2026 GR3

Global Retirement Reality Report
Rethinking the road to retirement

What's inside

Pre-retirees have expectations. Retirees reveal what really happens.

This year, we added retirees to our survey to see how their experience can help inform and shape plan design today. Discover how pre-retirees’ expectations compare with retirees’ lived experiences, what is driving uncertainty—and how retirement providers can help participants prepare for an unpredictable transition.

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Key study findings and analysis

The forces shaping retirement confidence, timing, income expectations, and planning behaviors.

Retirement readiness insights

How participants can approach an early or unexpected retirement and move
from saving to spending.

Income, flexibility, and control

What participants say they want from retirement income.

About the Global Retirement Reality Report

Our annual online survey, conducted by international data analytics firm YouGov in July 2026, engaged a total of 4,040 respondents in the US.

2,447

Employed, pre-retirees

1,593

Retirees

811

Union members

Respondents: 2,447 employed, pre-retirees; 1,593 retirees; 811 Union members. All individuals were 45+; US residents; employed either full-time, part-time, or retired; and must participate/have participated in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan.

More respondent details

What were respondents' views on retirement confidence, income planning, and overall preparedness?

Find out

Quick Quiz

What percentage of surveyed retirees left the workforce earlier than planned?

18%

35%

58%

72%

Correct! 58% of retirees surveyed left work earlier than planned, primarily due to health. Women were more likely to cite employment concerns or caregiving.

Incorrect. Please try again!

2025 Retirement Report and Regional Snapshots

Global Retirement Reality Report

Retirement optimism is rising. But does that equal readiness?

Find out more

Australia Retirement Snapshot

Retirement optimism in Australia is higher than global peers, but a gender gap persists as do concerns about retirement income.

Find out more

Canada Retirement Snapshot

Though a bit more optimistic than 2023, Canadians’ retirement confidence lags global peers. Explore why and what may help.

Find out more

Ireland Retirement Snapshot

Retirement optimism in Ireland has increased from 2023 but optimism doesn’t equal preparedness. How can DC schemes help?

Find out more

United Kingdom Retirement Snapshot

UK retirement optimism remains low compared to global peers. What can DC plans do now to help build greater confidence?

Find out more

United States Retirement Snapshot

Retirement optimism in the US held steady, so why are more participants questioning if they can retire when they want?

Find out more

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