This post may contain affiliate links which may compensate us based on your interaction. Please read the disclosures for more information.
Americans are anxious about the “magic number” they say will be necessary to enjoy their golden years.

The “magic number” that Americans say they need to live comfortably in retirement is coming down, but it still remains beyond the reach of many people today. Recently, Northwestern Mutual surveyed more than 4,600 adults for its 2025 Planning & Progress Study and asked them how much money they will need to save to retire comfortably. Their magic number? A cool $1.26 million, on average.