12 Signs You're Doing Better Than the Average American Over 70

Retirement comes with its own unique set of challenges, and a surprising number of people struggle to make their savings last. If you've ever wondered how your own situation stacks up, there are clear benchmarks that can show you whether you're on a stronger footing than most.

Here are the signs that suggest you've managed to avoid wasting your retirement savings and are setting yourself up for lasting stability.

For many retirees, Social Security is the main source of income. The average monthly check hovers just over $1,900, which often doesn't stretch far enough. If you've built up additional income streams (whether from pensions, retirement accounts, or part-time work), you're in a much stronger position than those living on Social Security alone.

Carrying debt into your 70s can be a major stress point. The average household headed by someone over 65 still holds over $45,000 in debt, often from mortgages, credit cards, or medical bills. If you've managed to pay off high-interest balances and keep monthly obligations low, you've carved out more financial breathing room than most.

Health care becomes one of the biggest expenses as we age. Out-of-pocket costs for a typical retiree couple can easily reach hundreds of thousands over their lifetime.

If you've set aside savings for medical needs, kept up with supplemental insurance, or tapped into health savings accounts, you've already outpaced many peers who may struggle to cover unexpected bills.

Housing is often the single largest expense for retirees. Many Americans over 70 still carry a mortgage or face rising rents that eat away at fixed incomes. 

If your home is paid off or your housing expenses take up only a modest portion of your income, you're in a stronger position than the average retiree who still faces steep monthly costs.

An emergency fund isn't just for younger families. It matters even more in retirement. 

Studies show 16% of retirees don't have an emergency fund at all for an unexpected expense. If you have a cushion set aside that can cover car repairs, home maintenance, or medical surprises, you're doing far better than many in your age group.

It can be tempting to tap heavily into savings once you stop working, but overspending early on is one of the most common retirement mistakes. 

Financial planners often suggest keeping withdrawals at a sustainable rate, around 4% or less per year. If you're pacing yourself and not depleting accounts too quickly, your money is likely to last longer than the average retiree's.

Retirement isn't just about paying bills. It's about enjoying the life you worked for. Many retirees are forced to cut back on hobbies, vacations, or social activities because money is tight. 

If you still have the flexibility to pursue the things you love, even on a modest scale, that's a sign your financial foundation is stronger than most.

Many grandparents want to help children or grandchildren with tuition or a first home. But too often, retirees give more than they can afford and put themselves at risk. 

If you're able to provide support without jeopardizing your own security, you're in a much healthier position than peers who have to choose between family generosity and personal stability.

Uncertainty is one of the most stressful parts of retirement. A surprising number of older Americans admit they aren't sure how long their money will last. 

If you've worked with a financial advisor, mapped out your spending, or regularly review your accounts, you've taken steps that give you more peace of mind than the average retiree.

Prices have risen sharply in recent years, and many retirees feel the pinch when fixed incomes don't stretch as far. 

If your spending plan adjusts with inflation, through cost-of-living increases, diversified investments, or simply careful budgeting, you're ahead of those who may be forced to cut back dramatically just to keep pace with rising costs.

Depending on one source of retirement income can be risky. Having a mix (such as Social Security, retirement accounts, rental income, or even part-time consulting) provides more stability. 

If you've diversified your income streams, you're better positioned than the average retiree who relies heavily on just one check each month.

Financial health isn't the only measure of success in retirement. Staying socially connected, volunteering, or engaging in community activities can reduce costs tied to health care down the road. 

If you've kept an active routine and surrounded yourself with support systems, you've given yourself advantages that extend well beyond money.

Reaching your 70s in a solid financial position isn't about perfection — it's about hitting key benchmarks that most retirees struggle to meet. If you have manageable housing costs, multiple income sources, and the ability to cover unexpected expenses, you're already ahead of the average American your age.

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, retirees who track their spending closely are far more likely to be financially secure. Building these habits can go a long way toward creating a more stress-free retirement, where money worries don't overshadow the years you've worked hard to enjoy.