Household Count in the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks household count in the 90th to 99th wealth percentiles over time.
Latest Value
12071636.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.58%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The Household Count in the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles measures the number of U.S. households within the top 10% of the wealth distribution. This metric is a key indicator of economic inequality and the concentration of wealth among the most affluent households.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
This Federal Reserve data series tracks the total number of households with wealth levels between the 90th and 99th percentiles in the United States. It provides insights into the size and composition of the upper-middle class and wealthy segments of the population, which is useful for analyzing trends in inequality, consumption, and economic policymaking.
Methodology
The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, a comprehensive household finance survey conducted every three years.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts often use this metric to gauge the breadth of economic prosperity and the degree of wealth concentration at the top of the income distribution.
Key Facts
- The top 10% of U.S. households hold over 76% of total household wealth.
- Wealth inequality has risen significantly in the U.S. over the past several decades.
- The household count in the 90th-99th wealth percentiles has grown by over 20% since the early 2000s.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Household Count in the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles measures the number of U.S. households with wealth levels between the 90th and 99th percentiles of the overall wealth distribution.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides important insights into the concentration of wealth at the top of the income distribution, which is a key indicator of economic inequality and can inform policy discussions around taxation, social programs, and inclusive growth.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, a comprehensive household finance survey conducted every three years.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to gauge the breadth of economic prosperity and the degree of wealth concentration at the top of the income distribution, which can inform decisions around taxation, social programs, and policies aimed at reducing inequality.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published by the Federal Reserve on a triennial basis, with the most recent release reflecting the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances. There may be a 1-2 year delay in the availability of the latest data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Household Count in the 90th to 99th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBLN09303), retrieved from FRED.