Which economic measure is least equally distributed among income groups in the United States?

Total net wealth is the measure that is least equally distributed among income groups in the United States. This is primarily because wealth accumulation is significantly affected by factors such as inheritance, investment opportunities, and the ability to save, which vary greatly across different income levels. High-income individuals often have greater access to high-yield investment opportunities and the resources to accumulate assets over time. Additionally, the compounding nature of wealth means that those who already possess wealth can generate more wealth at a much faster rate than those who do not, leading to increasing disparities.

On the other hand, while income also exhibits inequality, it tends to be more evenly distributed than wealth. For instance, wages and salaries are determined by employment factors such as education, experience, and market demand, which while inequitable are subject to policies like minimum wage laws and varied job opportunities. Consumption expenditure reflects spending habits, but since it is often tied to income, it is more consistent across various income groups for certain basic necessities. Education levels can exhibit inequality, yet they tend to normalize somewhat over time as access to education expands and is the focus of various policy initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field.

Thus, total net wealth stands out as the metric with the significant concentration among higher-income earners,