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Seniors' Wealth Soars: Richest Cohort Ever
10 Oct
Summary
- Older adults' median net worth surged 37% to $504,900.
- Younger Americans under 35 saw net worth drop 23%.
- Bill delinquency reached its highest point since 2010.
As of late 2026, the oldest age group in the U.S. has achieved unprecedented wealth. Households headed by individuals aged 75 and older saw their median net worth increase by 37% between 2022 and 2025, reaching $504,900 in inflation-adjusted terms. This rise positions them as the wealthiest demographic in recent Federal Reserve surveys.
Conversely, younger Americans are experiencing financial decline. The median net worth for households under 35 fell by 23% to $33,000 during the same period. This widening wealth gap is further illustrated by the fact that more Americans have fallen behind on their bills than at any point since 2010.
The Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, conducted every three years, revealed significant financial stratification. Wealthier individuals and homeowners saw their fortunes grow, while those without high school diplomas experienced the steepest drop in net worth on record, decreasing by 55% to $18,000.
