In 2017, Soc Sec was ~80% of my parent's monthly income ($2,155). They each had their own work history, although Dad was the primary wage earner. Their combined social security checks, minus their Medicare premiums, were enough for them to live on. Dad also had a very modest pension, which provided a small cushion. Social Security provided them with a secure, if frugal retirement for 30 years. They barely touched their modest savings during that time. Dad retired at 65.