But experts say it may take even less in superannuation to have a secure retirement, especially if you own your own home.

What do the numbers show?

According to estimates for the March 2025 quarter, a household with a ‘comfortable lifestyle’ — including a reasonable car, health insurance and an overseas trip — spends $73,875 per year for a couple who own their home and about $52,383 for a single homeowner.

Someone on the age pension is estimated to spend $29,024 per year, and a couple $43,753, with both figures including supplements.

According to estimates for the March 2025 quarter, a household with a ‘comfortable lifestyle’ spends $73,875 per year for a couple who own their home and about $52,383 for a single homeowner. Source: SBS News

ASFA CEO Mary Delahunty attributed the rise in retirement affordability to higher super contributions.

“With the 12 per cent super guarantee coming in, we can now say that the system foundations are cemented for young, working people to have a comfortable retirement. It’s a moment all Australians should be proud of,” Delahunty said.

Homeowners better off than renters

“Pensioners benefit from a bunch of discounts on council rates, electricity, medicines and other benefits that add up to an implicit income of thousands of dollars a year.”