Fidelity vs Nationwide 401(k) Comparison
Compare Fidelity Investments (#1, 9.5/10) and Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Fidelity | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.5/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Rank | #1 | #13 |
| AUM | $4.5 trillion | $250 billion |
| Participants | 43 million | 3.5 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 23,000+ | 30,000+ |
| Founded | 1946 | 1926 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Fidelity | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.9/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.9/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.8/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.7/5 | 3.4/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Fidelity | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $0 - varies by plan | $800 - $3,500/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.00% - 0.75% | 0.30% - 1.3% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for stocks/ETFs | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.35% - 1.0% | 0.45% - 0.95% |
Fidelity Strengths
- Zero expense ratio index funds (FZROX, FZILX)
- Industry-leading mobile app and online platform
- 24/7 customer service with dedicated retirement specialists
- Extensive investment options including BrokerageLink
Nationwide Strengths
- Strong in 403(b) and 457 plans
- Guaranteed lifetime income options
- Good public sector solutions
- Stable value fund options
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Fidelity if you want:
- Large employers
- Cost-conscious investors
- Self-directed investors
- Solo 401(k) seekers
Choose Nationwide if you want:
- Public sector employees
- Teachers and nonprofits
- Guaranteed income seekers
Our Verdict: Fidelity vs Nationwide
Fidelity Investments wins this comparison with a score of 9.5/10 vs 7.3/10. Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), making it the stronger choice for most investors in this matchup. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, employer plan availability, and investment preferences.
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Fidelity vs Nationwide: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Fidelity Investments and Nationwide for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Fidelity offers largest provider while Nationwide is known for public sector. In terms of fees, Fidelity charges 0.00% - 0.75% expense ratios compared to Nationwide's 0.30% - 1.3%. Fidelity manages $4.5 trillion in assets and serves 43 million participants, while Nationwide has $250 billion AUM and 3.5 million participants.
Key Differences: Fidelity vs Nationwide
When comparing Fidelity and Nationwide, consider their core strengths: Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), while Nationwide stands out for strong in 403(b) and 457 plans. Both providers offer comprehensive investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Fidelity's customer service rating is 4.8/5 compared to Nationwide's 4.0/5. For mobile experience, Fidelity scores 4.7/5 while Nationwide scores 3.4/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Fidelity if you prioritize large employers. Choose Nationwide if you're looking for public sector employees. Your decision should also consider your employer's plan availability, fee sensitivity, desired investment options, and customer service expectations. For detailed reviews, visit our individual Fidelity and Nationwide provider pages.