Where Is the Richest Neighborhood in the United States
Many analysts identify Atherton, California, as the richest neighborhood in the United States. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, Atherton features large estates, low population density, and some of the highest median home prices in the country. Nearby enclaves such as Medina, Washington, and Scarsdale, New York, also frequently appear on lists of the wealthiest communities.
What Makes These Neighborhoods So Wealthy
High median household income, substantial net worth, and elevated property values define these areas. Residents often include executives, founders of major technology and finance firms, and inheritors of significant family wealth. Limited housing supply, top-rated school districts, and proximity to major business hubs further support high costs of living and strong demand.
How Rankings Measure Neighborhood Wealth
Researchers typically use median household income, average net worth per household, and median home sale price to compare neighborhoods. Sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and private real estate data firms provide the underlying figures. Because definitions and methodologies vary, different reports may rank the same areas differently.
For broader context on income and wealth across U.S. communities, see the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey at https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs.
