Answers · UK 2025/26
How much do I need to save for retirement in the UK?
Rule of thumb: pension pot of 20-25× annual desired retirement income (less State Pension £11,973). For Moderate UK retirement (£31,300 single), you need ~£500k private pot. Save 12-15% of income from age 25, or 18-22% from age 35.
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UK retirement savings target 2025/26 — PLSA/Loughborough Retirement Living Standards. Minimum £14,400 single / £22,400 couple. Moderate £31,300 / £43,100. Comfortable £43,100 / £59,000. Pot needed (4% safe withdrawal = 25×) after State Pension £11,973: Minimum £60,000. Moderate £483,000. Comfortable £778,000. Couples: combined State Pension £23,946 + shared private pot. Saving rates needed (today's money, 5% real return): from 25 — 12-15% gross for Moderate, 18-22% for Comfortable. From 35 — 18-22% for Moderate, 27-32% for Comfortable. Auto-enrolment 8% only delivers Minimum. Critical: maximise employer match, increase rate with every pay rise, use ISA + LISA + pension.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.