BUSINESSFORTUNE
Vanguard’s alarming state of retirement in 2026: The average American has $167,970 in their account—or they have $44,115
Vanguard's 2026 report shows the average 401(k) balance is $167,970, but the median is $44,115, insufficient for retirement. Hardship withdrawals increased to 6% of participants, highlighting inequality and systemic issues in retirement savings. Plan design, not individual choices, determines savings outcomes.
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Adjacent reporting
- More workers are raiding their 401(k)s as average balances fall, Fidelity says
- 401(k) Hardship Withdrawals Are at Record Highs: What They Really Cost You
- The number of 401(k) millionaires just fell — but workers hit record savings rates. What’s going on?
- Fifteen million Britons aren't saving enough for retirement and risk income 'cliff edge' when they stop work, Government report warns