Americans set $1.46M retirement target, but fear it won't last

Northwestern Mutual's 2026 Planning & Progress Study shows Americans now peg retirement at $1.46 million (up $200k from last year) even as 46% doubt they'd be financially ready and 48% fear their savings could run out. With longer lifespans—some expect to reach 100—and many planning to retire at 65, experts urge focusing on a sustainable plan rather than a single target. They cite rules like 25x annual spending, the $1,000-a-month rule, and the 4% rule as starting points, and offer strategies: max 401(k) contributions (2026 limit: $24,500), pay down debt, build an emergency fund, plan for healthcare, and consider delaying Social Security to 70 for bigger benefits.