UK Retirement Income as % of Final Salary
A 'comfortable' UK retirement is often quoted at 50-70% of final salary. The exact figure depends on housing costs, lifestyle, and life expectancy.
The PLSA publishes UK retirement standards: Minimum (~£14k), Moderate (~£31k), Comfortable (~£43k) per single retiree (2024/25 figures, rising annually).
Worked examples
Final salary £50k, retirement income £30k = 60% replacement ratio.
£40k final, £25k retirement = 62.5%.
Sources:
PLSA Retirement Living Standards
· retrieved 2026-05-15.
Frequently asked questions
What's a 'safe' withdrawal rate?
4% rule (US Trinity Study) is a common starting point, with 3-3.5% often cited as safer for UK markets and longer life expectancy. Use IFA advice for your situation.
Should I aim for 100% replacement?
Rarely necessary — mortgage usually paid, no commute, no NI, possibly downsized. 60-70% often replicates working-life lifestyle.