Gen Z think they’ll retire by the age of 60, research claims

Gen Z think they'll be retired earlier than any other generations

A poll of 2,000 working adults found 27 per cent of Gen Z want to invest their pensions into experiences rather than possessions, while 16 per cent dream of moving abroad later in life.

One in three plan to take up a brand-new hobby in retirement such as pottery, and 22 per cent hope to turn that passion into an extra income stream.

And 22 per cent imagine their golden years will be filled with cruises once they finally down tools.

However, despite these big ambitions for later life, 33 per cent having no idea how much they currently contribute to a pension pot each month.

Even so, 61 per cent say they would already be devastated if they couldn’t achieve their dream retirement.

Helen McGinty, head of financial advice distribution at Skipton Building Society, which commissioned the research, said: "Young people clearly have big dreams for retirement - from travelling the globe to starting entirely new chapters of their lives.

"But right now, too many are walking blindly into the future.

"With many not knowing how much they’re contributing each month to their pension, yet saying they’ll be devastated if they couldn’t achieve their dream retirement.

"Gen Z need to wake up to the reality that those dreams won’t happen without planned and considered action.

"The earlier you start planning, the more options and flexibility you’ll have later on.

"It’s also important to consider how best to spread your retirement pot across your lifetime, especially as health and lifestyle needs change.

"Small steps taken today can make a huge difference to how comfortably, and confidently, you’re able to live in the future."

The research also found Gen Z currently believe they’ll be able to retire at the age of 60 – the earliest expectation of all generations.

Millennials think they’ll finish work at 62, while Gen X hope to retire at 64.

Baby Boomers, meanwhile, expect to stop working at 68.

For 57 per cent of Gen Z, savings are expected to fund their retirement, and 35 per cent imagine cashing in investments and shares to bankroll later life.

While 21 per cent anticipate needing a small side hustle to afford everything they want to do.

When it comes to seeking advice, 26 per cent of Gen Z have spoken to their parents about retirement planning.

However, 15 per cent have turned to AI tools such as ChatGPT to learn more, according to the research carried out by OnePoll.

It also emerged 25 per cent of all those polled expect to spend more of their pension early in retirement.

Six in 10 (57 per cent) want to enjoy it as much as possible while they’re still fit and active, while 43 per cent hope to pursue hobbies sooner rather than later.

And 33 per cent simply believe they won’t need as much money as they get older.

Helen McGinty from Skipton Building Society added: “Understanding how long your retirement might last, and how your money will need to stretch across that time, is crucial.

“Without a clear picture, it’s easy to underestimate how much you’ll actually need to fund the lifestyle you’re imagining.

"Getting to grips with your options early allows you to make informed choices and avoid unpleasant surprises later on.

"When it comes to achieving your financial goals, there’s no one-size-fits-all.

"What works for someone else might be completely wrong for you, which is why speaking to an expert can make all the difference.

“We offer free money advice to help you make the most of your savings. And for those looking to invest or maximise their pension, we also offer financial advice on the high street - giving you the confidence to plan for the future in a way that feels achievable and tailored to you.”

Top tips to help you retire sooner

1. Grab the Free Money

If your employer matches pension contributions, maximise it early. It’s money that boosts your pot. No other investment offers such a return.

2. Don’t Accidentally Overwork

Planning isn’t just about avoiding too little – some people save more than they need and work longer than necessary. Knowing your target lets you stop at the right time.

3. Balance the ‘Three Spans’

A great retirement needs the right mix of life span, health span and wealth span. Too much of one and not enough of the others means you’re not living it to the full.

4. Expect Spending Highs and Lows

Retirement spending isn’t flat. You’ll splurge more in the early ‘go-go’ years on travel and bucket-list experiences, then slow down, before possibly needing more for later-life care.

5. Build Smart Habits Early

If retirement feels far off, focus on good habits now: boost contributions, understand pension tax perks, and use them to retain more income – especially if edging into higher tax bands.

6. Early Planning = More Control

The sooner you plan, the more power you have over your retirement date, income and lifestyle. Starting early helps you shape the retirement you genuinely want.

7. Let Time Grow Your Money

Planning early gives you more years of compound growth. Small contributions today could become big gains tomorrow simply by giving your money time to work.

8. Don’t Rely Only on the State Pension

State pension age keeps rising. Building your own pension and retirement plans means you can have more flexibility to choose when you retire.

9. Use Every Tax Break

Each year you delay retirement planning means missing valuable tax allowances and pension tax relief. These make a meaningful difference to your eventual pot.

10. Know Your Numbers

Understanding how much income you’ll have – and how much you’ll need – is key to confident retirement planning. Clarity now prevents surprises later.

11. Check Your Pensions Regularly

Are your pensions performing well? Are fees reasonable? Is the risk level right? Regular reviews can help make sure your plans stay on track for the future you want.

12. Expert Advice Brings Peace of Mind

Many people worry whether they can retire and if their money will last. Expert advice can help you retire earlier, withdraw money wisely and use the right products to make your pot last longer.