by HRHQ Editorial Team
A recent nationwide survey by financial advisory network Ask Acorn has uncovered a stark gender divide in Ireland’s retirement preparedness. The study found that 34% of Irish women have no retirement savings, compared to 25% of men. This disparity highlights a growing concern over the financial security of women in later life.
The average pension pot for Irish women stands at €60,562, a staggering 40% less than the male average of €102,017. Among those aged 55 and older—nearing or already in retirement—the gap widens further: women have saved an average of €82,674, while men have amassed €144,716, leaving a shortfall of over €62,000.
This financial imbalance is especially troubling given that Irish women typically live longer than men, meaning their retirement funds must stretch further. Despite increased female participation in the workforce, the survey suggests that systemic issues—such as lower lifetime earnings, career breaks, and part-time work—continue to hinder women’s ability to save adequately.
Only 15% of women reported having pension pots over €100,000, compared to 33% of men, and more than half of women with savings have less than €30,000 set aside.
Keith Butler, CEO of Ask Acorn, called the findings a “ticking time bomb,” urging policymakers to address the gender pension gap through reforms like automatic enrolment and targeted financial education.
As Ireland faces an aging population, closing this gap is not just a matter of equality—it’s a matter of economic urgency.
