The National Institute on Retirement Security’s unique, fact-based research on the benefits of pensions for employers, workers, and the economy is having an impact and changing the retirement conversation.
In 2025 across the country, Americans were increasingly worried about their financial security, both today and for the years ahead. Inflation continued to squeeze household budgets, the overall cost of living felt less affordable, and healthcare expenses kept rising with no sign of easing. At the same time, widespread concerns about the future of Social Security were shaking confidence in the very foundation of retirement security for millions. Together, there was a looming challenge leaving individuals and families increasingly challenged when it comes to preparing for retirement.
2025 was a year of significant achievement. Our research continued to shape the national conversation on retirement security and provided policymakers, employers, and retirement stakeholders with the fact-based analysis they need to make informed decisions.
Our research and progress in 2025 was possible because of the support of NIRS members. NIRS deeply appreciates the continued commitment from its broad membership base. Many members have been with NIRS since the organization launched in 2007, and their steadfast commitment is having a real impact on improving the retirement outlook for all Americans.
Quantifying the Economic Impact of Social Security Benefit Spending
New research from the National Institute on Retirement Security finds that Social Security benefits play a powerful role in supporting the U.S. economy, generating $2.6 trillion in total economic output and supporting more than 12 million American jobs in 2023.
Debunking the Job-Hopping Myth: A Data-Driven Look at Tenure and Turnover Among Younger Workers
Contrary to popular belief that Millennials and Generation Z employees are constantly switching jobs, new research from the National Institute on Retirement Security finds that younger workers today show job retention patterns that closely mirror previous generations at the same stage of their careers.
Evolution and Growth: How Public Pension Plans Have Diversified Their Investments Amid Changing Markets
A report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) and Aon examines the changes public pension plan investing has undergone throughout the twenty-first century.
Social Security’s First 90 Years: A History of Bipartisan and Intergenerational Support
As Social Security approaches its 90th anniversary, a new report from the National Institute on Retirement Security finds that public support remains strong for Social Security, and Americans become more confident in Social Security as they age.
“Today, retirement security is out of reach for many Americans. The data indicate that most Americans, particularly middle‐class workers, are falling far short when it comes to saving enough money for afinancially secure retirement.”
