Forget Rocking Chairs: Retirees Are Buying Porsches and Airplanes, According to Reddit

What’s the first thing you'd buy after your final day at work? For a new generation of retirees, the answer isn't a rocking chair—it's a Porsche, a house in Spain, or even a private airplane. A recent thread on Reddit, sparked by a curious 71-year-old, has gone viral for revealing the wild and wonderful ways people are treating themselves after decades of hard work.

From Spanish Villas to Private Jets

The splurges shared by retirees are nothing short of spectacular. One user reported selling everything in the United States to buy a house and move permanently to Spain. Another, now 88, still owns the Porsche 911 they bought at 75. Perhaps the most astonishing gift was from a retired aircraft mechanic who, after finally getting a pilot's license, bought his own airplane. Other grand gestures included a 128-day cruise around the world and, for one person, simply buying a brand-new Ford F-150 after 25 years without a new vehicle.

Buying Experiences, Time, and Peace of Mind

But it's not all about extravagant toys. Many retirees are investing in something more valuable: time and peace. A popular response came from a couple who hired professionals to take over their most hated chores—house cleaning, snow removal, and landscaping—to free up their time. A 53-year-old woman bought herself a set of tools to learn DIY projects, finding immense satisfaction in learning a new skill. Others invested in quality-of-life upgrades, like original art to adorn their walls, a high-end mattress for a perfect night's sleep, or an e-bike to explore their local area in a new way.

A Reward Well-Earned

This trend highlights a significant shift in how we view retirement—not as an end, but as a new beginning. After decades of saving and delaying gratification, there's a growing sentiment that retirees have earned the right to indulge. Psychologists note that this kind of self-reward can boost well-being and relieve stress. Speaking to Bored Panda, retired professor Liana Hancu advised, "Treat yourself occasionally during your career too—don’t wait for 'someday.' Life’s meant to be enjoyed along the way."