Retirement should be a time of relaxation and security after years of hard work. For many Americans, however, and especially for women, the dream of a secure retirement is challenged by the harsh reality of inadequate savings. Despite progress in gender equality, a significant gap persists in retirement savings between men and women in the United States.

Understanding the Gender Gap

Nearly 20 percent of women, versus 12 percent of men, have less than $10,000 in retirement savings, and 28 percent more women than men have less than $50,000 in retirement savings. The gender gap in retirement savings is an issue rooted in various socioeconomic factors. Typically, women earn less over their lifetimes than men due to the gender pay gap. Women earn 16% less on average than men with black, Hispanic and indigenous women facing an even larger earnings’ gap. This disparity translates directly into lower Social Security benefits and employer-sponsored retirement contributions for women. Additionally, women are more likely to take career breaks, or work part-time, to take on caregiving responsibility for children or elderly relatives, further reducing their earning potential and ability to save for retirement.

An additional challenge, women tend to live longer than men, meaning they need to stretch their retirement savings over a more extended period, and often need long-term care services and supports for more time. Long-term care expenses range from $50,000 to well over $100,000 annually, and are out of reach even for some Americans with significant retirement savings. This longevity risk exacerbates the financial challenges faced by women in retirement. Plus, traditional gender roles and societal expectations may influence women’s attitudes and education around financial planning and investing, leading to less engagement with retirement savings vehicles.

The Impact on Retirement Security

The gender gap in retirement savings has profound implications for women’s financial security in retirement. Without adequate savings, women are at risk of experiencing poverty, housing insecurity, and dependence on government assistance in their later years. Furthermore, the lack of financial autonomy can leave women more vulnerable to financial abuse and exploitation.

Addressing the Disparity

Closing the gender gap in retirement savings requires a concerted effort from policymakers, employers, and individuals alike. Policymakers can implement legislative reforms to promote pay equity, strengthen Social Security benefits for low-wage workers, and expand access to retirement savings programs, particularly for part-time and gig economy workers.

Employers play a crucial role in supporting women’s retirement security by offering equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and robust retirement benefits. Employers can also provide financial education and resources to help women navigate their retirement planning journey effectively.

On an individual level, women can take proactive steps to enhance their retirement savings, such as maximizing contributions to employer-sponsored retirement plans, opening and funding individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and seeking professional financial advice. Additionally, women can advocate for themselves in the workplace by negotiating for higher salaries and benefits and actively participating in financial decision-making.

Closing the gender gap in retirement savings is essential for ensuring financial security and independence for all Americans, regardless of gender. By addressing the systemic barriers and inequalities that contribute to this disparity, we can create a more equitable and inclusive retirement system that empowers women to thrive in their later years.