TIAA vs. Fidelity in Your 30s

If you are like many University employees, you picked TIAA or Fidelity on your first day and have not thought much about it since. The choice between these providers, and how you allocate within them, can influence your long-term results. This overview will help you understand the strengths of each so you can make informed adjustments in your 30s. 

The Basics of Each Provider:

Fidelity 

• Robust lineup with more than 190 investment funds to choose from 

• Many low-cost index options which support long-term compounding 

• Good fit if you want flexibility and a wide variety of choices within a single platform 

  
  

TIAA 

• Fewer funds, with unique options such as TIAA Traditional and the TIAA Real Estate Account 

• Strong annuity features, although some contracts include limited liquidity or withdrawal rules 

• Useful if you want stable, predictable returns for part of your portfolio

What Matters Most in Your 30s: 

During your 30s, most investors benefit from a growth-oriented approach because time is on your side. That longer time horizon allows you to lean into stock exposure for higher growth potential. For many, that could mean a portfolio fully allocated to stocks. If you prefer a smoother ride, you might keep a small allocation to bonds to reduce volatility while still targeting long-term growth. 

The right approach depends on your comfort with market swings, your timeline, and how hands-on you want to be. 

How to Compare Options Inside Each Provider:

• Cost: Check expense ratios. Lower costs help more of your return stay invested. 

• Diversification: Look for broad U.S. stock, international stock, and core bond exposure. 

• Simplicity: A target date fund can work well if you prefer a set-it-and-monitor approach. 

• Liquidity: Understand any restrictions before choosing annuity-style options at TIAA. 

• Fit: Match your selection to your time horizon and a risk level you can live with through downturns. 

  
  

Practical Steps for Your 30s: 

• Check your default investments. Are you in a target date fund, and is the target year appropriate? 

• Review your provider mix. Are you using TIAA and Fidelity intentionally, or by habit? 

• Confirm costs and alignment. Do your current funds match your goals, and are you paying more than you need 

• Set a review rhythm. Revisit your allocation at least once a year to stay on track. 

• 
  

The Bottom Line:

Both TIAA and Fidelity can support a solid plan in your 30s. Fidelity often offers robust, low-cost building blocks for growth. TIAA offers distinctive options that can add stability. The best choice is the one that fits your timeline, your comfort with risk, and your need for flexibility. 

If you would like a second set of eyes on your current setup, our team is always happy to help you think it through in plain English.