By the time you're in your 60s, you've likely accrued assets such as a 401(k), house, car, and other possessions. At the same time, you've probably built up some liabilities, such as credit card debt or a mortgage.
The total value of the assets you own minus the total amount of your debts is your net worth — and the higher your net worth, the better the odds that you'll be able to retire early.
But what is the average net worth of people your age? Keep reading to find out, and to learn about steps you can take to increase your net worth during this critical decade of your life.
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What is the average net worth of people in their 60s?
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The average net worth of a person in their 60s is $1,689,144, and the median net worth is $439,050, according to data collected by financial services company Empower,
An "average" is calculated by adding up the total value of everything in a given set and then dividing that number by the amount of items included in the set.
Since the average includes extreme highs and lows, it isn't a great representation of how effectively the average person in their 60s has been able to build wealth.
The "median" presents a more accurate picture of how much many people have saved since it represents the halfway point between the highest and lowest numbers in a set.
In this case, 50% of people in their 60s have a net worth of less than $439,050 while 50% have a higher net worth than $439,050.
No matter how close or far you are from the median (or average), remember that your precise age probably impacts your net worth. Naturally, if you're 61 or 62, you've had less time to accumulate assets than someone on the verge of turning 70.
How do you compare?
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While your net worth isn't the only number that determines whether you can retire or not, it's fair to say that the higher your net worth, the better prepared you are to retire.
Many Americans likely will conclude that the median net worth of $439,050 isn't necessarily high enough to support a comfortable retirement — especially since that number represents total assets, not just the number of dollars in your retirement savings account.
If you're worried about building your net worth, take steps now to shore up savings and grow your wealth. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind.
Consider picking up a part-time job or side hustle
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Adding an extra source of income is one of the fastest ways to increase your savings.
It can also free you to make more than the minimum payments on high-interest debts, which will save you money in the long run.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 46% before fees, or 25% including our fees, over 12 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating.</p>
How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.
Pay off your debts
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The quicker you can pay off your debts, the less money you'll need to spend on expensive interest payments.
Carrying debt into retirement is a good way to drain your savings. So, prioritizing getting rid of debt early on is a smart financial move.
Talk to a Medicare broker about your options
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If you're 65, you qualify for Medicare. That means you will need to sort through several options before choosing one.
A Medicare insurance broker can help you pick a Medicare plan that meets your needs and saves you the most money.
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Maximize your catch-up contributions
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Starting at age 50, you can contribute more to your 401(k) than younger workers. People in this age group can contribute an extra $7,500 each year to their account.
Beginning in 2025, the catch-up contribution for those ages 60 to 63 is $11,250.
Look for senior discounts
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Save money by shopping at businesses in your area that offer senior discounts.
For instance, many Grocery Outlet stores give seniors 10% off on Tuesdays. Some Albertsons give seniors 10% off on the first Wednesday of the month.
Downsize your home
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If your home is too big for your current needs, consider selling it for a profit and moving into a smaller, more affordable home. A smaller home can also result in lower costs related to mortgage interest, taxes, utilities and insurance.
Make sure to read up on current mortgage rates and housing costs in your area before trying to move, however. In some cases, market volatility might make downsizing more costly than staying put.
Travel during the off-season
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You don't necessarily need to give up vacations entirely to increase your net worth, but traveling during the off-season can land you better hotel and airfare rates.
You'll also have the benefit of avoiding the biggest crowds.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with a debit card
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2 <p>See website for details.</p>
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Learn more about the Discover Cashback Checking account
Join membership programs like AARP
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While membership programs such as AARP or the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) often cost you an upfront fee, using them correctly can save you money.
These organizations offer senior-specific discounts that might save you a bundle.
Sign up for loyalty programs
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Loyalty programs at your favorite retailers often get you a reduced rate on purchases. Some grocery stores also offer rewards that net you discounts on fuel.
For the most part, loyalty programs don't cost anything to join. You just sign up to start saving.
Use the library
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Along with books, your local library probably also gives you access to movies, audiobooks, and free streaming services.
Depending on the library, you might also be able to check out assisted-living devices, passes to local attractions, electronic devices such as DVD players, and more. Borrowing instead of buying helps you get ahead financially.
Bottom line
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The more money you can save while you're still in the workforce, the higher your net worth — and the better you can prepare for retirement.
Making the most of your pre-retirement years might require some scrimping and saving, but it will pay off down the road when you're enjoying the retirement of your dreams.
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