This report explores how people are living in retirement today, what’s shaping their financial wellbeing, and how advice makes a difference. It’s a valuable conversation starter and a useful tool to help you tailor your client conversations.
Why it matters
The report is based on new research into the behaviours, outcomes, and attitudes of UK retirees. Key findings include:
- 4 in 5 advised retirees say they’re satisfied with their income—compared to just 2 in 5 who’ve never taken advice.
- Nearly two-thirds of advised retirees saw their household income increase in the past year—almost double the rate of the wider retirement population .
- Advised clients are more likely to take proactive steps to protect their wealth and reduce tax exposure.
The report also highlights how financial planning supports confidence and peace of mind—something clients increasingly value.
Six retirement lifestyles
Understanding where your clients fit - or aspire to be - can help you shape more relevant, personalised advice. To help frame conversations, the report introduces six retirement personas based on age, income, and lifestyle. These include:
Under 65 with income under £35k
Focused on essentials and adjusting to retirement.
Under 65 with income over £35k
Enjoying travel, hobbies, and early retirement.
65–79 with income under £35k
Budget-conscious and adapting spending.
65–79 with income over £35k
Living well with room for leisure.
Over 80 with income under £35k
Relying on the State Pension with limited flexibility.
Over 80 with income over £35k
Staying active and independent with discretionary income.
What would you like to do next?
Share our customer-facing report summary page with your clients or download the full report now.
*Research by Quilter based on responses from 5,001 UK retirees, conducted in February 2025 by Censuswide and econometric analysis by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr).