Sep 13, 2024
As of 2022, the average U.S. household had a net worth of $1,063,700, according to the Federal Reserve — a pretty high number.
Before you get too frazzled that your net worth may not be as high, know that the median net worth that year was only $192,000. That number is more representative of the typical U.S. household.
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But, say you do have a seven-figure net worth as a result of careful spending, consistent savings and savvy investments. You could take that money and buy yourself a mansion or a collection of sports cars. Or, you could continue to save and invest.
You might think there’s little sense in having a lot of money if you aren’t going to use it for your enjoyment. So, here are a few benefits of having a large net worth and not spending your money like there’s no tomorrow.
The freedom to reclaim your time
You don’t need to spend your money to benefit from it in a meaningful way. One advantage of having a high net worth is the knowledge that you’re not tied to a job that makes you miserable.
If you have a large safety net, you can abandon a lucrative but stressful career and pursue a job you’re passionate about. Or, you can use that money to retire early and enjoy more of your free time.
A 2024 survey from Corebridge Financial finds that 22% of Americans expect to retire between ages 62 and 64, while 12% are aiming to stop working between ages 50 and 61. With a large enough nest egg, early retirement may be more than possible.
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The peace of mind a financial safety net provides
Having a lot of money gives you the certainty that you’re covered in the event of a large unplanned expense. You’re also covered in case a medical event leaves you unable to work for a while, or if you’re laid off for an extended period.
As of 2022, only 63% of U.S. adults were able to cover an unplanned $400 expense by dipping into their savings or charging it on a credit card they'd be able to pay in full by its next statement date, according to the Federal Reserve. The remaining 37% would have to sell something, borrow the money or blow off the expense in question due to a lack of funds.
On the other hand, if you’re a millionaire, a $400 expense is probably a non-event for you. Even a $4,000 expense can be something you can handle confidently.
The ability to help others
Giving USA reports that charitable donations declined in 2022 as a result of a gloomy economic outlook, but by the end of 2023, contributions bounced back and reached an all-time high.
A seven-figure net worth gives you the option to support causes that are important to you, whether it’s funding for medical research or increasing access to nutritious food for those in need. You may find that spending your money in the form of charitable donations is a far more fulfilling prospect than using it to buy things that will only take up space in your home.
Having money could also free up more of your time for volunteering. If you’re in a good place financially, you can scale back on work and carve out more hours to help out a local organization. It may also make you feel good to be able to help friends and loved ones who are struggling financially.
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Maurie Backman has been writing professionally for well over a decade. Since becoming a full-time writer, she's produced thousands of articles on topics ranging from Social Security to investing to real estate.
