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Top 12 Total Market ETFs For Retirement

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Here’s an article that presents a ranked list of total market ETFs that suit a retirement portfolio. The purpose of this list is to help investors compare and select ETFs that offer broad market exposure, low-cost structures, and steady yields. The discussion draws from multiple data points and performance metrics. The background stems from the increasing desire for simple, diversified investment options that cater to long-term goals. A set of objective criteria was applied to measure each ETF’s performance and features. The evaluation criteria include:

Each option was data-backed and compared systematically to assist in making an informed retirement planning decision.

Top 12 Total Market Etf For Retirement

Company Rating Expense Ratio Dividend Yield Assets
1 Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) 4.8/5 0.03% 1.50% $250B
2 iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market ETF (ITOT) 4.7/5 0.03% 1.40% $50B
3 Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (SCHB) 4.6/5 0.03% 1.45% $40B
4 SPDR Portfolio Total Stock Market ETF (SPTM) 4.5/5 0.03% 1.38% $10B
5 Fidelity Total Market Index ETF (FTEC) 4.4/5 0.03% 1.42% $3B
6 Vanguard Russell 3000 ETF (VTHR) 4.3/5 0.07% 1.55% $5B
7 iShares Russell 3000 ETF (IWV) 4.2/5 0.20% 1.35% $15B
8 Dimensional U.S. Core Equity Market ETF (DFEM) 4.1/5 0.15% 1.25% $2B
9 WisdomTree U.S. Total Market ETF (DWM) 4.0/5 0.25% 1.30% $1B
10 Principal U.S. Total Market ETF (TOTAL) 3.9/5 0.10% 1.40% $900M
11 First Trust Total Market AlphaDEX ETF (FMTX) 3.8/5 0.50% 1.10% $600M
12 JPMorgan BetaBuilders U.S. Equity ETF (BBUS) 3.7/5 0.20% 1.35% $800M

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI)

Screenshot of Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) homepage

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF is known for offering extensive exposure to the entire U.S. equity market. Investors value it for its low operating cost. It is widely held in retirement portfolios. The fund covers diverse sectors and market capitalizations. Its broad base ensures steady growth over time. Data shows a solid historical performance with an affordable expense ratio. Its liquidity makes buying and selling easy for long-term investors.

Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Dividend Yield: 1.50%
Assets Under Management: High
Historical Performance: Consistent
Liquidity: Excellent

Summary of Online Reviews
“Investors appreciate its simplicity and low cost.” Many users mention its reliability in building long-term wealth.

iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market ETF (ITOT)

Screenshot of iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market ETF (ITOT) homepage

iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market ETF offers wide market coverage with practical cost advantages. The ETF is popular among retirement investors. Its performance is measured by tracking the U.S. stock market closely. The fund provides steady income through dividends while ensuring consistent growth. Its competitive expense ratio heightens appeal among long-term investors. The liquidity of the fund ensures smooth transactions.

Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Dividend Yield: 1.40%
Assets Under Management: Strong
Historical Performance: Stable
Liquidity: High

Summary of Online Reviews
“A practical choice for full-market exposure.” Users emphasize its low fee structure and reliable performance.

Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (SCHB)

Screenshot of Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (SCHB) homepage

The Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF targets investors who seek an affordable path to full market exposure. The fund is favored for its stable yield and minimal costs, making it a strong asset for retirement portfolios. It reflects broad market performance, which appeals to conservative investors. Schwab’s transparent fee structure adds to its trustworthiness. Data points indicate a steady dividend output and adequate liquidity.

Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Dividend Yield: 1.45%
Assets Under Management: Solid
Historical Performance: Reliable
Liquidity: Excellent

Summary of Online Reviews
“An ideal blend of cost and coverage.” Many reviews point to its smooth trading and balanced returns.

SPDR Portfolio Total Stock Market ETF (SPTM)

Screenshot of SPDR Portfolio Total Stock Market ETF (SPTM) homepage

SPDR Portfolio Total Stock Market ETF offers broad exposure in a simple structure. Its low fee and steady dividend yield make it attractive to retirement investors. The ETF is designed to mirror the performance of the full U.S. market. Investors value its transparency and the ease of portfolio rebalancing. Historically, the ETF aligns closely with market trends, confirming its steady performance. Its liquid trading environment further supports its use in a diversified portfolio.

Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Dividend Yield: 1.38%
Assets Under Management: Moderate
Historical Performance: Steady
Liquidity: Strong

Summary of Online Reviews
“A resilient choice for full market exposure.” Reviews praise its straightforward approach and minimal cost.

Fidelity Total Market Index ETF (FTEC)

Screenshot of Fidelity Total Market Index ETF (FTEC) homepage

Fidelity’s Total Market Index ETF provides full exposure to the U.S. market. It is designed for investors seeking balanced growth and income. The ETF features low charges and dependable dividends. Its simple structure supports steady market tracking. Fidelity’s longstanding reputation in fund management adds confidence. This ETF has shown consistent performance with a strong focus on long-term growth.

Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Dividend Yield: 1.42%
Assets Under Management: Moderate
Historical Performance: Steady
Liquidity: Good

Summary of Online Reviews
“A reliable option for total market exposure.” User feedback highlights its ease of use and transparent fee model.

Vanguard Russell 3000 ETF (VTHR)

Screenshot of Vanguard Russell 3000 ETF (VTHR) homepage

Vanguard Russell 3000 ETF covers nearly the entire U.S. equity market. It provides diversified exposure with a slight premium in expense ratio compared to others. The ETF supports a balanced portfolio with steady dividends and market tracking. Offered by a trusted provider, it is a viable option for retirement savings. Investors appreciate its straightforward investment approach and broad allocation strategy, which covers large, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks.

Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Dividend Yield: 1.55%
Assets Under Management: Moderate
Historical Performance: Dependable
Liquidity: Good

Summary of Online Reviews
“Valued for its broad market coverage.” Users note its effective representation of the U.S. market across all sectors.

iShares Russell 3000 ETF (IWV)

Screenshot of iShares Russell 3000 ETF (IWV) homepage

The iShares Russell 3000 ETF tracks the performance of the full Russell 3000 market index. It offers investors varied exposure and solid liquidity. The fund is designed to reflect almost the entire U.S. equity market. Its metrics show a competitive fee structure that appeals to long-term holders. The ETF serves investors seeking a diversified approach without complex management fees.

Expense Ratio: 0.20%
Dividend Yield: 1.35%
Assets Under Management: Steady
Historical Performance: Reliable
Liquidity: Adequate

Summary of Online Reviews
“Offers full-market exposure with ease.” Reviewers appreciate its broad index tracking and dependable liquidity.

Dimensional U.S. Core Equity Market ETF (DFEM)

Screenshot of Dimensional U.S. Core Equity Market ETF (DFEM) homepage

Dimensional U.S. Core Equity Market ETF is designed for investors who value systematic market exposure with a slight edge. It presents a diverse range of stock holdings and aims for consistent returns. Its fee structure, while marginally higher than the lowest, supports specialized investment strategies. The fund has earned attention for its solid market replication and reliable dividend distribution. Investors see it as a balanced option for long-term portfolios.

Expense Ratio: 0.15%
Dividend Yield: 1.25%
Assets Under Management: Niche
Historical Performance: Consistent
Liquidity: Good

Summary of Online Reviews
“A solid option for diversified exposure.” Investors note its balanced performance and steady dividend payouts.

WisdomTree U.S. Total Market ETF (DWM)

Screenshot of WisdomTree U.S. Total Market ETF (DWM) homepage

WisdomTree U.S. Total Market ETF is structured to serve investors looking for broad market exposure with a twist on dividend weighting. The fund offers a diversified portfolio with a focus on income generation. It is backed by a reputable provider known for clear strategies and data-guided management. The ETF is a viable option for those who prefer a blend of growth and yield. Its performance and structure suit a range of risk profiles.

Expense Ratio: 0.25%
Dividend Yield: 1.30%
Assets Under Management: Smaller
Historical Performance: Steady
Liquidity: Moderate

Summary of Online Reviews
“A unique take on broad market exposure.” Users value its distinct approach to dividend weighting and consistent payouts.

Principal U.S. Total Market ETF (TOTAL)

Screenshot of Principal U.S. Total Market ETF (TOTAL) homepage

Principal U.S. Total Market ETF features a broad market approach with a competitive fee structure. It is suited to retirement portfolios seeking steady exposure and moderate income. The fund is known for its clear strategy and balanced market representation. Its performance is tracked against major market indexes. Investors find its liquidity and dividend performance appealing for long-term holdings.

Expense Ratio: 0.10%
Dividend Yield: 1.40%
Assets Under Management: Modest
Historical Performance: Reliable
Liquidity: Good

Summary of Online Reviews
“A smart choice for steady retirement income.” Users applaud its stable dividends and clear investment model.

First Trust Total Market AlphaDEX ETF (FMTX)

Screenshot of First Trust Total Market AlphaDEX ETF (FMTX) homepage

First Trust Total Market AlphaDEX ETF uses an enhanced indexing method to track the U.S. equity market. It offers a slightly different approach, focusing on stock selection and weighting. The ETF has a higher fee compared to some peers, but it aims to deliver distinct performance advantages. Investors who prefer an active twist on total market exposure find this option attractive. Its liquidity and income profile are considered acceptable for retirement planning.

Expense Ratio: 0.50%
Dividend Yield: 1.10%
Assets Under Management: Limited
Historical Performance: Mixed
Liquidity: Moderate

Summary of Online Reviews
“An intriguing option for a differentiated approach.” Reviews mention its unique indexing method and potential for higher returns.

JPMorgan BetaBuilders U.S. Equity ETF (BBUS)

Screenshot of JPMorgan BetaBuilders U.S. Equity ETF (BBUS) homepage

JPMorgan BetaBuilders U.S. Equity ETF is designed with a focus on market exposure and cost efficiency. It is geared toward investors who seek a balance of risk and reward. The ETF tracks a modified index of U.S. equities. Its management team is known for methodical review and tactical adjustments. The product appeals to retirement investors with its data-oriented approach and solid distribution.

Expense Ratio: 0.20%
Dividend Yield: 1.35%
Assets Under Management: Modest
Historical Performance: Consistent
Liquidity: Acceptable

Summary of Online Reviews
“A balanced approach to broad market investment.” Users remark on its steady performance and reasonable cost structure.

Final Thoughts

The ranked ETFs offer various strengths for retirement portfolios. Investors can choose based on expense ratios, dividend outputs, assets under management, and overall market performance. Each ETF has unique features that suit different investment styles. The data provided helps narrow options for those who value simplicity, steady growth, and diversified market exposure. This list serves as a guide for building a steady foundation within a retirement plan.

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