While it seems that some of the most vocal figures in media and business don’t believe in retirement, most Americans still view it as a key life milestone worth working toward.

Many Still Dream Of Slowing Down, Even If It Feels Out Of Reach

Real estate mogul Grant Cardone, who is 67 years old, posted on X last year that he’ll never retire, citing three reasons: love for work, a sense of purpose, and the thrill of deadlines. “Work gives me a sense of purpose and contribution,” he wrote. “I do better when there are challenges to be resolved by some time. I like ‘can we do it?'”

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Podcast host Ben Shapiro has expressed similar views. “No one in the United States should be retiring at 65 years old. Frankly, I think retirement itself is a stupid idea unless you have some sort of health problem,” he said on “The Ben Shapiro Show” in 2024. Shapiro argues that Americans need purpose more than they need rest. “If you are mentally and physically healthy, taxpayers should not pay you to retire at 65,” he doubled down in a post on X. “When Social Security was created, life expectancy was 64. Today, it’s 78.”

Despite those arguments, most Americans disagree.

According to a 2024 survey by Wealth Enhancement Group, 77% of U.S. adults said they felt happy or grateful when thinking about retirement. Among those already retired, 90% said they didn’t regret the decision. A third even said it had been better than they expected.

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But getting there had become harder. Over half of non-retired Americans said inflation had delayed their plans by at least eight years, and about 80% weren’t confident they would have enough money saved to retire comfortably.

Confidence also varied by generation. Millennials were the most optimistic: 37% believed they were on track, and 5% said they had already hit their retirement goals. Gen Xers were the least prepared, with 25% admitting they hadn’t even set any retirement goals.

Even so, Americans aren’t giving up. Many are budgeting more carefully, increasing savings, and adjusting their expectations. Retirees who planned ahead are now prioritizing travel, hobbies, philanthropy, estate planning, and long-term care.

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How To Close The Gap

For couples nearing retirement, especially those over 50 with $100,000 or more in investable assets, getting personalized financial guidance can make a big difference. WiserAdvisor offers a free matching tool that connects users with vetted fiduciary financial advisors. These professionals can help build a tax-smart retirement drawdown plan, optimize Social Security, and ensure assets are protected for spouses or heirs.

What do Americans want most from retirement? Time. Travel and relaxation top the list for Gen Z and Gen X. Millennials prioritize family time. Boomers just want to rest.

Wealth Enhancement Group Portfolio Consulting Director Ayako Yoshioka summed it up: “When considering your golden years, a good plan centers on what you want out of life. First comes the vision, then come the numbers.”

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