It’s a question that has intrigued movie fans for years – just how rich were the McCallister family in the classic film ‘Home Alone’? According to real-world economists consulted by the New York Times, the McCallisters were actually in the top 1% of wealth.
Key Takeaway
The McCallister family in ‘Home Alone’ was estimated by economists to be in the top 1% of wealth, with a household income that would be equivalent to about $665,000 per year in 2022.
Real Estate Research
The New York Times delved into various sources to determine the wealth of the McCallister family. They consulted experts at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and analyzed real estate data to estimate the value of the McCallisters’ home in Chicago. The house, located in the affluent neighborhood of Winnetka, was considered one of the most expensive neighborhoods in America during the late ’80s and early ’90s.
Wealth Estimate
Based on the median incomes of residents in Winnetka during that time, economists estimated the McCallisters’ household income to be around $305,000 per year. Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to about $665,000 per year in 2022.
Professions and Lifestyle
The New York Times used context clues from the movie to speculate on the professions of Kevin McCallister’s parents. They suggested that the mother was a successful fashion designer, while the father was portrayed as a general businessman. This deep dive into the McCallister family’s wealth provides a fascinating perspective on the beloved film.



