Whether you’re just getting serious about retirement planning or checking your progress, you need to have a clear estimate of how much you’ll have by the time you retire… and whether it’s enough to meet your goals. This retirement investment calculator helps you do exactly that. Just plug in a few numbers to see if your current savings and monthly contributions are on track to support the kind of retirement you want.
How to use this calculator
This calculator helps you estimate whether you’re on track to retire based solely on your investment savings. Follow these simple steps to get a clear picture of where you stand:
- Enter your current age
This tells the calculator how many years you have left until retirement. It’s essential for projecting how long your money has to grow. - Enter your planned retirement age
The calculator uses this to determine how many years you’ll keep contributing and earning returns. The more time, the more growth potential. - Set your expected years in retirement
Choose how long you expect to need retirement income. Most people choose 25 to 30 years, but you can adjust based on your health, family history, or lifestyle. - Enter your current investment balance
This is the amount you’ve already saved in retirement accounts like a 401(k), Roth IRA, or brokerage account. It becomes the foundation for future growth. - Enter your monthly contribution
This is how much you plan to invest going forward each month. Regular contributions are the most effective way to build wealth steadily. - Expected annual return (%)
The default is 7%, which reflects the long-term historical average of the S&P 500. Adjust it if your portfolio is more conservative or aggressive. - Required annual spending in retirement
This is how much money you estimate you’ll need each year during retirement. You can enter a custom number or use a common benchmark like $75,000/year.
Once you hit “Calculate,” the tool will show how much you’re projected to have at retirement, how much you’ll need, and whether you’re on track or not.
Retirement Investment Calculator
Estimate if you're on track to meet your retirement goals based on your current investments and contributions.
Use this calculator to take control of your retirement path. It’s not just about the numbers, it’s about making a plan and sticking to it
Why investing in the market matters
Not everyone retires using market investments alone, but millions of Americans rely on them to fund at least part of their retirement. As of 2023:
- About 60 million Americans actively contribute to a 401(k) plan.
- Roughly 30 million Americans have a Roth IRA.
- The average 401(k) balance for people aged 45–54 is approximately $179,200 according to Vanguard.
The market plays a critical role in retirement because compound interest turns small contributions into large sums over time. A single $500 monthly investment growing at 7% annually becomes over $600,000 in 30 years.
The key is to start early, but even if you haven’t, it’s not too late. The market rewards consistency and time. You don’t need to be wealthy to invest, you just need to begin.
Even starting at age 40 or 50, you can still benefit from growth, especially if you increase your monthly contributions, reduce debt, and stay invested long-term.
Common retirement savings questions
Do I need to use a 401(k) or Roth IRA to retire?
No, but they help. These accounts offer tax advantages that accelerate your growth. A Roth IRA grows tax-free. A 401(k) often includes employer matches, free money.
What if I don’t hit my goal?
This calculator is meant to inform, not discourage. If you’re behind, use it as a starting point to adjust your savings rate, retirement age, or expenses.
Can I really retire just from market investments?
Many people do, especially those without pensions. It takes discipline, time, and planning. This calculator shows whether you’re headed in the right direction.
What return rate should I use?
7% is a safe long-term average. Conservative investors might use 5–6%, while more aggressive ones might use 8% or more.
How often should I check my progress?
At least once a year. As your income, expenses, or age changes, updating your inputs can keep your plan realistic.
What about inflation?
This tool uses a flat return rate and doesn’t adjust for inflation directly. But if you’re using 7%, that’s typically net of inflation historically.