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Required vs. Desired Spending Calculator

Separate essential needs from discretionary wants to determine your true retirement portfolio needs

How This Calculator Helps

Understanding the difference between required (essential) and desired (discretionary) spending helps you plan for a secure retirement. Required expenses are non-negotiable (housing, food, healthcare), while desired expenses enhance your lifestyle (travel, hobbies, dining out). This calculator shows you two scenarios: the minimum portfolio for essentials only, and the ideal portfolio for your full desired lifestyle.

Your Retirement Spending

Essentials: housing, food, utilities, insurance, healthcare, property taxes
Discretionary: travel, hobbies, entertainment, dining out, gifts
Combined annual Social Security benefits (you + spouse)
Plan to this age for a secure retirement
Typical range: 3-5% (4% is traditional rule of thumb)
Conservative: 5-6%, Moderate: 6-8%, Aggressive: 8-10%

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RonBelisle.com — educational planning illustration. Review the displayed inputs, timing, assumptions and supported statutory scope. Results are estimates, not guaranteed outcomes or personalized advice. Retain scenario inputs with this printout.