Finance

Retirement Calculator

Plan your retirement savings and estimate your future income

Quick Answer:A 30-year-old with $50,000 saved, contributing $500/month at 7% average return, can expect approximately $1.1 million by age 65 in 2026 dollars. Using the 4% withdrawal rule, this provides about $3,700/month in retirement income.

Retirement Plan

Current Age 30

Retirement Age 65

Current Savings ($) $50,000

Monthly Contribution ($) $500

Expected Annual Return (%) 7%

Desired Monthly Income ($) $5,000

Projected Savings

Calculating... at retirement

Monthly Retirement Income

Based on 4% withdrawal rule

Years Savings Last

At desired withdrawal rate

Savings Gap

To meet desired income goal

Total Contributions

Your money invested over time

Visual Comparison

Total Contributions --

Investment Growth --

Expert Insight 2026 Pro Tip

In 2026, financial planners recommend the 4% rule as a starting point — withdraw 4% of your portfolio in year one, then adjust for inflation annually. For early retirees (before 60), consider a more conservative 3.0-3.5% withdrawal rate. The average American needs approximately $1.2-1.5 million saved to retire comfortably at 65. Maximize your employer 401(k) match first — it's an immediate 50-100% return on your money.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retirement Planning

How much do I need to retire?

The amount you need to retire depends on your desired lifestyle, location, and expected expenses. A widely used benchmark is the 4% rule, which suggests you need 25 times your annual expenses saved. For example, if you need $60,000 per year in retirement, you would need approximately $1.5 million saved. In 2026, financial planners generally recommend having $1.2 to $1.5 million saved for a comfortable retirement at age 65. However, this varies significantly based on factors like Social Security benefits, pension income, healthcare costs, and whether you plan to relocate. Consider that healthcare expenses tend to increase with age, and inflation will reduce your purchasing power over time. Start by estimating your annual retirement expenses, then multiply by 25 to get a baseline target. Factor in any guaranteed income sources like Social Security to reduce the amount you need from personal savings.

What is the 4% rule for retirement?

The 4% rule is a widely referenced retirement withdrawal guideline developed by financial planner William Bengen in 1994. It states that you can withdraw 4% of your total retirement portfolio in your first year of retirement, then adjust that dollar amount for inflation each subsequent year, and your savings should last at least 30 years. For example, if you retire with $1 million, you would withdraw $40,000 in your first year. The rule is based on historical stock and bond market returns and assumes a balanced portfolio of stocks and bonds. While it provides a useful starting point, many modern financial advisors suggest adjusting the rate based on current market conditions and your specific retirement age. Early retirees (before age 60) may want to use a more conservative 3.0% to 3.5% withdrawal rate to ensure their savings last longer. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor for personalized retirement planning guidance.

How should I invest for retirement in 2026?

Investing for retirement in 2026 requires a diversified strategy tailored to your age and risk tolerance. Start by maximizing your employer's 401(k) match, which is essentially free money with an immediate 50-100% return on your contribution. For younger investors (under 40), a portfolio weighted toward 80-90% stocks and 10-20% bonds is generally recommended, as you have time to recover from market downturns. As you approach retirement, gradually shift toward a more conservative allocation with a higher bond percentage. Consider low-cost index funds that track the broad market, such as total stock market or S&P 500 index funds, which historically have returned about 7-10% annually before inflation. Additionally, maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like traditional and Roth IRAs. In 2026, contribution limits have increased, so take full advantage of these tax benefits. Diversify across domestic and international stocks, bonds, and consider adding real estate investment trusts for additional portfolio diversification and income generation.