Gender Gap in Wealth Control Within Couples: Evidence from China

Jing Liu (), Lijiao Jia () and Xiaohui Zhang ()
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Jing Liu: Minzu University of China
Lijiao Jia: Minzu University of China
Xiaohui Zhang: Minzu University of China

Journal of Family and Economic Issues, 2025, vol. 46, issue 3, No 8, 749-762

Abstract: Abstract Traditional analyses, which assume an even distribution of resources within households, commonly neglect the gender-based wealth accumulation differences that have a substantial impact on individual well-being. This paper examines the gender gap in the control of wealth within Chinese couples aged 45 and above using 2015 CHARLS data. It finds that husbands’ personal net wealth is on average 1.54 times that of wives, with disparities in net financial and housing assets. The wealth gap is narrowed in households where women’s formal or informal employment, non-migration status, higher education and health level. Key factors influencing the wealth gap include education, employment type, and migration status. This study highlights group-specific wealth disparities and key drivers of intra-household inequality, offering planners actionable insights to advance gender equality, improve individual development, family welfare, and foster sustainable economic development.

Keywords: Gender gap; Intra-household wealth gap; Wealth control; Bargaining power (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D13 D31 J14 J16 J71 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10834-025-10053-9

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