One third of retirement savers expect to keep working, T. Rowe Price finds

One third of retirement savers expect to keep working, T. Rowe Price finds
New survey reveals doubts about financial readiness and fading excitement for retirement
DEC 09, 2025

Another survey is backing up the changing shape of retirement as financial requirement and lifestyle preferences converge.

The global survey from T. Rowe Price suggests the traditional concept of retirement including stepping away from work for good is rapidly shifting, not just in the United State but internationally with about 34% of savers expecting to continue working after they retire, whether by choice or necessity. The US stands out with an above-average 37% of savers anticipating having a job during retirement years.

Economic concerns loom large in shaping those expectations with around half of respondents believing that a recession is likely within the next 18 months. Inflation, geopolitical instability, and elevated interest rates were highlighted as the biggest threats to financial security.

Only around a third of savers describe themselves as “excited for retirement” with those who feel more positive tending to have higher incomes, be married, and report stronger progress toward their savings goals.

Just 31% of those surveyed think they’ll be able to match or improve their current lifestyle once they stop working. Meanwhile, 17% fear they could deplete their savings, and only 27% feel prepared to withstand a major financial setback in retirement.

The firm’s report emphasizes that both individuals and the financial industry must adapt to these new expectations.

“Longer life spans, financial uncertainty, and shifting expectations are redefining retirement — transforming it from a fixed destination to an evolving journey that demands new thinking from both savers and the industry,” says retirement strategist Jessica Sclafani.

With many workers planning for extended careers but uncertain about what comes after, advisors and employers may face growing pressure to design strategies that support a more flexible and financially resilient version of retirement.

Latest News

Federal judge dismisses Eltek manipulation lawsuit against Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Federal judge dismisses Eltek manipulation lawsuit against Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

Nine-month electronic trading freeze and share lending program at the center of dismissed claim.

RIA wrap: Dynamic strikes South Carolina deal to reach $7B AUM milestone
RIA wrap: Dynamic strikes South Carolina deal to reach $7B AUM milestone

Meanwhile, Rossby Financial's leadership buildout rolls on with a new COO appointment as Balefire Wealth welcomes a distinguished retirement specialist to its national network.

Rethinking diversification amid a concentrated S&P 500
Rethinking diversification amid a concentrated S&P 500

With a smaller group of companies driving stock market performance, advisors must work more intentionally to manage concentration risks within client portfolios.

Merrill pays second settlement to former Miami Dolphins player, client of ex-broker
Merrill pays second settlement to former Miami Dolphins player, client of ex-broker

Professional athletes are often targets of scam artists and are particularly vulnerable to fraud.

Schwab touts AI as its biggest growth lever at investor day
Schwab touts AI as its biggest growth lever at investor day

The brokerage giant tells Wall Street it will use artificial intelligence to reach clients it has never been able to serve — and turn the technology's perceived threat into a competitive edge.

SPONSORED Beyond wealth management: Why the future of advice is becoming more human

As technical expertise becomes increasingly commoditized, advisors who can integrate strategy, relationships, and specialized expertise into a cohesive client experience will define the next era of wealth management

SPONSORED Durability over scale: What actually defines a great advisory firm

Growth may get the headlines, but in my experience, longevity is earned through structure, culture, and discipline