Money Guy Show

How Much Debt Do Americans Have? (By Age AND By Type!)

Dec 5, 2025
Discover the surprising debt landscape across generations in America! Gen Z battles student loans averaging $19k, while Millennials grapple with rising obligations and a credit card debt of $7.6k. Boomers face looming retirements with significant mortgages and student loans. The hosts share practical tips for managing your finances, like the 'first-year financing rule' for student loans and sensible car-buying strategies. Learn how to transform your financial future, regardless of your starting point!
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INSIGHT

Nationwide Debt Is A Major Vulnerability

  • The average American carries $23,000 in non-mortgage debt and half can't cover three months of expenses.
  • That combination makes debt a major national financial vulnerability, not just individual trouble.
ADVICE

Cap Student Debt To First-Year Pay

  • Limit student loan borrowing so total debt does not exceed your expected first-year salary.
  • Treat student loans as short-term investments to avoid decades of repayment.
ANECDOTE

Host’s Early Car Loan Confession

  • Brian admits he once needed a financed car early in his career to get to work and build momentum.
  • He uses that experience to justify practical, bounded use of auto loans for those starting out.
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