How to calculate net worth
Example: $480,000 of assets ($15,000 cash, $85,000 in retirement accounts, $10,000 of other investments, a $350,000 home and a $20,000 car) minus $274,000 of debts gives a net worth of $206,000, above the $135,600 median for ages 35 to 44.
Median net worth by age
| Age of family head | Median net worth |
|---|---|
| Under 35 | $39,000 |
| 35–44 | $135,600 |
| 45–54 | $247,200 |
| 55–64 | $364,500 |
| 65–74 | $409,900 |
| 75 and older | $335,600 |
| All families | $192,900 |
Source: Federal Reserve, 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, the most recent survey. The median is the middle family; averages are far higher because a few very wealthy households pull them up.
Use current market values for assets, not what you paid, and the payoff balance for debts. Track it once or twice a year; the trend matters more than the number. Grow it with the investment calculator or pay debts down with the debt payoff calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good net worth for my age?
A common benchmark is the median for your age group: $39,000 under 35, $135,600 for ages 35 to 44, $247,200 for 45 to 54 and $364,500 for 55 to 64 in the Federal Reserve's latest survey.
Should I include my home in my net worth?
Yes, at a realistic market value, with the mortgage counted as a debt. Liquid net worth, which leaves the home out, shows what you could actually draw on.
Can net worth be negative?
Yes, when debts exceed assets, which is common early in a career with student loans. Paying down debt and saving steadily turns it positive.
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