August 08, 2025
A new study from SmartAsset reveals dramatic differences in household net worth from one state to another. In 2025, the median U.S. household net worth is estimated at $187,690. Nearly 60% of households hold a net worth of at least $100,000, and 29% surpass $500,000.
Yet, when you drill down to state‑level data, the disparities become even more striking. Let’s explore what those numbers mean—and what families can do about them with a tool like UNest.
1. Wealth Varies Dramatically by State—Don’t Let Geography Define You
At the top, Hawaii leads with a median household net worth of $502,563, including the highest median retirement savings of $159,510 and deposit balances of $43,499.
Next comes:
Washington: $398,881
Massachusetts: $327,953
Maine: $326,570
Utah: $324,975
On the other end of the spectrum:
Louisiana: lowest median net worth at $76,458—less than half the national median; also the highest share (54%) of households with net worth under $100K.
Arkansas: among the lowest at $99,407, and the lowest median retirement savings at $40,303.
These figures reflect regional inequities in housing markets, savings behaviors, and investment access. But they don’t dictate your family’s future.
2. Median Stats Can Feel Discouraging—but They Don’t Define You
It’s important to remember: median household net worth doesn’t reveal every household’s story. Your family’s path won’t be determined by state‑level averages.
UNest empowers you to shift focus from regional averages to your own goals. Whether you’re saving for college, a future home, or emergency funds, our app helps you start where you are and grow intentionally.
3. Home Equity Matters—Especially Where It’s Missing
SmartAsset’s analysis includes home equity, savings, retirement accounts, and other financial assets. In states like Maine, 80% of households have home equity—with median equity around $212,680.
But in places like New York, just 49.6% of households have home equity to include in their net worth calculation—illustrating how housing access shapes financial well‑being.
For families in less equity‑rich regions, that’s a call to action: prioritizing savings and investments early—even small contributions add up.
4. Where You Start Doesn’t Dictate Where You’ll Go
Wealth-building isn’t about where you live; it’s about where you choose to go next. UNest helps level the field:
Invest in tax‑advantaged savings for your kids—no matter your home equity or local economy.
Break down long-term goals into achievable steps.
Build confidence and consistency with simple tools and reminders.
You don’t need to be in the top-ranked state to build a strong financial foundation for your family.
5. Turn Awareness Into Action with UNest
Instead of letting state “net worth envy” hold you back, use the data as fuel:
Take control: Start automated deposits—even a few dollars per week can grow meaningfully.
Rally your family around shared goals—college, security, or financial peace of mind.
UNest is your partner in building upward momentum, regardless of your ZIP code.
Your Family’s Net Worth Is Your Story, Not the Data’s
The SmartAsset study paints a big-picture view of where households stand across the U.S.—and the numbers can be powerful. But the real power lies in what you do with them.
Whether you’re building from $76K or $500K in net worth, your family’s financial future starts with smart steps. UNest puts those steps within reach—helping you move from data to purpose.
📲 Start building your family’s net worth today with UNest.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. You should consult your own financial, legal, and tax advisors before engaging in any transaction. Information, including hypothetical projections of finances, may not take into account taxes, commissions, or other factors which may significantly affect potential outcomes. This material should not be considered an offer or recommendation to buy or sell a security. While information and sources are believed to be accurate, UNest does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information or source provided herein and is under no obligation to update this information.
