College Savings or Retirement First? How to Decide in 2026

Should you save for your child’s college or your own retirement first? It’s one of the most common questions we hear from families trying to balance competing financial goals. Our analysis at Greenbush Financial Group shows that in most cases, prioritizing retirement creates greater long-term security—while still leaving room to build meaningful college savings over time. This guide explains why the order matters, how 529 plans fit in, and how to create a balanced strategy that protects both your future and your child’s opportunities.