What 35–44-Year-Olds Earn on Average—and Where You Stand

Core Insights - Household income and wealth significantly shift with age, with families typically seeing earnings and assets rise through midlife, particularly for those aged 35-44, which is a crucial stage for building financial strength [2][4][5] - Understanding how household income and net worth compare to others in the same age group can provide valuable perspective on financial health and improvement opportunities [2][3] Income and Wealth Analysis - The median household income for the 35-44 age group was $86,473 in 2022, which is higher than nearly all other age groups, with only the 45-54 age group earning slightly more at $91,878 [4][5] - Households aged 75 and older reported a median income of $49,073, primarily from retirement sources such as pensions and Social Security [4] - Income varies significantly across different demographics, with homeowners and college graduates generally earning more than renters and those without a degree [3][5] Financial Stability Factors - Income is only one aspect of financial health; tracking net worth provides a clearer picture of long-term stability [5] - The Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances defines a family as the economically dominant individual or couple and includes various income sources such as wages, self-employment, government support, and retirement withdrawals [6]