France sees rise in retirees returning to work

In France, there is a growing trend of retirees returning to or staying in the workforce. Data from Drees indicates that in 2023, 606,000 individuals aged 55 and older were simultaneously receiving a pension and earned income, often through part-time work. This activity is driven by various factors, including the desire to maintain social ties, utilize expertise, or supplement income to cover housing, energy, and healthcare costs.

While the poverty rate among retirees fell to 10.4% in 2024—matching the rate of the active population—vulnerabilities remain, particularly for those living alone. The median living standard for retirees rose by 3.5% in constant euros due to pension revaluations.

Additionally, the use of “progressive retirement” has nearly doubled within a year, rising from 34,798 to 66,816 beneficiaries between June 2025 and June 2026, according to CNAV. This mechanism allows individuals to work part-time (between 40% and 80%) while receiving a portion of their pension. The increase is attributed to the scheme being opened to more sectors, such as civil servants and liberal professionals, and the fact that employers can no longer oppose such requests. Women utilize this system more frequently than men, likely to improve their total pension amounts following non-linear career paths.