Here’s how much Americans at every income level have saved in their 401(k)s. Compare your total to see how you stack up

Core Insights - American households possess significant retirement assets, but these assets are unevenly distributed across income levels [1] - The average 401(k) balance at the end of 2025 is $167,970, which is substantially lower than the $1.28 million that most workers believe is necessary for a comfortable retirement [2] - The average 401(k) balance is skewed by a small number of high-value accounts, with approximately 654,000 individuals holding $1 million or more in their 401(k) plans [3] Distribution of Retirement Assets - The median 401(k) balance at the end of 2025 is $44,115, reflecting a 16% increase from the previous year, but still inadequate for most individuals' retirement needs [4] - Income levels significantly influence retirement savings, with higher incomes generally leading to higher savings potential [5] Variability Among Income Groups - Retirement asset accumulation can vary widely within income groups, as individual saving discipline and investment choices can lead to different outcomes [6] - Lifestyle costs and debt can negatively impact retirement savings, causing individuals with high incomes to fall behind their peers in retirement asset accumulation [6]