Wealth isn’t always about flashy cars and designer clothes.
In fact, some of the wealthiest people keep their status surprisingly low-key, preferring subtle habits over ostentatious displays.
But if you look closely, there are often clues that hint at a hefty bank balance—from their quiet confidence to the way they handle their finances.
Here are seven signs that someone may be sitting on a significant amount of money, even if they’re not flaunting it.
Let’s dive in.
1) Low-key lifestyle
Just because someone doesn’t flaunt their wealth doesn’t mean they don’t have it. In fact, some of the wealthiest individuals live surprisingly modest lives.
This idea is central to the book The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko, which examines the habits and behaviors of America’s wealthiest people.
Contrary to popular belief, the book reveals that many millionaires avoid flashy displays like luxury cars and designer clothes.
Instead, they invest wisely, live below their means, and prioritize financial security over material possessions.
Those with substantial wealth often understand that true financial freedom isn’t about accumulating expensive items; it’s about the security and options that come with smart financial planning.
Do you know someone who lives comfortably but chooses a low-key lifestyle? Then they may have a lot more in the bank than appearances suggest.
2) They’re not stressed about bills
I remember my friend Mike who had a surprisingly relaxed attitude towards money.
One day, we were out for lunch and when the bill arrived, he casually picked it up without even glancing at the total.
Even more interesting was his calm demeanor when unexpected expenses popped up. A sudden car repair or a medical bill never seemed to throw him off balance.
At first, I thought he was just carefree. But as time passed, I realized it was something else. He wasn’t worried about bills because he had a solid financial cushion in the bank.
So if you notice someone who isn’t stressed about occasional large expenses or doesn’t hesitate when it comes to splitting the bill, chances are they’ve got a healthy bank balance backing them up.
3) They prioritize experiences over things
When you have money, you have the freedom to spend it on what truly matters to you.
For many affluent individuals, this means prioritizing experiences over material possessions.
A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that people who spend money on experiences rather than material goods tend to be happier and feel their money is better spent.
So if you see someone investing more in travel, cultural events, or even simple experiences like dining out with friends or family rather than splurging on the latest gadgets or luxury items, this could be a sign of a robust bank account.
They understand the value of creating memorable experiences and the happiness it brings over temporary satisfaction from material possessions.
4) They have financial advisors
Not everyone who has money has financial advisors, but almost everyone who has a lot of money in the bank does.
Having a financial advisor doesn’t just mean you have money to manage, it means you have enough money to justify paying someone else to manage it for you.
If someone regularly consults with a financial advisor or mentions them in casual conversation, it’s a pretty good sign that they have a significant amount of money in the bank.
These professionals are there to help their clients make the most of their wealth and continue growing it, so if someone has one on their payroll, chances are they’re doing quite well financially.
5) They don’t have a ‘money taboo’
Growing up, I was taught that talking about money was a bit of a taboo.
It was considered rude to ask someone how much they earned or what they paid for their house. This mentality is, however, not common among those with significant wealth.
I’ve noticed that people with money in the bank are often comfortable talking about finances.
They’re open about discussing investments, real estate, and even their financial mistakes. It’s not about bragging; rather, it’s about sharing knowledge and learning from each other.
So if you meet someone who talks openly about money and financial matters without any discomfort, it might be an indication of their sound financial status.
6) They value their time
Time is the one thing that even money can’t buy more of.
Those with a healthy bank balance understand this and often place a high value on their time.
They’re likely to outsource tasks that they could do themselves but choose not to, such as cleaning, lawn work, or even grocery shopping.
This is because they understand that their time can be better spent on things that either make them more money or make them happy.
This respect and value for time is often a sign of financial prosperity.
Recognizing that time is more valuable than money indicates a level of financial comfort and security.
7) They invest wisely
The true sign of a hefty bank balance isn’t just how much one spends, but how they choose to invest.
Those with money understand the power of compound interest and make their money work for them.
They’re likely to have diverse investment portfolios, including stocks, bonds, real estate, and perhaps even some more unconventional investments.
This type of financial strategy not only increases their wealth but also provides a safety net, ensuring their money continues to grow even when they’re not actively working.
It’s this wise and informed approach to investment that truly signifies substantial wealth.
Concluding thoughts: Money isn’t always obvious
When it comes to wealth, appearances can be deceiving.
The person driving a modest car or living in a simple house could have a bank account that far surpasses those flaunting designer labels and luxury cars.
The signs of substantial wealth are often subtle and rooted in behaviors and values, rather than material possessions.
A low-key lifestyle, wise investments, valuing time and experiences over things, comfort in discussing finances – these are the true indications of significant monetary assets.
In the end, having money isn’t about showing it off. It’s about the freedom it provides – the freedom to live comfortably, to make choices without financial stress, and to invest in what truly matters.
So the next time you’re trying to gauge someone’s wealth, look beyond the surface. The real signs of money are often hidden in plain sight.
