Retirement Savings by Age: Are You on Track?
Most Americans are behind on retirement savings. Fidelity's rule of thumb: 1x salary by 30, 2x by 35, 3x by 40, 6x by 50, 8x by 60, 10x by 67. Here's what that looks like in dollars and how to catch up.
Retirement Savings Benchmarks by Age
Based on a $75,000 annual salary:
| Age | Target (x Salary) | $75K Salary Target |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1x | $75,000 |
| 35 | 2x | $150,000 |
| 40 | 3x | $225,000 |
| 50 | 6x | $450,000 |
| 60 | 8x | $600,000 |
| 67 | 10x | $750,000 |
Behind? Here's How to Catch Up
- Max your 401(k) — 2026 limit is $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+)
- Match = free money — Never leave employer match on the table
- Roth IRA — $7,000/year ($8,000 if 50+), tax-free growth
- Cut 10% — Redirect $750/mo from spending to savings at $75K salary
The 4% Rule
Withdraw 4% of your portfolio in year one of retirement, adjust for inflation each year. On $750K (10x a $75K salary), that's $30,000/year — plus Social Security bridges the gap for most retirees.
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