Americans ages 55-64 are nearing their peak earning and saving years, and data from the Federal Reserve’s latest Survey of Consumer Finances shows they are positioned near the top of the wealth curve heading into retirement, with a median net worth of $364,270.
At this stage,wealth is often tied up in home equity and retirement savings,even as many households continue to carry debt. Nearly 78% of Americans ages 55-64 own a home, but only about 57% have a retirement account, leaving many reliant on housing-related wealth.
median net worth reflects the midpoint – half of households have more and half have less – and is used rather of the mean (average) as it’s less skewed by extremely high values.
What the Finances of the Average Homeowner Look Like
Table of Contents
Owning a home is a big part of the American Dream, but what do the finances of typical homeowners really look like? Here’s a breakdown of their income, assets, and debts.
Income
-
Median household income: $85,000
-
Income from wages: About 80% of homeowner income comes from wages, with a median of $75,000.
-
Investment income: Around 25% receive income from investments,averaging $10,000.
-
Retirement income: Roughly 15% have retirement income, with a median of $20,000.
Assets
-
Home value: The median home is worth $330,000.
-
Home equity: Homeowners have a median of $180,000 in equity.
-
Retirement savings: About 60% have retirement savings, with a median balance of $65,000.
-
Savings and checking accounts: Roughly 55% have savings or checking accounts, holding a median of $10,000.
-
additional residential real estate: About 19% own a second property, such as a vacation home, with a median value of $250,000.
Liabilities
-
Total debt: Roughly 77% carry some form of debt,with a median balance of $90,000.
-
Mortgage or home-equity loan: About 47% owe on a home, with a median balance of $130,000.
-
Vehicle loans: Just over a third (34%) have an auto loan,with a median balance of $17,000.
Keep reading