New research from the Public Retirement Research Lab (PRRL) highlights persistent gender gaps in public-sector DC savings behaviors. Using data from 2.7 million participants and $164 billion in assets, the Fast Fact finds that female participants consistently have lower account balances and contribute less — both in dollars and as a percentage of salary — across every age group.
The analysis also shows notable differences in investment behavior, with female participants allocating more to target-date funds and less directly to equity funds than male participants. However, when equity exposure through target-date funds is considered, overall equity exposure is nearly identical between genders. The findings provide important context for plan sponsors evaluating participant engagement, contribution trends, and the long-term impact of wage disparities on retirement readiness.
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- May 14, 2026 Create Date
- May 14, 2026 Last Updated
