9 Realities of Canadian Retirement
New research reveals a growing gap between retirement expectations and retirement reality.
Based on a national survey of more than 3,300 Canadians, CAAT Pension Plan’s latest research report, 9 Realities of Canadian Retirement, explores retirement readiness, workplace pensions, retirement confidence, and the challenges Canadians face when planning for the future.
Key findings
The report highlights several important realities shaping retirement in Canada today and what they mean for employees, employers, and retirement readiness.
While 25% of Canadians expect personal savings to be their primary source of retirement income, just 15% of retirees say that is actually the case.
Canadians’ ideal retirement age is 60, but the age they realistically expect is 67 — a seven-year gap they close by delaying, not by saving more.
58% of non-retired Canadians say not having a workplace pension limits their ability to save.
82% of Canadians say they are more likely to take a job that offers a pension, while 85% say pensions increase motivation at work.
Canadians value predictability, confidence and dependable retirement income.
Why it matters?
The research points to a growing disconnect between retirement expectations and retirement reality.
The research suggests Canadians are looking for retirement solutions that make saving easier, reduce complexity, and provide greater confidence about the future.
For employers, the findings offer valuable insights into workforce expectations, succession planning, and the role retirement benefits can play in supporting employee financial well-being. As competition for talent continues, retirement programs are becoming an increasingly important part of the employer value proposition and broader workforce strategy.
Download the full research report to explore all nine realities shaping the future of retirement in Canada.
Download the reportReady to explore workplace pension solutions for your organization?
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