Federal Reserve Report Shows Widening U.S. Wealth Gap

The Federal Reserve System released its Survey of Consumer Finances on Friday, revealing a widening wealth gap in the United States between 2022 and 2025. While the median family net worth rose 2% to approximately $216,000, these gains were concentrated among affluent and older populations.

Median wealth for the top 10% of earners increased by 31%, and wealth for Americans aged 75 and older rose 37%. This demographic has become the richest age group, with a median net worth of $505,000. These disparities are attributed to strong stock market performance, which disproportionately benefits those with significant asset holdings.

Conversely, wealth decreased for the bottom 40% of earners and declined 23% for individuals under 35. The survey also indicates rising financial instability for many households, with the share of families reporting they are behind on loan payments increasing from 12% in 2022 to 20% in 2025.