Average Retirement Age in America
When do Americans actually retire? Explore data on planned vs. actual retirement ages, the gap between expectations and reality, and factors that influence retirement timing decisions.
64
Average Actual Retirement Age
66
Average Planned Age
55%
Retire Earlier Than Planned
67
Full Retirement Age (FRA)
Retirement Age by Gender
| Category | Men | Women | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Actual Retirement Age | 65 | 63 | 64 |
| Average Planned Retirement Age | 66 | 65 | 66 |
| Median Actual Retirement Age | 65 | 62 | 63 |
| Full Retirement Age (Social Security) | 67 | 67 | 67 |
Source: Employee Benefit Research Institute, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Why People Retire Earlier Than Planned
Age Distribution at Retirement
Advisor Insight
"The 2-year gap between planned and actual retirement age underscores the importance of building flexibility into your retirement plan. Health issues and job changes can force early retirement, making it crucial to prepare for earlier-than-expected retirement scenarios."
, Brett Henderson, Fiduciary Financial Advisor
Related Research & Tools
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