Over-55s hold majority of UK property wealth

£3.7 trillion held by over-55s in their homes

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Recent figures show that homeowners aged 55 and over now hold an astonishing £3.7 trillion in property wealth. That accounts for nearly 70% of the UK’s total housing wealth.

The data, provided by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and analysed by Just Group, breaks this down further:

• People aged 55–64 own the largest share, with a combined £1.4 trillion.
• Those aged 65–74 hold around £1.2 trillion.
• Homeowners aged 75 and above account for £1.1 trillion.

These numbers highlight a growing financial divide across generations. In comparison, younger age groups hold significantly less wealth in property. 

For instance, homeowners aged 35–44 have just £537 billion, and those aged 25–34 hold only £219 billion, a mere fraction of the overall total.

How property wealth can help you meet financial needs 

According to Stephen Lowe of Just Group, this concentration of property wealth among older generations could offer a vital lifeline: “The sheer scale of property wealth held by older people enables them to plug into the powerhouse of financial resources held in their homes to meet a range of needs in later life, from topping up their own income in retirement to helping family.

“The ability to tap into this wealth will be particularly useful for people who may be entering retirement without the security of a defined benefit pension and with only modest defined contribution pensions.”

Unlocking the wealth in your home

If you are ‘asset rich, cash poor’ and wish to leverage your property wealth to release cash, you have a number of options. One of these of course is downsizing to a less expensive property. That could mean moving to a smaller home or a less expensive area. 

However, if selling up and moving isn’t practical for you, one alternative to consider is equity release. If you’re aged 55 or over and a homeowner, this could give you access to some of the value tied up in your property – without the need to move. 

Whether you’re looking to supplement your retirement income, help loved ones onto the property ladder, or fund lifestyle goals, equity release could be a flexible, tax-free solution.

To learn more about how equity release works and whether it could be right for you, get in touch today for a personalised, no-obligation quote at the latest equity release interest rates.

Just call us on 0800 096 2215 or request a call back and we’ll arrange a no-obligation appointment with one of our selected equity release advisers for you. Or to get a quick estimate of how much you could unlock from your home, why use our free online equity release calculator.

About Richard Groom. A writer with 20+ years’ experience across several sectors including financial services, Richard has a passion for writing clear and simple content on even the most complex of subjects. In his spare time, Richard loves exploring the hills and mountains of the UK on long walks with his faithful cocker spaniel. Follow Richard on LinkedIn