Share of Mortgages Held by the Top 1% (99th to 100th Wealth Percentiles)

WFRBST01121 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

47.00

Year-over-Year Change

6.33%

Date Range

7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the share of mortgage debt held by the wealthiest 1% of U.S. households. It provides insights into wealth inequality and the distribution of mortgage financing.

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

The Share of Mortgages Held by the Top 1% tracks the percentage of total mortgage debt owed by households in the 99th to 100th wealth percentiles. This metric offers valuable context on the concentration of mortgage financing and its relationship to wealth inequality.

Methodology

The data is calculated based on the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances.

Historical Context

This trend is relevant for policymakers and economists analyzing the dynamics of housing finance and wealth distribution.

Key Facts

  • The top 1% of U.S. households held over 25% of total mortgage debt as of 2019.
  • Mortgage debt held by the top 1% has increased from under 20% in the 1990s.
  • The concentration of mortgage financing among the wealthiest Americans has risen alongside growing wealth inequality.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the share of total mortgage debt held by the wealthiest 1% of U.S. households, providing insights into the distribution of housing finance.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric is important for understanding wealth inequality and the dynamics of mortgage financing in the U.S. economy.

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: This trend is relevant for policymakers and economists analyzing housing finance and wealth distribution trends.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is updated periodically based on the Federal Reserve's survey schedule.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Mortgages Held by the Top 1% (99th to 100th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBST01121), retrieved from FRED.