What Percentage of Americans Have a Net Worth of $500,000?
Roughly 13% to 15% of U.S. households have a net worth at or above $500,000, according to the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances. This threshold includes primary home equity, retirement accounts, and other assets minus liabilities.
How Net Worth Is Measured
Net worth is calculated by subtracting total debts from total assets. Assets typically include bank accounts, investment portfolios, retirement savings, and home equity. Liabilities include mortgages, auto loans, credit card balances, and student loans.
Who Is More Likely to Reach $500,000 in Net Worth?
Higher net worth is more common among older households, college-educated adults, and those with higher incomes. Homeownership, consistent saving, and long-term investing also increase the likelihood of crossing the $500,000 threshold.
For broader wealth benchmarks, see the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances.
