One of the biggest financial questions that Australians face is how much superannuation they need to retire comfortably.
While the oft-cited figure of $1 million may seem like an ideal target, the reality is that there is no universal answer.
Retirement needs vary based on lifestyle choices, personal circumstances, and access to additional income sources such as the Government Age Pension.
The reality of super balances in Australia
Despite the perception that a seven-figure super balance is necessary, most Australians are retiring with much less.
According to the Australian Tax Office, courtesy of Australian Super, the median superannuation balance for individuals aged 60–64 is $211,996 for men and $158,806 for women. While these figures may seem low compared to some retirement estimates, the Age Pension serves as a financial safety net for those with insufficient savings.
However, relying solely on the Age Pension may not provide the level of comfort many aspire to in their retirement years.
This makes it very important to have a retirement savings goal that aligns with your personal expectations and lifestyle aspirations.
A comfortable retirement
A great starting point in figuring out how much superannuation you will need is to understand what a comfortable retirement looks like for you.
For some, retirement might involve extensive travel and frequent social outings, while for others, it could mean a quieter lifestyle focused on spending time with family and pursuing hobbies.
The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) provides a benchmark for two types of retirement lifestyles:
- Comfortable lifestyle – Allows for a good standard of living, including private health insurance, regular leisure activities, and occasional travel.
- Modest lifestyle – Covers basic living costs, including essential expenses and some leisure activities, but with limited discretionary spending.
How much super do you need?
ASFA estimates that for a comfortable retirement, retirees will need the following super balances at age 67:
- Single person: $595,000
- Couple: $690,000
Whereas, for a modest retirement, retirees require significantly less:
- Single person: $100,000
- Couple: $100,000
It is worth noting that these figures assume homeownership and do not factor in rental costs, which could significantly impact the amount needed.
How much do you need annually?
According to ASFA's Retirement Standard, retirees will need the following annual budgets:
- Comfortable lifestyle: $73,031 per year for a couple, $51,814 per year for a single person.
- Modest lifestyle: $47,475 per year for a couple, $32,930 per year for a single person.
By comparison, the Age Pension provides a much lower annual income, which reinforces the importance of having superannuation savings to supplement government support.
Planning for your ideal retirement
There are several factors to consider when determining how much super you'll need:
- Your desired lifestyle – Do you plan to travel frequently or live a simpler, budget-conscious life?
- Additional income sources – Investments, part-time work, and the Age Pension can supplement your super.
- Extra contributions – Making voluntary contributions can help grow your super balance over time.
Foolish takeaway
While the ideal superannuation balance for retirement will vary for each individual, having a clear goal based on your desired lifestyle is essential.
Understanding how much you need and planning early can make a significant difference in ensuring a financially secure and enjoyable retirement.
Whether aiming for a comfortable or modest lifestyle, taking proactive steps now can help you achieve greater financial independence in your later years.
