News & Trending Money News

Here's The Average Net Worth of 90-Year-Olds (How Do You Compare?)

See how your financial picture stacks up to today's 90-year-olds.

By Summer Nevins

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Nov. 21, 2025

If you've made it to 90, congratulations — you've already surpassed the average life expectancy by a wide margin, an accomplishment in itself. But longevity brings its own financial questions. Whether you're comfortably retired or managing on a fixed income, it's always a good idea to check up on your financial health.

So, after nine decades of earning, saving, investing, and spending, how much has it all added up to? Many assume that by 90, the totals should be sky-high, but the reality often looks quite different. Before diving in, remember that net worth isn't just what you own: it's what you own minus what you owe. That's the clearest picture of your financial standing today.

Get instant access to hundreds of discounts

Over 50? Join AARP today— because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks like discounts on travel, dining, and even prescriptions.

Get 25% off membership — just $15 for your first year with auto-renewal — and a free gift if you join today.

Become an AARP member now

What is the average net worth of people in their 90s?

According to data from Empower, the average net worth of Americans in their 90s is about $1.21 million. That includes home equity, retirement accounts, investments, and other assets, minus any remaining debts. However, the median net worth, the midpoint of the range, is far lower, reflecting that a few very wealthy retirees skew the average upward.

For most 90-year-olds, the bulk of their wealth sits in paid-off homes, retirement accounts, and savings rather than active income. By this age, income from Social Security, pensions, or annuities typically replaces employment earnings.

Who really has the cheapest auto insurance in your area? Check your zip code here.

How is net worth calculated?

Net worth is a simple equation: Assets – Liabilities = Net Worth

Assets include your home, investments, vehicles, and savings accounts. Liabilities cover mortgages, loans, and credit card balances. For many in their 90s, debts are minimal, and home values or investment gains carry their net worth.

Tracking your net worth gives you a snapshot of your financial health and can help you make informed decisions about spending, gifting, and estate planning.

Ways to extend your savings

If your net worth is above the median, you're ahead of most people your age. If it's lower, don't panic — much depends on location, lifestyle, and whether you're still covering major costs like healthcare or assisted living.

At this stage, increasing your net worth isn't about chasing big investment returns. It's about preserving what you have, managing expenses wisely, and finding lower-risk ways to generate stability. Here are a few practical strategies suited to your stage of life.

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>

Simplify and consolidate your finances

Multiple accounts, scattered investments, and overlapping insurance policies can make managing your money difficult. Consolidating bank and investment accounts can reduce fees, make tracking easier, and ensure your heirs have a clearer picture of your finances.

Enlist a financial advisor

In your 90s, you probably don't want to spend much time managing your finances. As an add-on to the first tip, consider hiring a financial advisor to help lift the burden of managing your money and simplifying your finances. A trusted advisor or family member can help simplify things while keeping your wishes intact.

Prioritize steady income over aggressive growth

At 90, preservation matters more than aggressive growth. Focus on reliable income sources: annuities, dividend-paying stocks, or high-yield savings accounts, rather than volatile investments. The goal is a steady cash flow that covers living expenses without dipping heavily into principal so your savings last as long as you need them.

Reassess housing and care costs

Housing often represents the largest expense and asset. Downsizing or moving to assisted living can both unlock equity and reduce upkeep. If staying home is a priority, consider reverse mortgage options or in-home care subsidies that let you maintain independence without draining savings

Reduce Unnecessary Expenses

Review recurring costs like subscription services, insurance add-ons, or underused memberships can help you save tons. Many retirees overpay for things they no longer use. Small savings can add up over a year, freeing up cash for care, hobbies, or family support.

Leverage available benefits and tax breaks

Programs like Social Security survivor benefits, veterans' assistance, or property tax relief for seniors can really stretch your income further. Many older adults don't claim all the benefits they qualify for. A financial planner or a tax professional can help identify missed opportunities.

Revisit your investment mix

Even late in life, your investment allocation matters. Shifting some assets from stocks to safer options, like Treasury bonds, CDs, or money market funds, can preserve value while still earning modest returns. The goal isn't growth, but stability and protection from market volatility.

Plan for healthcare and long-term care costs

Medical expenses can rise sharply in your 90s. Review your Medicare coverage, supplemental insurance, and potential long-term care needs. Planning ahead can prevent unexpected bills from eating into your savings and help ensure consistent access to quality care.

Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially

Bottom Line

While the average 90-year-old's net worth hovers around $1.2 million, what truly matters is how well those assets support your lifestyle and long-term peace of mind. And with the right money moves, you can still get ahead financially, even in your 90s.

One surprising fact: senior Americans control nearly 70% of U.S. household wealth, according to the Federal Reserve, yet many underestimate how far careful planning can stretch their resources. Even small financial tweaks at this age can safeguard comfort and stability, proof that it's never too late to strengthen your financial footing.

More from FinanceBuzz:

Benefits

Card Details

$0 annual fee
Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
Apply Now

INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Redeem cash back for any amount
Apply now and you could get a decision in as little as 90 seconds. No annual fee.
Start shopping and earning rewards in minutes with your virtual card, before your physical card arrives in the mail, if eligible.
Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.74% to 26.74% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
Terms and conditions apply.

Discover <span class='whitespace-nowrap'>it<sup>®</sup></span> Cash Back

4.7

Apply Now

on Discover’s secure website

Read Card Review

Intro Offer

Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.

Annual Fee

Why we like it