In my early 40's I was at about 10% of what I wanted to retire on. Fast forward 10 years and that has increased to about 40% of what I figure I need. I should be really close when I hit 60 to being where I want to be. If I didn't have expensive hobbies, I could have retired at 50 but my life would be boring. The quality family time has been worth every penny spent. As others have said, the amount you need is relative to the lifestyle you want to maintain. I was talking to my dad today and his only regret was that he didn't retire earlier and do some of the things that he had hoped to do. His advice was to enjoy life while you are still able, at 79 he sees some of the things he wanted to do slipping through his fingers. You never know when your health will throw you a curve ball.