A recent series of surveys and analyses highlight evolving perceptions and realities of financial security and retirement readiness among Americans. According to Bankrate, 55% of Americans believe an annual income of $200,000 or more is necessary to feel rich or financially free, with 39% saying $500,000 or more is required. Perceived net worth needed for financial comfort varies by generation: $329,000 for Gen Z, $847,000 for millennials, $783,000 for Gen X, and $943,000 for baby boomers, according to MarketWatch data. Despite these benchmarks, 77% of U.S. adults report not feeling completely financially secure, an increase from 75% in 2024 and 72% in 2023. Financial security also correlates with income, as 42% of Americans earning $100,000 or more feel completely secure, compared to only 12% of those earning under $50,000. Gender disparities exist as well, with 35% of women stating they are not financially secure and never will be, compared to 29% of men. Among generations, baby boomers are the most likely to feel completely financially secure at 31%, followed by millennials at 21%, Gen Z at 20%, and Gen X at 16%, per Yahoo. The retiring baby boomer generation holds a record $82.4 trillion in net worth, according to Yardeni, and a growing share of U.S. household assets is owned by those aged 55 and above, reflecting demographic shifts noted by Apollo Sløk. Meanwhile, the perception of six-figure earners as financially comfortable is changing, with many in this income bracket feeling financial pressure, as reported by Fortune Magazine. Entrepreneur highlights ongoing discussions about ideal retirement savings and ages across generations.