Wealth isn’t always evident through flashy cars and designer clothes. In fact, some of the richest people I know are the most unassuming.

They’ve mastered the art of living below their means, making their wealth almost invisible.

This begs the question: how can you tell if someone has a lot of money in their bank account, even if they don’t flaunt it?

Well, let me tell you, there are subtle signs that hint at a person’s financial status. And these indicators are not as materialistic as you might think.

In this article, I’m going to walk you through eight signs that someone has a substantial amount of money stashed away, even if they don’t show it.

And who knows? You may even pick up some habits that could lead to your own financial success.

Sit back, grab a cup of coffee and let’s delve into the not-so-obvious world of wealth.

1) They live below their means

It’s a common assumption that people with significant wealth live extravagant lifestyles. However, this isn’t always the case.

In fact, many wealthy individuals are characterized by their understated habits. They often live well within their means, opting for modest homes and vehicles over flashy displays of wealth.

This is because they understand that accumulating wealth isn’t about how much you earn, but about how much you save.

They prioritize investments and savings over material possessions, ensuring that their money is always working for them.

If you spot someone living a seemingly modest lifestyle despite having a stable and potentially high-paying job, don’t be fooled. They might just have a healthy sum tucked away in their bank account.

Remember, wealth is not always about outward appearances but rather the financial habits one upholds.

2) They value experiences over possessions

This is something I’ve noticed in a few wealthy individuals I’ve had the privilege to know. Rather than splurging on the latest gadgets or designer wear, they invest their money in experiences.

Let me tell you about my friend, Dave. Dave has a six-figure job but lives in a small apartment and drives a decade-old car.

You wouldn’t guess from his lifestyle that he has a lot of money. But here’s the catch: Dave spends his holidays exploring the world.

He’s been to places like the Maldives for snorkeling, Japan for cherry blossom season, and even Antarctica for a glimpse of the elusive emperor penguins.

These experiences, according to him, are priceless – they enrich his life in ways material possessions can’t.

If you notice someone spending more on life experiences rather than tangible goods, it’s quite possible that they have more money in their account than they let on. It’s all about priorities and how they choose to spend their wealth.

3) They have a long-term financial plan

Wealthy individuals often have a clear vision of their financial future. They understand the importance of financial planning and are proactive about setting and achieving their financial goals.

Did you know that according to a study by Wells Fargo, nearly 90% of high-net-worth individuals attribute their financial success to careful planning and budgeting?

They aren’t just focused on their current income or expenditures. Instead, they have a roadmap for their finances – be it for the next five, ten, or even twenty years.

This includes plans for investments, retirement, estate planning, and even wealth transfer.

If someone talks about their detailed financial plan or long-term investment strategies, chances are they have a significant amount stashed away.

It’s a clear sign that they are not just living for today but preparing for their financial future.

4) They don’t fall for lifestyle inflation

It’s human nature to want more as we earn more. This phenomenon, often termed as “lifestyle inflation,” can be a trap that hinders wealth accumulation. However, those with money in their account understand this trap and avoid it.

Instead of upgrading their lifestyle with every pay raise, they maintain their existing standard of living and channel the extra income into savings or investments.

This way, they ensure that their wealth continues to grow, regardless of how much they earn.

If you notice someone who doesn’t seem to change their lifestyle drastically despite apparent career success, it could be a sign they have a significant amount of money stored away.

They’ve likely understood that the key to growing wealth isn’t necessarily earning more but saving and investing more.

5) They prioritize giving back

One of the most beautiful signs of true wealth is generosity. I’ve found that those with a lot of money in their accounts often have a deep sense of social responsibility.

They understand that wealth isn’t merely for personal comfort and luxury, but also a tool to make a difference in the world.

Whether it’s supporting a cause close to their heart, contributing to their preferred charities, or setting up scholarships, they make it a point to give back to society. Their wealth allows them to extend help where it’s needed most.

If you see someone consistently involved in philanthropic activities, don’t be too quick to assume they’re just being charitable. It’s quite possible they have substantial financial resources backing their generous deeds.

After all, true wealth shines brightest when shared with others.

6) They are knowledgeable about financial matters

This is something that I’ve had to learn the hard way. To keep a healthy bank balance, you need to understand the basics of personal finance.

I remember a time when I was clueless about financial matters. I didn’t understand how investments worked, what compound interest meant, or why it was important to diversify my portfolio.

As a result, my savings didn’t grow as much as they could have.

People with a lot of money in their accounts often have a good grasp of financial concepts. They know how to make their money work for them. They understand the importance of investing and the power of compound interest.

If someone can talk confidently about stocks, bonds, real estate investments, and retirement funds, chances are they have a significant amount of money tucked away.

It’s a sign they’re financially savvy and know how to grow their wealth.

7) They don’t stress about bills

We’ve all been there – the end of the month rolls around and with it comes the stress of paying bills. But for those with a lot of money in their account, this isn’t a concern.

They’ve set up a system where their bills are paid automatically and they aren’t living paycheck to paycheck.

Not having to worry about whether they can cover their monthly expenses frees them up to focus on other things – like growing their wealth even more.

If you notice someone who never seems to worry about paying bills on time, or never complains about being short on cash at the end of the month, it could be a sign they have a substantial amount of money saved up.

Their lack of financial stress is a strong indicator of their solid financial standing.

8) They value financial independence over material acquisition

If there’s one thing you should know about people with a lot of money in their account, it’s this: they prioritize financial independence.

They understand that true wealth is not about the things they own, but the freedom to do what they want, when they want.

They don’t get caught up in the rat race of continuously acquiring more. Instead, they focus on growing their wealth and achieving financial security.

Their ultimate goal is to build a life where they are not tied down by financial obligations.

If you meet someone who values freedom and independence over material possessions, they likely have more money in their bank account than they let on.

This mindset is often the defining factor between those who merely look rich and those who are truly wealthy.

Final thought: Wealth is not always what it appears

The perception of wealth is often skewed by materialistic displays. But as we’ve explored in this article, this isn’t always an accurate indicator of a person’s financial standing.

Remember the words of Thomas J. Stanley, author of “The Millionaire Next Door“:

“Many people who live in expensive homes and drive luxury cars do not actually have much wealth. Then, we discovered something even odder: Many people who have a great deal of wealth do not even live in upscale neighborhoods.”

The signs of true wealth often lie in the subtleties: frugal living, prioritizing experiences over possessions, strategic financial planning, resisting lifestyle inflation, generosity, financial literacy, and valuing independence over material acquisition.

Next time you’re trying to gauge someone’s wealth, look beyond the visible. The real signs of wealth are often hidden in plain sight, quietly revealing themselves in habits and values rather than material possessions.

After all, true wealth isn’t about what you show to the world; it’s about what you’ve saved for yourself.