Over the next decade, women are expected to control more than $30 trillion in wealth across the United States—a shift financial experts call one of the most impactful economic movements of our time. This transition isn’t just about accumulating wealth—it’s about women stepping into leadership roles, influencing family legacies, and making purposeful financial decisions.
Here in Columbia, Missouri, and throughout Mid-Missouri, we’re seeing this change unfold in real time. Women are launching businesses, leading nonprofits, managing households, and increasingly—managing wealth.
The Rise of Women’s Financial Power
Today, women already oversee over $10 trillion in U.S. household assets—nearly one-third of the total. Bloomberg projects this number could grow to $34 trillion by 2030.
This transformation comes at a time when more women are becoming primary financial decision-makers, whether through career achievements, entrepreneurship, divorce, or widowhood. But while 60% of women take sole responsibility for investment decisions, only 19% feel very confident about their ability to retire comfortably.
This confidence gap reveals an opportunity—and a need—for better support, tailored education, and holistic financial guidance.
Here in Columbia, we work with women every day who are business owners, caregivers, educators, and community leaders. They are balancing it all—career growth, family care, and long-term financial planning.
With Wealth Comes Responsibility—and Opportunity
Women face unique financial considerations, especially around longevity, healthcare costs, and legacy planning. On average, women live about six years longer than men, which means retirement savings must stretch further.
In addition, 66% of caregivers are women, and those caregiving responsibilities can limit earning years and retirement contributions. In fact, women tend to contribute 43% less to retirement accounts than men, according to T. Rowe Price.
But there’s a silver lining: women often approach financial planning with a purpose-driven mindset—focusing on security, values, and long-term stability. That’s not just admirable—it’s strategic.
Key Planning Areas for Women in Columbia and Mid-Missouri
Whether you’re building wealth, inheriting it, or managing a family’s financial legacy, here are five important areas to consider:
1. Longevity Planning
A woman turning 67 today is projected to live to age 88—and many live into their 90s. Your retirement plan needs to support a long, healthy life.
2. Healthcare & Insurance
Healthcare costs in retirement can exceed $175,000 per person, and women typically bear more of this burden. Planning for long-term care is essential.
3. Investing for Growth
Career gaps, caregiving, and part-time work can limit retirement savings. A solid investment strategy helps close the gap and build long-term financial confidence.
4. Legacy Conversations
Many women prioritize supporting family, giving to charity, or investing in their communities. It’s never too early to start planning how you want your wealth to be used.
5. Working With a Trusted Advisor
Financial planning is personal. Partner with an advisor who listens to your story, educates you along the way, and creates a plan that reflects your values.
Final Thoughts: Women Are Not Just Inheriting Wealth—They’re Redefining It
This is more than a trend—it’s a transformation. Women in Columbia and throughout Mid-Missouri are taking ownership of their financial futures, and with thoughtful planning, that shift is empowering entire families and communities.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your financial journey—or help the women in your life do the same—our team is here to help.