What Is the Top 10 Percent
The top 10 percent refers to households ranked by net worth, which is total assets minus liabilities. In the United States, this group holds a large share of overall wealth. Net worth includes financial assets, real estate, and business ownership, minus debts such as mortgages and loans.
Average Net Worth Figures
According to the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances, the average net worth of the top 10 percent of U.S. households is several million dollars, far above the national median. The Federal Reserve publishes detailed tables breaking down wealth by percentile, showing that the top tier owns a disproportionate share of stocks, business equity, and real estate.
Why the Top 10 Percent Hold More Wealth
Higher incomes allow for greater savings and investment, compounding over time. Access to financial advice, tax-advantaged accounts, and business opportunities also helps. Homeownership rates and property values in high-cost areas further increase net worth for many households in the top 10 percent.
How the Data Is Measured
Net worth data comes from household surveys and regulatory filings. Researchers use percentiles to compare groups, and the Federal Reserve updates these figures every few years. For the latest tables and methodology, see the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances at https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/scf.htm.
