Social Security's 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) came in at just 2.5%-- the lowest COLA since 2021. This is no surprise to those who have watched inflation steadily cool throughout the year. But it doesn't change the reality that many seniors will find themselves shouldering more of the financial burden in 2025.

A recent survey from the Motley Fool shows 50% of retirees have considered going back to work to make ends meet.

But while you may be disappointed in your 2025 Social Security COLA, a 2.5% raise actually isn't so bad. Here's why. Image source: . You may not be thrilled to learn that your monthly Social Security checks are only getting a 2.