10 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American

Comparing yourself to others isn't always productive, but benchmarking a few key financial metrics can help you understand where you stand financially and identify areas where you're already ahead of the average American.

For example, do you save enough money compared to others in your age group? How does your emergency fund match up against those of others who have put away money for a rainy day?

The following 10 metrics can help you figure out where you fit financially compared to the rest of the country.

You have at least $8,000 in savings

The Federal Reserve's latest Survey of Consumer Finances still reports the median transaction account balance of about $8,000, so this section can remain as is.

So, give yourself a pat on the back if you have at least that much saved. Then, get to work saving even more. If you're ready to start, you can check out savings accounts that pay high interest rates.

Your retirement savings are above average for your age

According to Vanguard's "How America Saves 2026" report, median retirement account balances continued climbing in 2025. Here are the median balances for participants in defined-contribution plans by age:

• Ages 35-44: $46,919

• Ages 45-54: $78,730

So, if you're in your mid-30s and have more than about $47,000 in your 401(k), you're doing better than most of your peers. But again, this is simply a comparison against others your age. Just because you are saving more than they are doesn't necessarily mean you are saving enough.

Your credit score is higher than 700

According to Experian, the average credit score for Americans ages 18 to 28 is 678. For those aged 29 to 44, the average credit score is 689. Knowing your credit score and history is the first step to improving it. Free services like Credit Sesame or Credit Karma can help you easily stay on top of your credit.

You have at least six months of emergency savings

According to Bankrate's 2026 Emergency Savings Report, 27% of Americans have enough emergency savings to cover at least six months of expenses.

So, if you think you can comfortably cover an emergency expense the next time one pops up, you can feel pretty confident that your finances are more secure than those of many Americans.

You rarely dip into your savings

It feels great to watch your savings account grow, but if you're depositing an amount you can't afford into your savings only to have to transfer it back a couple of weeks later, it can get discouraging.

If you have a well-planned budget, you'll be able to determine how much you can set aside for savings each month. 

There are a few exceptions for necessary purchases, but it's good to get in the habit of leaving your savings untouched as much as possible.

You have less than $7,886 in credit card debt

According to LendingTree, the average American adult carried $7,886 in credit card debt during the third quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve data showed total U.S. credit card balances reached roughly $1.25 trillion in early 2026.

But it's crucial to keep that debt as low as possible going forward. That's especially true if you plan to retire early, as your fixed income can make it harder to pay down credit card debt.

You keep tabs on your money

One of the easiest and best financial habits to form is to keep tabs on your finances. Many Americans are unaware that they are still paying for subscriptions that they don't use anymore or are overpaying for bills unnecessarily. 

There are a number of budgeting apps that make keeping track of your spending and saving easy. 

For example, an app like Rocket Money can help with anything from managing subscriptions to tracking your credit score. You can see all your finances in one place and receive insights and alerts to help you achieve your goals, taking the stress out of budgeting.

Your net worth is above average for your age

Net worth is more than just a financial metric used for the richest of the rich. Since your net worth is what remains after subtracting liabilities from assets, it can be a useful metric for anyone who wants to understand where they stand financially.

To calculate your net worth, find the total cash value of any property, jewelry, cash, investments, insurance policies, and other assets. Then, subtract any debt, such as mortgage loans, student debt, and credit card obligations. What's left is your net worth.

According to the Federal Reserve's 2023 Survey of Consumer Finances, the most recent survey, median net worth for Americans ages 35-44 stood at $135,300. For Americans ages 45-54, that number was $247,200.

You're on top of tax planning

While thinking about your taxes may not be the most exciting, tax-advantaged saving and investing can help you get ahead. You should stay organized throughout the year, keeping track of your income and deductions. 

Planning your budget around your contributions to a retirement account or health savings account if you have a high-deductible health plan can help you reduce the amount you'll owe in taxes each year while helping you prepare for a healthy financial life and future.

You pay your bills on time each month

If you're consistently paying bills on time and avoiding late fees, you're building one of the strongest indicators of financial health. Payment history is the single biggest factor in your credit score.

Bottom line

They say comparison is the thief of joy, so if you don't measure up to every single one of these metrics, take some deep breaths. There's always time to set new financial goals and empower yourself to take control of your financial future.

So set your sights on new goals: Crush your debt and start building your wealth. 

Remember that you are doing this not out of any desire to keep up with the Joneses but for your own quality of life and peace of mind.

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