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Pulsafi

Average 401(k) Employer Match (2026)

4.6%
Average employer 401(k) match (% of salary)
Summary

The average 401(k) employer match is 4.6% of employee salary in 2026 — typically structured as '50% match on first 6%' or '100% match on first 3-4%'. About 86% of plans offer some match. The most common formula is dollar-for-dollar up to 6% of salary, providing up to $9,000+ in 'free money' on a $150K salary.

Breakdown

Avg employer match (% salary)4.6%
% of plans offering a match86%
Most common formula100% to 6%
Avg vesting period3-5 years
% requiring immediate vesting44%
Source
Vanguard How America Saves 2025· As of 2026-Q1

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All Pulsafi stats are sourced from primary government data and major financial institutions. Read the full methodology and data-sources page.