How Much Do Upper-Class Retirees Spend Each Month At 75?

Retirement at age 75 looks very different depending on income levels. For the upper class, expenses often exceed what the average retiree spends, as lifestyle choices, health care, and discretionary spending drive higher costs.

With recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and financial studies, we can get a clearer picture of what upper-class retirees spend monthly and how those expenses compare to other retirees.

Average Spending for Retirees Aged 75+

According to the Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES) from the BLS, retirees aged 75 and older spent about $53,031 annually in 2023. That equals roughly $4,419 per month.

This figure is significantly lower than what retirees aged 65 to 74 spend, which averaged $65,149 annually, or $5,429 monthly. The decline reflects natural shifts in lifestyle, health, and energy levels as retirees grow older.

However, this average includes all income groups. For upper-class retirees, the spending levels are much higher—often double or even triple these amounts.

Monthly Spending for Upper-Class Retirees

While BLS data does not break down spending by wealth categories, studies from retirement research groups provide insights.

The Employee Benefit Research Institute found that 3% of retirees spend more than $7,000 per month, and many in the upper class report spending $10,000 or more monthly.

This puts annual spending at $120,000+ for wealthy retirees, reflecting the lifestyle choices, travel, second homes, and higher medical expenses often associated with this group.

Breakdown of Estimated Monthly Expenses for Upper-Class Retirees (Age 75):

Category	Average Spending (Monthly)	Notes for Upper-Class Retirees
Housing (mortgage, taxes, maintenance, second homes)	$3,000–$4,000	Many own multiple properties or luxury homes
Food & Dining	$1,200–$1,800	Fine dining, organic foods, premium groceries
Transportation (cars, insurance, travel)	$1,000–$1,500	Luxury vehicles, frequent travel expenses
Health Care	$1,200–$2,000	Private insurance, specialists, long-term care planning
Entertainment & Travel	$2,000–$3,000	Cruises, international trips, hobbies, events
Miscellaneous & Gifts	$1,000+	Charitable giving, family support, luxury purchases

Total Monthly Estimate: $9,500–$12,000+

This estimate shows how easily expenses rise for upper-class retirees, particularly in housing and travel.

Why Spending Declines After Age 75

Even among wealthy households, spending tends to follow a three-phase retirement model:

• Go-Go Years (60s to early 70s): Highest spending period, with retirees traveling, purchasing vacation homes, and enjoying hobbies.
• Slow-Go Years (mid-70s to early 80s): Spending begins to taper as health changes and travel becomes less frequent.
• No-Go Years (late 80s+): Spending declines sharply, as retirees focus more on essential health care and home living.

At age 75, many retirees are in the transition between go-go and slow-go years, meaning spending is still relatively high, particularly for wealthier households.

Differences Between Upper-Class and Average Retirees

The upper class not only spends more—they also maintain greater financial stability.

• Net Worth Growth: Wealthy retirees often draw less than what their investments earn, allowing them to grow their wealth even during retirement.
• Luxury Lifestyle: Access to premium healthcare, frequent international travel, and higher spending on leisure elevate their expenses.
• Security vs. Necessity: While lower-income retirees may spend more than they earn (dipping into savings), upper-class retirees have the ability to sustain higher spending without financial stress.

At age 75, the average retiree spends around $53,031 annually, but for upper-class retirees, monthly expenses often exceed $10,000.

While spending naturally decreases with age, the wealthiest retirees continue to sustain higher costs due to lifestyle, health care, and leisure activities.

For those planning retirement, understanding these spending patterns is crucial to ensure long-term financial stability and comfort in later years.

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