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Gender Gap in Wealth Control Within Couples: Evidence from China

Author

Listed:
  • Jing Liu

    (Minzu University of China)

  • Lijiao Jia

    (Minzu University of China)

  • Xiaohui Zhang

    (Minzu University of China)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Jing Liu & Lijiao Jia & Xiaohui Zhang, 2025. "Gender Gap in Wealth Control Within Couples: Evidence from China," Journal of Family and Economic Issues, Springer, vol. 46(3), pages 749-762, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jfamec:v:46:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s10834-025-10053-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s10834-025-10053-9
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D13 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Household Production and Intrahouse Allocation
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • J14 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of the Elderly; Economics of the Handicapped; Non-Labor Market Discrimination
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing

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