In the heart of Oakland County lies the dynamic city of Southfield, Michigan, where suburban serenity meets urban flair. Southfield is a hub for innovation and community engagement, making it an exciting place to call home. With a robust economy, it hosts numerous thriving businesses and offers a range of employment opportunities, providing residents with both stability and career growth.
Diversity enriches the cultural tapestry of Southfield, contributing to its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Commendable educational institutions, including Lawrence Technological
University, showcase the city’s commitment to academic excellence, nurturing talents that will power the future. Southfield is a treasure trove for families and individuals seeking a welcoming environment to learn and grow.
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with over 775 acres of parkland, featuring scenic trails and recreational facilities perfect for all ages. The city's extensive
Discover the Vibrant Lifestyle
4 | HelloSouthfield, Michigan • Winter Issue
Hello Southfield, Michigan • Winter Issue |5
Discover the Vibrant Lifestyle
public spaces offer a breath of fresh air, encouraging an active lifestyle. Shopping aficionados will relish the retail experiences at some of Michigan's premier shopping destinations, located right within city limits.
Culinary delights from
around the world await those who wish to embark on a gastronomic adventure. Whether savoring international cuisines or cheering on local sports, Southfield promises a lively social...
Discover the Vibrant Lifestyle of Southfield, Michigan
In the heart of Oakland County lies the dynamic city of Southfield, Michigan, where suburban serenity meets urban flair. Southfield is a hub for innovation and community engagement, making it an exciting place to call home. With a robust economy, it hosts numerous thriving businesses and offers a range of employment opportunities, providing residents with both stability and career growth.
Diversity enriches the cultural tapestry of Southfield, contributing to its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Commendable educational institutions, including Lawrence Technological University, showcase the city’s commitment to academic excellence, nurturing talents that will power the future. Southfield is a treasure trove for families and individuals seeking a welcoming environment to learn and grow.
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with over 775 acres of parkland, featuring scenic trails and recreational facilities perfect for all ages. The city's extensive public spaces offer a breath of fresh air, encouraging an active lifestyle. Shopping aficionados will relish the retail experiences at some of Michigan's premier shopping destinations, located right within city limits.
Culinary delights from around the world await those who wish to embark on a gastronomic adventure. Whether savoring international cuisines or cheering on local sports, Southfield promises a lively social scene. This city is not just a place to live, but a community that celebrates its rich heritage, innovation, and the warm connections people make.
FEATURED STORY
Estimating Retirement Savings: What’s the Right Number for You?
by Donna Wallace
Many people wonder how much money they’ll need to retire comfortably, but there is no single number that works for everyone. The right amount depends on how you plan to live after you stop working, where you’ll live, and how long your retirement may last. Thinking about retirement is less about guessing and more about understanding your lifestyle, spending habits, and long-term goals.A good place to start is by estimating your monthly expenses in retirement. This includes everything from housing, food, and utilities to health care, travel, and personal spending. Many
6 | HelloSouthfield, Michigan • Winter Issue
Donna Wallace
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Wallace Financial helps clients protect their retirement assets by offering clear guidance and personalized strategies. The firm focuses on balance, taking time to understand each client’s goals and explain the long term impact of their choices. Serving the greater Detroit area, Wallace Financial provides retirement income planning, annuities, life insurance, asset protection, tax strategies, and long term care planning.
experts suggest planning for 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income to maintain a similar standard of living. For instance, if you currently earn $80,000 per year, you might aim for $56,000 to $64,000 per year in retirement.This guideline provides a helpful starting point, but it doesn’t fit every situation. Some retirees find that their spending goes down once they no longer commute, dine out for work, or support children. Others discover that they spend more, especially in the early years, when travel and leisure activities are at their peak. The key is to make realistic estimates based on your
Hello Southfield, Michigan • Winter Issue |7
Estimating Retirement Savings: What’s the Right Number for You?
Many people wonder how much money they’ll need to retire comfortably, but there is no single number that works for everyone. The right amount depends on how you plan to live after you stop working, where you’ll live, and how long your retirement may last. Thinking about retirement is less about guessing and more about understanding your lifestyle, spending habits, and long-term goals.
A good place to start is by estimating your monthly expenses in retirement. This includes everything from housing, food, and utilities to health care, travel, and personal spending. Many experts suggest planning for 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income to maintain a similar standard of living. For instance, if you currently earn $80,000 per year, you might aim for $56,000 to $64,000 per year in retirement.
This guideline provides a helpful starting point, but it doesn’t fit every situation. Some retirees find that their spending goes down once they no longer commute, dine out for work, or support children. Others discover that they spend more, especially in the early years, when travel and leisure activities are at their peak. The key is to make realistic estimates based on your personal goals, not on averages or general rules.
Your living arrangements will also affect how much you need. If your home is paid off, your monthly costs may be lower. But if you plan to move, downsize, or rent in a different city, those choices can change your budget considerably. Taxes, property costs, and insurance rates vary widely by state, which makes location an important part of your financial plan.
Health care is another major factor. Even with Medicare, you will likely pay premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Planning for potential long-term care costs can also protect your savings from unexpected expenses later in life. Many retirees find it helpful to maintain a health savings account or other dedicated fund for medical needs.
When estimating your savings goal, consider how long your retirement might last. People are living longer, and it’s common to plan for at least 25 to 30 years of retirement income. A conservative approach assumes that your savings need to last longer than you expect. This can prevent financial strain later in life if your expenses rise or market conditions change.
Your investment strategy will influence how much you need to save. If your portfolio includes a mix of stocks, bonds, and cash, you’ll want to review your risk tolerance as you approach retirement. A balanced approach can help protect your income from inflation while reducing the chance of significant losses. Some people choose to work part-time in retirement to supplement their savings or delay drawing Social Security benefits, which can increase future benefits.
The most important part of retirement planning is to start early and review your plan regularly as your goals and lifestyle evolve. Income needs change over time, and what feels adequate in your 50s may not feel the same at 70. Reassessing your savings every few years helps keep your plan realistic and flexible.
For many, working with a financial planner helps clarify how much money is enough. A professional can model different retirement scenarios, estimate future income from Social Security or pensions, and adjust for inflation. While no one can predict every expense, informed planning can provide peace of mind and financial security.
In the end, there is no magic number that guarantees a comfortable retirement. What matters most is that your savings and investments align with your personal definition of comfort and independence. By taking the time to understand your spending, health needs, and long-term goals, you can create a plan that supports the lifestyle you want for the years ahead.
The mostimportant part ofretirement planningis to startearly and review yourplan regularly asyour goals and lifestyleevolve.
personal goals, not on averages or general rules.Your living arrangements will also affect how much you need. If your home is paid off, your monthly costs may be lower. But if you plan to move, downsize, or rent in a different city, those choices can change your budget considerably. Taxes, property costs, and insurance rates vary widely by state, which makes location an important part of your financial plan.Health care is another major factor. Even with Medicare, you will...
