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Average Net Worth of 85-Year-Old Americans (How Do You Stack Up?)

The average net worth at 85 may surprise you, but no matter where you stand, it's not too late to make smart financial moves.

By Leaman Crews

Edited by Laura Hohenstein

Updated Nov. 4, 2025

By age 85, many Americans have transitioned from earning money to relying on what they've saved. That makes understanding your net worth especially important. It's not about competition. It's about knowing how prepared you are for your later years.

Here's what the data says about the net worth of 85-year-olds, and what you can do to strengthen your financial fitness, no matter your current standing.

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Average net worth at age 85

According to the Federal Reserve's latest Survey of Consumer Finances, the average net worth for Americans aged 75 and older is $1,624,100. The median net worth, however, is much lower at $335,600.

Why the big difference? The average is skewed by extremely wealthy households. The median, the middle number in a data set, often gives a better picture of where most people stand financially.

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How net worth is calculated

Your net worth is the value of everything you own, minus everything you owe. That includes assets like your home, vehicles, retirement accounts, savings, and valuables. Your liabilities are debts, such as mortgages, car loans, and credit card balances.

Even in your 80s, you can still adjust your net worth by managing either side of this equation.

Ways to improve your finances at 85

If you're not where you'd like to be financially, there are still simple steps you can take to make progress.

Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt

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 45% before fees, or 20% 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>

Pay off high-interest debt

If you're carrying credit card balances, try to pay them down as soon as possible. High interest charges can eat into your savings quickly. Eliminating this debt can free up monthly income and improve your overall financial picture.

Review and cancel unused subscriptions

Take a look at your recent bank or credit card statements. You may find streaming services, memberships, or subscriptions you don't use anymore. Canceling just a few could save you hundreds of dollars each year.

Sell items you no longer need

Consider selling collectibles, unused furniture, or other items you no longer want. You could list them online or host a garage sale. Turning clutter into cash is a great way to boost your savings.

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Automate your bill payments

Late fees add up fast, but they're easily avoidable. Setting up automatic payments ensures your bills are paid on time and may even qualify you for small discounts with some service providers.

Put savings in a high-yield account

Keeping cash in a regular savings account could mean missing out on interest. A high-yield savings account or certificate of deposit can help your money grow, even at a conservative rate, and better keep pace with inflation.

Explore property tax relief

If you own a home, check if your state offers tax relief for seniors. Some programs reduce your home's taxable value or offer direct tax credits, which can lower your annual expenses.

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Use gifting to reduce taxable estate

If you have a large estate, giving financial gifts can lower future estate taxes while helping family members today. In 2025, you can gift up to $19,000 per person annually without triggering the gift tax.

Revisit your Social Security benefits

If you've had changes in your family situation, like becoming widowed, you might qualify for a higher benefit. Contact the Social Security Administration to review your current benefits and potential options.

Bottom line

At 85, your net worth might not be the same as it was a decade ago, and that's okay. What matters is that it still reflects your ability to live comfortably and cover your needs.

And if you want to improve your financial standing, you're not out of options. In fact, many older Americans are already in a strong position. A survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that 46% of people aged 75 and older are completely debt-free.

That means every dollar you save or earn from here on out could go directly toward building wealth and enjoying the years ahead.

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