Retirement Anxiety Surges as Half of U.S. Retirees Fear Outliving Savings
Event summary
- 58% of pre-retirees and 51% of retirees worry about running out of money in their defined contribution (DC) plans, up from 30% a decade ago.
- Pre-retirees now expect their savings to last only 15 years after retirement, down from 19 years four years ago.
- 92% of pre-retirees and 86% of retirees view a monthly retirement 'paycheck' as essential for paying bills.
- 61% of retirees who took lump sums regret major purchases made in their first year of retirement.
The big picture
MetLife’s 2026 Paycheck or Pot of Gold Study highlights a critical juncture in U.S. retirement security, driven by rising healthcare costs, economic volatility, and longer lifespans. The data underscores a widening gap between retirement expectations and reality, with retirees depleting savings faster than anticipated. This trend is reshaping the retirement landscape, increasing demand for reliable income streams and challenging traditional savings strategies.
What we're watching
- Income Annuity Demand
- Whether the surge in retirement anxiety will accelerate demand for guaranteed income products like annuities.
- Lump Sum Regret
- The pace at which retirees who took lump sums will seek alternative income solutions to avoid financial hardship.
- Retirement Planning Shifts
- How financial advisors and employers will adapt to the growing need for retirement income guidance.
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