So what makes a retiree happy in retirement? This is an important question, since you could spend 25 to 30 years in retirement. Knowing what makes retirement pleasurable for other retirees may help you plan your retirement.
One study found that approximately 60% of retirees are very satisfied with their retirement, 32% were moderately satisfied, and 8% were not at all satisfied. Retirees who were most satisfied with their retirement were older, had traditional pension benefits, and chose when to retire. Working increased retirement satisfaction, although a working spouse reduced satisfaction, indicating that spouses prefer spending retirement together. Good health also increased retirement satisfaction. The most significant determinant of retirement satisfaction was whether the individual retired voluntarily. Individuals forced to retire were 30% less likely to be very satisfied with their retirement (Source: What Makes Retirees Happy?, February 2005).