Visualised: How America Borrows Across Generations

America’s $18.8 trillion household debt isn’t spread evenly and the numbers are honestly eye opening.

As per NY Fed, Americans in their 40s carry the biggest share (26.2%), including mortgages, car loans and college tuition. Meanwhile, Gen Z is just getting started at 5.6% but the number will only climb from here.

Adults aged 40 to 49 carry the largest share of the country's $18.8 trillion in outstanding debt, accounting for 26.2% ($4.9 trillion). Those aged 50 to 59 aren't far behind at 22.3% ($4.2 trillion), while the 30 to 39 age group holds 21% ($3.9 trillion).

Older Americans carry comparatively less debt, with the 60 to 69 and 70+ groups holding 15% and 9.9% respectively. At the youngest end, 18 to 29 year olds account for just 5.6% of total debt, just $1.1 trillion, showing how limited Gen Z's footprint in the borrowing economy still is.

Here’s the full breakdown of how America borrows across generations:

1. Ages 18-29: $1.1 trillion

2. Ages 30-39: $3.9 trillion

3. Ages 40-49: $4.9 trillion

4. Ages 50-59: $4.2 trillion

5. Ages 60-69: $2.8 trillion

6. Ages 70+: $1.9 trillion

The real question isn’t how much debt America has but who’s holding the bag.

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