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Part-Time Work Touted as Smarter Alternative to Delaying Retirement

Many near-retirees may bridge savings gaps by shifting to flexible paid work instead of extending full-time jobs.

Overview

  • Yahoo Finance argues that working part-time can be a more sustainable strategy than postponing retirement.
  • Federal Reserve 2022 data show the median retirement savings for Americans ages 65 to 74 is about $200,000.
  • Vanguard reports a 2024 median 401(k) balance of $95,425 for people 65 and older.
  • The average Social Security benefit is slightly above $2,000 per month, which often leaves a shortfall for living expenses.
  • Full-time extensions can boost savings but may be exhausting or impractical, whereas gig or part-time roles could be easier to maintain.