2025 Workplace Plan Participant Survey

401(k) and stock plan participants reveal their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors around investing and saving.

Key findings

One-third (34%) of participants feel very likely to achieve their savings goals, down from 43% in 2024 as inflation continues to top the list of obstacles to reaching a comfortable retirement.
Only 11% have reduced their 401(k) contributions as a result of economic conditions. Instead, most are modifying their spending by reducing the number of purchases they make (40%) and buying cheaper products (39%).
Participants have become increasingly reliant on workplace plans for retirement security in recent years. On average, they estimate that their 401(k)s will provide 45% of their retirement income. Three-quarters (74%) say they wouldn’t take a job without a 401(k).
On average, workers expect to retire at age 66 and believe they will need $1.6 million saved. They estimate their savings will last 22 years in retirement.

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Key findings

Three-quarters of stock plan participants say equity compensation is very important, and nearly half consider it a “must-have” benefit when evaluating a new job.
Half view equity compensation as a critical tool to help achieve their retirement goals, and 72% feel very likely to reach those goals. Many also say it helps them build/increase wealth (38%), learn more about investing (37%), alleviate financial stress (32%), and boost employee morale (32%).
One in three participants report selling or exercising equity awards to pay for immediate financial needs (32%), diversify their portfolio (29%), or accomplish routine planning goals (29%).
Participants who work with an advisor are more likely to know how equity compensation fits into their portfolios, know how to exercise or sell their equity, know how to assess its dollar value, and understand tax implications.

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About the survey

Logica Research conducted an online survey between April 30 and May 17, 2025, of U.S. employees aged 21-70, employed by companies with at least 25 people, regarding their 401(k) and/or equity plan participation, with data being self-reported and unverified. The survey included 1,000 401(k) participants and an additional 100 Gen Z 401(k) participants from providers across the country, and also included 420 participants in equity compensation and/or employee stock purchase programs from providers across the country.

Media Contact: Mike Peterson