Data in this special report was drawn from the Spring 2007 Survey of Affluent Americans, the eleventh in a continuing series of twice-yearly studies of the most affluent 10% of U.S. households (a total of 11.2 million households with an average $3.1 million net worth).

These surveys measure and track how the affluent assess current business conditions and their 12-month outlook for the economy, the stock market, and their personal household earnings. The surveys also monitor anticipated changes in spending for a variety of different products and services, changes in expected rates of saving, and primary investment objectives.

This report is based on data derived from a series of questions about vacation home ownership and familiarity with the concepts of Private Residence and Destination Clubs. Brand awareness, current ownership, and interest in purchase (during the next 12 months) were also measured for the two concepts. Current ownership of wholly-owned second homes and plans to purchase (during the next 12 months) one for seasonal or year-round use were also identified.

For much of the preceding, the report also provides data for demographic segments within the affluent population as well as references to historical information (Fall 2002 and Spring 2005 surveys that included some similar questions) where available.

Research Methodology

This research is based on self-administered questionnaires mailed to a randomly selected, national sample of 3,900 men and women in households that, based on their income and ownership of certain assets, were expected to meet the minimum net worth requirement of $800,000.

The profile of the sample is as follows: $339,000 average household income, $3.1 million average household net worth, and $1.7 million average household investable assets. The average value of their primary home is $1.2 million. The average age is 53 while 91% are married and 52% are males. The sample represents 33 states plus the District of Columbia.

The overall survey response rate was 12.4 percent. These survey results are based upon the 398 men and women who promptly responded to the survey and met the minimum net worth requirement. The maximum margin of error of this survey, at 95% confidence, is five percentage points.

Additional Information

These surveys focus on the 11.2 million households that represent the wealthiest 10% of all U.S. households, based on net worth. The latest research available from The Federal Reserve Board indicates these households:

• Have a minimum net worth of $828,000.
• Have an average net worth of $3.1 million.
• Have an average income of $256,000.
• Earn 36% of the total income of all Americans.
• Own 63% of the personal assets of all U.S. households.
• Hold 89% of the total value of all publicly traded stock and stock mutual funds in the U.S.
• Own a primary residence valued at an average of $651,000.

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The Affluent Consumer Market in the U.S.
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