How Much Should You Have in Your 401(k) by Age?
By CalcSun Research · Published November 7, 2026
A widely used guideline (popularized by Fidelity) sets 401(k) and retirement targets as a multiple of your salary: about 1× by age 30, 3× by 40, 6× by 50, and 10× by 67. On a $100,000 salary that means roughly $100k saved by 30 and $1 million by retirement.
401(k) Targets by Age
| Age | Target (× salary) | On a $60k salary | On a $100k salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1× | $60,000 | $100,000 |
| 35 | 2× | $120,000 | $200,000 |
| 40 | 3× | $180,000 | $300,000 |
| 45 | 4× | $240,000 | $400,000 |
| 50 | 6× | $360,000 | $600,000 |
| 55 | 7× | $420,000 | $700,000 |
| 60 | 8× | $480,000 | $800,000 |
| 67 | 10× | $600,000 | $1,000,000 |
How to Read These
These are rules of thumb, not hard rules — they assume you retire around 67 and replace most of your income from savings plus Social Security. If you are behind, the biggest levers are raising your contribution rate and capturing the full employer match (free money).
Will You Hit the Target?
Compound growth does most of the heavy lifting if you start early. Project your own balance to retirement with the 401(k) Calculator, or see what a $60k salary can grow to in the $60k 401(k) guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I have in my 401(k) at 30? About one times your annual salary, per the common guideline — roughly $60k on a $60k salary.
How much by 40? About three times your salary.
What if I'm behind? Increase your contribution rate, always get the full employer match, and take advantage of catch-up contributions after 50.
Guideline multiples are general benchmarks, not personalized advice. Your target depends on your spending, other savings and retirement age.