Share of Net Worth Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks share of net worth held by the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles over time.
Latest Value
30.30
Year-over-Year Change
0.66%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Share of Net Worth Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles' measures the distribution of household wealth in the United States. This metric is important for economists and policymakers to understand economic inequality and the concentration of wealth.
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 percentage of total U.S. household net worth held by households in the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles. It provides insight into the middle class and upper-middle class wealth distribution, complementing measures of wealth at the top and bottom.
Methodology
The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
This wealth distribution metric is relevant for policymakers and analysts studying economic mobility, inequality, and the state of the middle class.
Key Facts
- The 50th to 90th wealth percentiles held 46.7% of total U.S. household net worth in 2019.
- Wealth inequality has increased, with the top 10% holding 76.9% of net worth in 2019.
- Middle-class wealth remains below pre-Great Recession levels.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This data series tracks the share of total U.S. household net worth held by households in the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles, providing insight into middle-class wealth distribution.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is important for understanding economic inequality, the state of the middle class, and wealth mobility in the United States.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this wealth distribution data to study topics like economic mobility, inequality, and the financial health of the middle class.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is updated periodically by the Federal Reserve, usually with a lag of several months.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Net Worth Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBSN40188), retrieved from FRED.