How much does the average person spend in retirement?

As financial advisers, we are often asked by those approaching retirement, “How much money do most people spend in retirement?” A study in partnership with Loughborough University offered valuable insights into this question.

This question has always been challenging because everyone has different desires and lifestyles in retirement. As a result, the research has been divided into different sections: minimum, moderate, and comfortable lifestyle. The amounts also vary for a single person versus a couple and those living in London versus the rest of the country. This provides 12 different options to consider, covering the majority of situations.

Below are the outcomes from the latest findings in 2023:

The overview figure is a great starting point for understanding your needs. This can be further broken down into different areas, indicating which level might be closest to your situation. Below is a summary for each main area, including house maintenance and weekly shopping. This gives more context into each area and highlights what sort of lifestyle one can have at each level.

For further information and a deeper dive into the Retirement Living Standards, you can visit the website: https://www.retirementlivingstandards.org.uk/

Everyone’s financial circumstances are unique. The Retirement Living Standards serve as a practical, rule-of-thumb guide based on typical costs for many people in retirement. They are the first step on the journey: you might want to consider using them to develop your own personal target for retirement planning. This practical approach can help you feel reassured and confident in your retirement planning.

Ultimately, the Retirement Living Standards are a valuable tool to assist individuals in effectively planning and budgeting for retirement, enabling them to achieve the lifestyle they desire without experiencing financial strain.

Considering your unique circumstances and options is essential, and discussing these with your Beechwood adviser is recommended. They will collaborate with you to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific needs and goals.

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Reviews from our Clients

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MAK Turton profile picture
MAK Turton
3 weeks ago
Having worked with Beechwood to set up a trust for a relative's current and potential needs, I decided to get advice about my own financial situation. Beechwood have been very helpful, are always approachable and have given me the confidence to move forward with plans. I remain a client and am reassured that I will have support if and when needed in the future. I have recommended Beechwood to friends.
Celine Caux profile picture
Celine Caux
3 weeks ago
Jamine was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful throughout the whole process. The onboarding was clear, straightforward, and easy to follow, which made everything feel much less overwhelming.

I especially appreciated being supported by a woman who genuinely understood my insecurities and concerns around pensions and financial planning. She made me feel comfortable, listened to, and confident in the decisions I was making. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional and compassionate pension advice.
David Ford profile picture
David Ford
1 month ago
Very good service sorting out our personal finances pre- and post-retirement. Listened well to our needs and provided clear and comprehensive advice.
Jayne Coleman profile picture
Jayne Coleman
1 month ago
Beechwood FS and specifically Stephen Sale have, over several years, supported me in financially navigating the road to and through retirement. Stephen has always and without fail provided me with innovative solutions and tailor made advice. Through regular contact, discussion and also the understanding between us has resulted in a partnership I really value and one which also gives me financial confidence for the future.
GRAHAM COLEMAN profile picture
GRAHAM COLEMAN
1 month ago
Stephen Sale manages to provide a personal but at the same time professional service. Certainly no hesitation in highly recommending his service and advice.
Nicolas Soames profile picture
Nicolas Soames
1 year ago
I have found Beechwood Financial Services to be excellent and reliable advisors for me as my circumstances changed considerably. Stephen Sale and his team listened, took on board my requirements, absorbing the complications, gave clear and rational advice...and when I ok'd it, implemented the plan. I feel very confident that all my intentions were met. Also, I must add that the company's internet security processes are seriously confidence-building!
Holly Bagshaw profile picture
Holly Bagshaw
2 years ago
Vig was so helpful and friendly. I was really grateful for his advice and he really understood my situation and was very kind and supportive. Will definitely use these services again in the future if I need to.
Xanthe C profile picture
Xanthe C
2 years ago
I submitted an enquiry to Beechwood Financial Services having found them on the Financial Conduct Authority directory. I was contacted promptly by Vig, we discussed what I wanted to acheive from an appointment about pensions. I provided some information before the meeting so that Vig could prepare some options for me. The office is in the same building as the Travel Lodge hotel, a little confusing at first but I was guided to the right place by Beechwood staff. My meeting was with Vig and Phil, Vig had consolidated and summarised all of the "bits" of information I had provided to present options available to me. Advice without pressure. I would happily recommend Vig and Phil at Beechwood and will return to them for more financial or pension advice in the future.
Jonathan Pomroy profile picture
Jonathan Pomroy
2 years ago
I have used Stephen and the Beechwood team for a number of years. They are aways very helpful and prompt in dealing with any queries. Would highly recommend speaking to them for any pension and financial advice.
First class, personalised financial planning from true experts in their field.
Vig always takes time to fully understand our circumstances and provide constructive, non-judgemental advice.
For advice on pensions, investments and retirement planning, I cannot recommend Vig, Michelle and the Beechwood team highly enough.

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Fretherne Road
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