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US Household Debt Hits Record $18.59 Trillion
29 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Total US household debt reached a record $18.59 trillion in Q3 2025.
- Mortgages constitute the largest portion of debt at $13.07 trillion.
- Student loan and credit card delinquencies signal economic stress.
The total debt held by American households has climbed to an unprecedented $18.59 trillion in the third quarter of 2025, marking a substantial increase. Mortgages account for the predominant share of this debt, exceeding $13 trillion. While mortgage delinquency rates are stable, other debt categories are showing concerning trends.
Increases in student loan and credit card debt are particularly worrying indicators. The delinquency rate for student loans has risen, and while some of this is due to recent reporting of previously paused federal payments, it signals ongoing struggles. This rise, coupled with growing credit card balances, points to significant financial strain.
The current economic landscape, characterized by a 'K-shaped economy,' is exacerbated by these debt trends. Younger and lower-income individuals appear to be bearing the brunt of these financial pressures, as evidenced by higher delinquency rates in key debt categories.
