catch-up contribution of $8,000, with those aged 60 to 63 able to contribute up to $11,250 in catch-up contributions [2] - The average U.S. household spends over $78,000 annually, meaning a 401(k) balance of $253,454 could be depleted in just a few years without additional income sources [4] Group 2 - Higher earners who have reached contribution limits can utilize a strategy called the mega backdoor Roth, allowing for additional after-tax contributions that can be rolled into a Roth account for tax-free growth, potentially enabling them to save significantly more [5] - Some retirement investors are diversifying their portfolios by investing in fractional real estate through platforms like Arrived, which allows for passive income generation from rental properties with minimal initial investment [6]