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Inside Out Money

068. Is life more expensive in early retirement?

Jul 28, 2024
Is retirement really cheaper? The hosts dissect the common belief that spending decreases after leaving work, sharing personal anecdotes from their early retirement journey. They explore how life stages and family dynamics, particularly raising teenagers, influence household expenses. The conversation also delves into the 'retirement spending smile,' where initial splurging gives way to rising healthcare costs. Plus, they reflect on the unexpected financial decisions prompted by newfound freedom and the intricacies of adjusting budgets during this life transition.
33:07

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Retirees often experience higher expenses initially due to increased leisure activities and evolving family dynamics, challenging the belief that retirement costs less.
  • Understanding the 'retirement spending smile' concept is crucial, as it illustrates fluctuating spending patterns that require careful financial planning throughout retirement.

Deep dives

The Importance of Tracking Spending

Tracking spending is emphasized as a crucial component in managing finances, especially in the context of retirement planning. The speakers, having begun this process in 2020, highlight that understanding historical spending patterns can significantly aid in making informed financial decisions. The recorded data not only serves as a benchmark but also helps address curiosity from others regarding spending habits in retirement. Moreover, it stresses that it’s never too late to start tracking one's expenses to build a clearer picture of financial needs and expectations.

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