A savings account is the safest place to put money. It's also good for money that you expect to spend within a year or so.
But the rate of return is nothing like investing for the long-term in a 401(k). While such retirement accounts are subject to the whims of the market, going up and down in value, over the long-term they win big.
Simple example on $1,000: After a year, it may earn $1.20 in a savings account. During a good stock market year, the same $1,000 could earn $140.
