UK Net Worth by Age — How Do You Compare in 2026?
Net worth — your total assets minus your total debts — is one of the most useful measures of financial health. But it's only meaningful in context. Here's how UK households compare at different ages, based on ONS Wealth and Assets Survey data.
UK median net worth by age (2026 estimates)
| Age group | Median net worth | Main driver |
|---|---|---|
| 16–24 | ~£5,000 | Savings, often negative (student debt) |
| 25–34 | ~£47,000 | Early property equity, pension pot |
| 35–44 | ~£185,000 | Property equity, growing pension |
| 45–54 | ~£310,000 | Property, substantial pension |
| 55–64 | ~£500,000 | Property, near-retirement pension |
| 65+ | ~£430,000 | Property (often mortgage-free), drawdown |
Medians are more representative than averages, which are skewed by the ultra-wealthy.
Why property dominates UK wealth
For most UK households, property equity is the largest single component of net worth. The UK's historically high house prices — combined with relatively low homeownership rates among younger generations — mean net worth distributions are heavily influenced by whether you own your home.
A 45-year-old homeowner with £200,000 equity, a £150,000 pension pot and £30,000 in savings has a net worth of £380,000 before debts. The same person renting with identical savings would have just £180,000. This gap is a major driver of wealth inequality in the UK.
What to focus on at each life stage
20s: Build emergency fund, start pension (especially employer matching), avoid high-interest debt. Net worth growth is slow but foundations matter.
30s: If buying, focus on deposit and LTV. Increase pension contributions. Build ISA. This decade determines trajectory.
40s: Maximum earning years for most — increase pension contributions aggressively. Consider overpaying mortgage. Protect wealth with adequate insurance.
50s: Review pension projections. Plan retirement income. Consider whether to downsize.
60s+: Optimise drawdown strategy, tax-efficient income, inheritance planning.
How to calculate your net worth
Assets: property value, pension pot (current value), savings and investments, vehicles (current value), other valuables. Liabilities: mortgage balance, loans, credit card balances, student loans. Net worth = assets − liabilities.
Track your net worth
Enter your assets and liabilities to see your complete financial picture and compare to UK medians.
Calculate your net worth
Add up your assets and liabilities to see your full financial picture and how you compare.