Add up your assets and liabilities to see your total net worth and financial health.
Net worth is the single most important number in personal finance. It provides a complete picture of your financial health by showing what you own minus what you owe. Unlike income, which measures cash flow, net worth measures accumulated wealth. A growing net worth over time means you're building lasting financial security โ regardless of how much you earn.
A 35-year-old with the following financial picture:
Net worth is the total value of everything you own (assets) minus everything you owe (liabilities). It provides a comprehensive snapshot of your financial health at a single point in time. A positive net worth means you own more than you owe; a negative net worth means your debts exceed your assets.
Financial experts recommend calculating your net worth at least once a quarter (every 3 months) to track trends over time. After major life events โ buying a home, paying off debt, receiving an inheritance โ recalculate immediately. Consistent tracking reveals whether your financial decisions are moving you in the right direction.
A common rule of thumb (from The Millionaire Next Door) is: Target Net Worth = (Age ร Annual Pre-Tax Income) รท 10. By age 30, your net worth should roughly equal your annual salary; by 40, twice your salary; by 50, four times; by 60, six to eight times. However, this varies greatly by career stage, location, and personal circumstances.
Yes, include your home at its current fair market value as an asset, and your remaining mortgage balance as a liability. However, some financial planners distinguish between "investable net worth" (excluding your home) and "total net worth" (including it), since you cannot easily liquidate your primary residence.
Liquid assets (cash, savings, stocks, bonds) can be quickly converted to cash without significant loss of value. Illiquid assets (real estate, business equity, collectibles) take time to sell and may lose value in the process. A healthy net worth includes a solid base of liquid assets for emergencies.