Visa Report: Affluent Status Requires $1.8M Net Worth and $210K Income
V•Visa’s U.S. Economic Insight report finds net worth needed to enter the top 10% rose to $1.8 million and required annual income increased to $210,000. From 2019 to 2023, S&P 500 gains of 90% and housing price rises of 35% contributed to a 24% surge in income thresholds, with regional variation from $1.6M in Arkansas to $2M in California.
1. Affluence Thresholds Increase
Visa’s U.S. Economic Insight report shows the net worth threshold for the top 10% climbed to $1.8 million while the annual income requirement rose to $210,000, marking a 24% increase since 2019.
2. Asset Market Impact
Between 2019 and 2023, the S&P 500 surged 90% and U.S. housing prices grew 35%, driving the income benchmark higher and widening the gap between asset owners and non-owners.
3. Regional Variations
Thresholds vary by purchasing power: affluent status in California now demands roughly $2.0 million net worth and $236,000 income, compared to $1.6 million and $182,000 in Arkansas.
4. Generational Insights
Baby boomers, representing 12% of affluent households, account for 42% of affluent spending, while 57% of struggling Gen Xers face mortgage and student debt pressures despite higher incomes.
