Overview

• Schroders’ 2025 U.S. Retirement Survey reports a $1.28 million comfort target, with 48% of respondents expecting to finish with under $500,000 and 26% under $250,000.
• Financial planners urge starting higher contributions immediately by trimming expenses and investing the money rather than waiting.
• Working longer can materially improve outcomes, including part-time or lower-paying roles that extend income and reduce portfolio withdrawals.
• Those aiming to retire at the end of 2025 should build a detailed budget, review fixed income sources such as Social Security or pensions, and address any gap through cost cuts or delaying retirement.
• Experts advise planning for 25 to 35 years of retirement and preparing for sizable medical costs, with one estimate topping $300,000 for a 65-year-old couple over 20 years excluding long-term care.