How Much Should You Have Saved by 55?
Australian savings, super, and net worth benchmarks for age 55. See where you stand and how to catch up if you're behind.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Benchmarks at Age 55
Savings (median)
$90,000.00
Super (median)
$270,000.00
Net Worth (median)
$600,000.00
Based on ABS Household Wealth data and super fund reports. You have 12 years until the standard retirement age of 67.
Savings Benchmarks at Age 55
| Category | Below Average | Median | Good |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savings | < $30,000.00 | $90,000.00 | $250,000.00+ |
| Super | < $130,000.00 | $270,000.00 | $550,000.00+ |
| Net Worth | < $250,000.00 | $600,000.00 | $1,200,000.00+ |
Super at 55 vs Retirement Target
The median person at 55 has reached 39% of the ASFA target. With employer SG contributions and compound growth over 12 years, this gap can close — but topping up helps.
You're on track if...
- ✓You have at least $90,000.00 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 $270,000.00.
- ✓Your total net worth (savings + super + property equity - debts) is above $600,000.00.
You might be behind if...
- ⚠Your savings are below $30,000.00 and you don't have an emergency fund.
- ⚠Your super balance is below $130,000.00.
- ⚠You have significant consumer debt (credit cards, personal loans) relative to your income.
- ⚠Your super is well below the ASFA comfortable retirement target of $690,000 and you haven't started catching up.
How to Catch Up at 55
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.
You can make catch-up concessional super contributions if your balance is below $500,000 (unused cap from prior years).
Consider downsizer contributions — if you sell your home after age 55, you can contribute up to $300,000 to super.
Review your retirement timeline. Even working 1-2 extra years can significantly increase your super balance.
Check your Age Pension eligibility — it can supplement your super income in retirement.
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 55 in Australia?
By age 55, the median Australian has approximately $90,000.00 in accessible savings. A good target is $250,000.00 or more. This excludes superannuation and property equity.
How much super should I have at 55?
By age 55, the median super balance is approximately $270,000.00. A good position would be $550,000.00 or more. You have 12 years until the standard retirement age of 67.
What should my net worth be at 55?
The median net worth for Australians around age 55 is approximately $600,000.00, including super, property equity, and savings minus debts. A strong position is $1,200,000.00 or above.
Am I behind on savings at 55?
If your total savings are below $30,000.00 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.