Retirement Goal Calculator
Figure out how much you need to retire based on your desired lifestyle
How This Works
This calculator uses the 4% rule to work backwards from your desired retirement income. If you want $5,000 per month from your portfolio, you need 25 times your annual spending (because 4% of that amount equals your annual need).
We subtract any Social Security income you expect, since that reduces how much you need to withdraw from your portfolio. The remaining gap is what your investments need to cover.
What This Does Not Include
- Pensions or other guaranteed income sources beyond Social Security
- Part-time work or side income during retirement
- Inheritance or windfalls you might receive
- Rental income or other passive income streams
- Changes in spending patterns over time (many spend less in later retirement)
1. Monthly Income Need
Start with your current spending: Most people need 70-80% of their pre-retirement income. If you spend $6,000 monthly now, you might need $4,200-$4,800 in retirement (no commute, no work clothes, no retirement contributions, house possibly paid off).
2. Social Security (Optional)
3. Withdrawal Strategy
Your Retirement Goal
Income Breakdown
Desired Monthly Income
Desired Annual Income
Social Security (monthly)
Social Security (annual)
Portfolio Must Cover (annual)
Portfolio Details
Base Portfolio Need
Safety Buffer Added
Withdrawal Rate Used
Total Portfolio Target
What This Means
Important Notes
This is a starting point, not a guarantee. Actual needs vary based on health, lifestyle changes, market performance, inflation, tax situation, and countless other factors. Consider running multiple scenarios with different assumptions. Many retirees find they spend less over time, while others face increasing healthcare costs. Your mileage will vary.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Use this as one data point in your retirement planning, not as a definitive answer. Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance.