finance

Americans now target $1.5 million to retire comfortably, Northwestern Mutual finds

The survey shows Americans' retirement expectations far exceed typical savings amid inflation and Social Security concerns, while other polls and federal data underscore widespread shortfalls.

Apr 3rd 2026 · United States

Insights

Northwestern Mutual surveyed 4,375 adults and reports the ideal retirement figure rose to $1.5 million, up $200,000 from last year.

Sources

Americans want to save another $200K in order to be comfortable in their golden years www.independent.co.uk
‘Magic number’ needed for retirement jumps by 15% in the US www.independent.co.uk
What it takes to retire comfortably in America: Nearly $1.5 million, Northwestern Mutual says fortune.com