How much do you need to make in order to really feel like you’re in a good spot in life? The average American says “financial independence” means making upwards of $94,000 per year, and 60 percent feel optimistic they can reach this milestone.

In a recent poll of 2,000 adults, spenders and savers say financial freedom is synonymous with resilience and independence: not needing money from family and friends (47%), reaching a certain net worth (44%), and contributing to a 401(k) (42%). The new study by financial services company Empower, conducted by OnePoll, also reveals that more than two in five define “making it” as reaching financial independence (44%). READ MORE