According to trade association Pensions UK, formerly the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA), a basic retirement costs a single person £13,400 per year, while a couple can manage on £21,600. A moderate retirement costs £31,700 for a single person, and £43,900 for a couple, and includes a little more flexibility. A comfortable retirement costs £43,900 per year for a single person, and £60,600 for a couple. Those hoping for a moderate retirement will need to supplement their state pension with private pension income. Based on current rates, that means you should make your money back within three years of receiving your state pension.