How much money should I have saved by age 25? + MORE Jul 30th

So, you’re in your 30s and pretty happy about what you’ve achieved in life so far, whether that’s a promotion at work or owning your first home. But at this stage of life, you might also feel financially pinched. Maybe you’ve got a kid or two and are staring down serious daycare fees—on top of the ever-increasing cost of living, a daunting mortgage rate and student loan payments. Or maybe you’re stuck in a rut at work—but a career change could set back your savings and retirement plan contributions.

All the while, you’ve got a serious case of FOMO every time you check social media—all those friends who are jetting off on lavish vacations, buying new cars and splurging on cottages. How are ordinary Canadians actually doing this? And how can you get ahead and save more?

What’s the average savings for Canadians in their 30s? How much should they have saved?

A lot of Canadians are managing to save, despite the above financial challenges and obligations. According to Statistics Canada’s 2019 figures (the most recent available), the average person under age 35 had saved $9,905 towards retirement (RRSPs only) and held $27,425 in non-pension financial assets…

Financial experts suggest 25-year-olds save 20% of their annual income. But if you’re in your 20s and just starting your career, saving might not be a high priority. Expenses like rent, groceries and car payments seem more pressing—not to mention having a life and planning for big events like an adventure trip or your friend’s upcoming wedding.

With all these competing costs, coupled with Canada’s elevated rate of inflation, it might seem like you’re falling behind your peers financially—especially if you’re on TikTok or Instagram, where it seems like everyone is living their best life. But what’s a “normal” amount of savings for young adults in Canada? We find out.

Average savings for Canadians under 35

According to Statistics Canada’s pre-pandemic data on savings by age in Canada, households with a major income earner 35 years or younger saved an average of $4,782 in 2018. And its 2019 figures indicate that Canadians under 35 had average savings of $10,720 in the bank, along with $8,395 in a tax-free savings account (TFSA), and $9,905 in a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP)…

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MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigate money matters since 1999. Our editorial team of trained journalists works closely with leading personal finance experts in Canada. To help you find the best financial products, we compare the offerings from over 12 major institutions, including banks, credit unions and card issuers. Learn more about our advertising and trusted partners.

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