How Much Should You Have Saved by 40?
Australian savings, super, and net worth benchmarks for age 40. See where you stand and how to catch up if you're behind.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Benchmarks at Age 40
Savings (median)
$50,000.00
Super (median)
$100,000.00
Net Worth (median)
$250,000.00
Based on ABS Household Wealth data and super fund reports. You have 27 years until the standard retirement age of 67.
Savings Benchmarks at Age 40
| Category | Below Average | Median | Good |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savings | < $15,000.00 | $50,000.00 | $120,000.00+ |
| Super | < $50,000.00 | $100,000.00 | $200,000.00+ |
| Net Worth | < $100,000.00 | $250,000.00 | $550,000.00+ |
Super at 40 vs Retirement Target
The median person at 40 has reached 14% of the ASFA target. With employer SG contributions and compound growth over 27 years, this gap can close — but topping up helps.
You're on track if...
- ✓You have at least $50,000.00 in accessible savings (the median for your age).
- ✓You have 3-6 months of living expenses set aside as an emergency fund.
- ✓Your super balance is at or above $100,000.00.
- ✓Your total net worth (savings + super + property equity - debts) is above $250,000.00.
You might be behind if...
- ⚠Your savings are below $15,000.00 and you don't have an emergency fund.
- ⚠Your super balance is below $50,000.00.
- ⚠You have significant consumer debt (credit cards, personal loans) relative to your income.
- ⚠You have no property equity and limited investments outside super.
How to Catch Up at 40
Start with an emergency fund: aim for 3 months of expenses in a high-interest savings account.
Automate your savings with a direct debit on payday — even $50/week adds up to $2,600/year.
Maximise your concessional super contributions (up to $30,000/year including employer SG).
If you have unused concessional cap space from the past 5 years, you can carry it forward for a larger contribution.
Consider whether your super is invested appropriately — being too conservative now could cost you growth.
Savings Benchmarks by Age
Get Your Personalised Financial Score
The Money Check tool analyses your actual numbers — salary, super, savings, property, and debt — to give you a personalised score and 10-year forecast tailored to your age.
Run Your Full Money Check →Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I have saved by 40 in Australia?
By age 40, the median Australian has approximately $50,000.00 in accessible savings. A good target is $120,000.00 or more. This excludes superannuation and property equity.
How much super should I have at 40?
By age 40, the median super balance is approximately $100,000.00. A good position would be $200,000.00 or more. You have 27 years until the standard retirement age of 67.
What should my net worth be at 40?
The median net worth for Australians around age 40 is approximately $250,000.00, including super, property equity, and savings minus debts. A strong position is $550,000.00 or above.
Am I behind on savings at 40?
If your total savings are below $15,000.00 and you don't have an emergency fund, you may be behind. However, everyone's situation is different — if you've been investing in property, super, or education, your overall financial position may still be strong. Use the Money Check tool for a full assessment.
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.