Average and Median Net Worth by Age: How Do You Compare?

What is the average net worth?

According to the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances, the average net worth of U.S. households is $1.23 million and the median net worth is $216,100

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Federal Reserve Board. Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) Net worth by all families. Accessed Oct 19, 2026. View all sources . The median is often a more accurate indicator of what a typical household has, because a few very rich households drive up the average.

» MORE: See the average retirement savings by age

What is net worth?

Net worth is the current value of a person's assets minus the sum of their liabilities.

Net worth = Assets - Liabilities

To estimate your net worth, add together the value of your assets (such as your home and cars if you own them, as well as money in savings, checking or investment and retirement accounts), and subtract your liabilities (such as a mortgage, student loans, car loans or credit card debt).

» MORE: Use our net worth calculator

Average and median net worth by age

Net worth usually grows as a person ages and as savings, investments and assets add up over time. It may dip when people tap into retirement savings, incur more medical expenses or take on the costs of assisted living.

Average net worth by age

Median net worth by age

4 ways to increase your net worth

Here are a few basic steps to building your net worth.

1. Track your spending

“Figuring out where your money is actually going is the first step,” says Chelsea Ransom-Cooper, a certified financial planner and chief financial planning officer at Zenith Wealth Partners. “It doesn't matter how much you make; if your money isn't going to the right places, you can blow it.”

If you don't already have a budget, start tracking how much money comes in and how much goes out, even if you have a high income.

Most budget frameworks will tell you to set aside a certain amount for needs, wants and savings/debt payoff.

Because net worth is what you own minus what you owe, cut down on what you owe. NerdWallet recommends paying down debts with the highest interest rates first. Another option you may consider is debt consolidation: rolling multiple debts into one payment, which can simplify payments and lower your rate but can come with fees and longer terms.

2. Grow your money

“Immediately when that paycheck comes in, set up auto payments for all the things that are going to have a positive impact on your net worth,” Ransom-Cooper says. Any level of saving can add up, whether it’s stashing $200 or $20 per month.

“You’ll surprise yourself on how quickly you can build wealth,” Ransom-Cooper says.

If you have access to a 401(k) with an employer match, consider contributing at least enough of your paycheck to get the match. Your money, plus the match, have the potential to grow as you continue to work. Investments can lose value, though, and be sure to check your plan's vesting schedule to see when the match is fully yours.

» Do a comparison: See the average 401(k) balance by age

3. Increase your income

Sometimes it might feel like you don’t have enough left over to save and/or invest. If you want to get more cash flow, we have a list of money-making ideas, including different side hustles.

4. Be patient

Factors beyond your control can affect your net worth, such as stock market swings and sudden changes in income. If your finances take a hit, you may need to adjust your budget or savings plan to get your finances back on track.

The tables above show that net worth can change with time. Saving consistently can help your money grow through compounding, which means earning returns on your earlier returns. Investment returns aren't guaranteed, though; investment values can go down or up.