Archive · 11 Jan 2026

Social Security Nearly Meets 40% Retirement Income Goal

Social Security Nearly Meets 40% Retirement Income Goal

Social Security was created to help people when they retire by covering about 40% of the money they need to live.

A new report shows that, on average, it covers about 38% of retirees' expenses.

However, this varies a lot from state to state.

In Kansas, Social Security covers nearly 45% of expenses, which is the highest.

But in Hawaii, it only covers about 21%.

This difference is mostly because some states have higher costs for housing, healthcare, and everyday things.

Even though some states are cheaper to live in, many retirees don't move there.

They often choose places that offer the things they value, like amenities and activities, even if it costs more.

Sources