measure of wealth blog

Money Isn't the Only Measure of Wealth

02/18/2026 Written by: APIA Communications

A recent survey by Charles Schwab, which studied current attitudes toward wealth, found that the amount of money someone has ranks way down the list of attributes that make people feel wealthy.1


According to the survey, the top-ranking measure of wealth was "strong relationships with family, friends or partners." That was followed closely by "emotional satisfaction with life" and then "having free time." Physical and mental health were ranked highly, as were professional achievements and life experiences.

Even though we've lived through an era of unprecedented economic growth—where the average house is roomier, the average car more luxurious, and the average person much better educated—people still feel that true wealth can't be measured by your bank balance.

The other markers of true wealth in Schwab's survey, from good health to varied life experiences, are also greatly aided by having adequate financial resources. Money alone can't buy happiness. But it is a useful tool you can use to foster those things that make life truly meaningful.

As your trusted advisors, our role isn't just to help you accumulate and preserve wealth. We're here to help you think through your plan for a well-balanced life. One that's fulfilling as you save for retirement as well as in your post-work years.

 

  1. http://go.pardot.com/e/91522/experience-according-new-study/972ryz/2989146878/h/TIK86qCySptskWVLQeht2Z74ZF-9im4yAzmsXYEYdQ4

 

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