How much do I need to retire?

A common rule of thumb is 25× your expected annual spending (the basis of the 4% rule). This calculator estimates your projected balance so you can compare it against that target.

What return rate should I use?

Historically, a diversified stock-heavy portfolio has averaged about 7% after inflation over the long term; a balanced portfolio closer to 5%. These are long-run averages, not guarantees — try a range.

The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your balance in the first year of retirement, then adjusting for inflation, with a high probability the money lasts 30 years. It is a guideline, not a guarantee.

Does this account for inflation?

Yes. We show both the nominal projected balance and its value in todays dollars using the inflation rate you set.

No. Calculations happen in your browser and nothing is stored or sent to a server.

Retirement Savings Calculator

Project your nest egg at retirement from your current savings and monthly contributions — then see what it could pay you each month.

Your details

Current age Retirement age

Current retirement savings

Monthly contribution

Expected return

Inflation

≈ / month at the 4% rule

In today's dollars

Years to grow

Where the balance comes from

Contributed: Growth:

How to Use

1
Enter your age. Add your current age and the age you plan to retire.
2
Add your savings. Enter your current retirement balance and how much you contribute each month.
3
Set assumptions. Adjust the expected annual return and inflation rate (defaults shown).
4
Review your result. See your projected balance, inflation-adjusted value, and estimated monthly income.

Calculation Method

This calculator projects your balance using the future-value formula for a lump sum plus a series of regular contributions:

FV = P(1 + r)ⁿ + C × [((1 + r)ⁿ − 1) / r]

P = current savings
C = annual contribution (monthly × 12)
r = expected annual return
n = years until retirement

The today's-dollars figure discounts the result by your inflation rate: FV ÷ (1 + i)ⁿ. Estimated monthly income applies the 4% safe-withdrawal rule (4% of the balance, divided by 12).

Examples

Example. A 35-year-old with $50,000 saved, contributing $600/month, retiring at 65, assuming a 7% return: the projected balance is roughly $1.34M (about $4,470/month under the 4% rule), or roughly $550,000 in today's dollars at 3% inflation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Disclaimer: Calculations are projections based on the assumptions you provide and are for informational purposes only. They are not financial, tax, or investment advice. Investment returns are not guaranteed. Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) before making retirement decisions.

Data source: Historical market averages (illustrative). 4% safe-withdrawal rule (Bengen / Trinity study).