Reaching the mid-50s is a financial milestone for most people. Careers are largely established, retirement is within sight and most major life expenses are already on the balance sheet. But not everyone knows what “class” they fit into or how their net worth compares with other people their age.
The most recent Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances shows the median net worth for Americans aged 45 to 54 is $246,700. That figure reflects the financial position of a typical household in this age range, but upper-middle class — by definition — sits far above the median. Here’s the net worth needed to be considered upper-middle class at age 54.
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Understanding Upper-Middle Class
According to the Money Guy Show, upper-middle class individuals fall in the 50th to 75th percentile of people and have net worths ranging from a minimum of $209,000 to a maximum of $714,000.
Those climbing into this group often move from focusing on basic financial stability to planning for long-term security, with an eye toward financial independence by optimizing investments.
It’s worth noting that there’s no definitive guideline for defining the classes and Melanie Musson, finance expert at Quote.com, sets a higher benchmark for upper-middle class.
“If you have a net worth of approximately $2 million at age 54, you can be considered upper-middle class,” she said.
This definitely represents people at the upper end of the spectrum, far above the median and even above the 50th to 75th percentile range. It reflects decades of disciplined saving, investing and asset growth.
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How Wealth Typically Adds Up
Home Equity
Property is usually the largest driver of wealth. Musson noted that someone in the upper-middle-class bracket at this stage would probably own a home that’s either paid off or at least built up plenty of equity, worth close to $1 million.
Retirement Savings
Musson also explained that the average upper-middle class 54-year-old should have retirement savings approaching $1 million, made up of 401(k) plans, IRAs and taxable investment accounts. While $1 million doesn’t guarantee a luxury retirement, it gives a solid footing with time still available to add more.
“If you expect to live an upper-class lifestyle in retirement, you’ll need far over $1 million when you retire,” Musson said, “but if you have 10 more years to contribute, you’re on the right track.”
Other Assets
Cars may depreciate but they still contribute to net worth, with the remainder spread across cash reserves and emergency funds, businesses and other assets.
A Realistic Look at Financial Standing
A net worth of up to $2 million isn’t a target for everyone. It represents the high end of upper-middle class in the U.S., somewhere that only a relatively small proportion of Americans will fit into. However, understanding these benchmarks can help put financial security in perspective, as well as showing how people’s priorities shift at different stages of life.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Here’s the Net Worth Considered To Be Upper-Middle Class at 54
