How I could retire with half a million made from ASX dividend shares

These stocks can pay an impressive flow of dividends.

ASX dividend shares with a good dividend yield could be the ticket to retiring.

Most people love the idea of being able to just live off dividend income, but the tricky part is knowing how much we need.

If we had a portfolio with a 2% dividend yield, it would take $2 million to get $40,000 in annual dividend income.

But, by using ASX dividend shares with high dividend yields, we can significantly reduce how much money is needed, if we choose well.

Couple holding a piggy bank, symbolising superannuation.

Image source: Getty Images

High-yield ASX dividend shares can work

I wouldn't just go for the highest-yield ASX dividend shares if they don't have a good future. A dividend stock isn't just a one-year investment. Ideally, it's meant to be for many years.

The right strategy, in my opinion, is to go for businesses that are likely to be able to grow their payouts pleasingly over future years.

What sort of businesses have good yields and could deliver growth in the future?

I like the look of names like GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG), Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) and Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW). A diversified portfolio should have more than three individual stock names, but the three I've mentioned could be a good starting point.

According to Commsec, the average (grossed-up) dividend yield for 2024 of the three stocks I mentioned is projected to be 7.9%.

With a yield of 7.9%, investors could get a grossed-up annual dividend income of around $40,000 from ASX dividend shares. In some places in Australia, that may be enough, though the dividends can also be supplemented by interest, pension payments and other forms of income in retirement.

To build up to half a million dollars, I'd suggest either investing for capital growth up until retirement and then adjusting the portfolio for dividends or reinvesting dividends from ASX dividend shares until the desired goal(s) are reached.

If we choose the right stocks, year one of retirement could pay $40,000 and year two could see a larger amount of dividends.

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Metcash. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Dividend Investing

A man holds his hand under his chin as he concentrates on his laptop screen and reads about the ANZ share price
Dividend Investing

These cheap ASX dividend shares are down 30%+ and could be bargain buys

These beaten down shares could be worth a closer look at current prices.

Read more »

A woman holds out a handful of $50 Australian dollar notes.
Dividend Investing

296,399 shares of this ASX dividend stock pays an income equal to the Age Pension

This ASX dividend stock could be precisely what income seekers are looking for.

Read more »

Businessman smiles with arms outstretched after receiving good news.
Dividend Investing

Forget term deposits! I'd buy these ASX dividend shares instead

ASX dividend shares offer multiple benefits compared to banking products.

Read more »

Senior couple enjoying each other's company while walking on the beach.
Dividend Investing

3 super ASX dividend stocks that make my shortlist in November for passive income in 2027

Looking for an income boost next year? Here are three shares to consider.

Read more »

Man holding fifty Australian Dollar banknotes in his hands, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

2 compelling ASX shares with dividend yields above 10%

These businesses offer exceptionally high dividend yields.

Read more »

Rising stacks of coins next to a piggy bank.
Dividend Investing

$4,000 buys 2,564 shares in an impressively reliable ASX dividend stock

This stock offers significant dividend income.

Read more »

Woman shopping for cleaning products at a supermarket.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Coles shares fell 13%. How's the dividend yield looking?

Coles' pain could be income investors' gain.

Read more »

Person holding Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

2 ASX dividend shares I'd use to generate $400 a month in 2027

These two businesses have incredibly attractive income characteristics.

Read more »