Georgia net worth trends in 2018 reflected a period of moderate household balance sheet growth across the state. This snapshot captures income, assets, debt, and median net worth as residents navigated rising costs and uneven wage gains.
Below is a structured summary of key 2018 indicators for Georgia households, designed for quick scanning and easy comparison across metro areas and income levels.
| County / Metro Area | Median Household Income (USD) | Median Net Worth (USD) | Homeownership Rate (%) | Household Debt-to-Income Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Statewide | 56,183 | 97,500 | 66.2 | 1.12 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | 65,420 | 143,900 | 60.5 | 1.08 |
| Savannah | 51,942 | 79,300 | 63.8 | 1.15 |
| Augusta-Richmond County | 49,718 | 72,600 | 64.9 | 1.20 |
| Athens-Clarke County | 51,350 | 88,400 | 45.7 | 1.05 |
Income and Earnings Landscape in 2018 Georgia
Wage Growth and Sector Mix
Median household income in Georgia reached approximately 56,183 USD in 2018, with notable variation across metro areas. Professional, financial, and technology sectors drove higher earnings in the Atlanta metro, while smaller metros relied more heavily on trade, transportation, and manufacturing roles.
Labor Force Participation
Participation rates remained steady, though workforce attachment lagged in rural regions. Programs supporting skills training and credentials helped some workers move into higher-wage positions, contributing to gradual income gains at the median.
Household Wealth and Asset Trends
Home Values and Equity
Median home values in Georgia in 2018 showed strength in the Atlanta metro, supporting household balance sheets. Homeownership remained a primary vehicle for wealth building, though appreciation was uneven between urban cores and rural areas.
Retirement and Investment Accounts
Participation in employer-sponsored retirement plans and individual retirement accounts increased modestly. However, lower-income households remained less likely to hold significant financial assets, limiting overall net worth growth.
Debt Patterns and Financial Obligations
Mortgage and Consumer Credit
Household debt-to-income ratios averaged around 1.12, with mortgage balances rising alongside home price gains. Credit card and auto loan balances also grew, though delinquency rates stayed at historically low levels.
Education Loan Burden
Student loan balances continued to climb, particularly among younger households in metro counties. This pressure weighed more heavily on younger residents and constrained net worth accumulation for newer homeowners.
Policy and Economic Outlook for Georgia Households
- Expand access to affordable homeownership to sustain wealth building across metro and rural areas.
- Enhance financial education and retirement plan coverage, especially for lower- and middle-income workers.
- Support small business growth and wage advancement in nonmetro counties to reduce regional disparities.
- Strengthen safety-net programs and credit counseling to help households manage debt without sacrificing long-term assets.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does median net worth in Atlanta compare to smaller metros in Georgia in 2018?
Atlanta households reported substantially higher median net worth, driven by higher incomes and home values, while smaller metros showed more moderate wealth levels despite lower costs.
What role did homeownership play in Georgia net worth trends in 2018?
Homeownership was a key contributor to net worth, with rising prices increasing equity, although gains were uneven across regions and were partially offset by high mortgage balances.
Which types of debt grew most between 2017 and 2018 in Georgia?
Mortgage and student loan balances saw the largest increases, while credit card and auto loan growth was more measured, reflecting both demand and stricter underwriting in some segments.
Which income groups saw the strongest net worth growth in 2018 Georgia?
Middle- and upper-income households gained the most, benefiting from rising financial assets and home values, while low-income households faced stagnant wages and higher debt costs.