In a dramatic shift that rewrites the map of global affluence, a picturesque British waterfront community has spectacularly dethroned the long-reigning champion of luxury, Beverly Hills, to be crowned America's richest postcode.
The unassuming yet extraordinarily wealthy enclave of Alderley Edge, with its postcode SK9 7, has achieved what few thought possible—surpassing the legendary 90210 with an eye-watering average household income of £1.04 million ($1.33 million). This represents a staggering 42% increase from the previous year, propelling it to the pinnacle of the Forbes annual ranking.
The New Epicentre of Extraordinary Wealth
For decades, the Beverly Hills postcode has been synonymous with unparalleled luxury and celebrity wealth. Its displacement marks a significant moment in the geography of extreme affluence. The data, meticulously compiled by Forbes using IRS records and their own research, reveals that Alderley Edge isn't just rich; it's in a financial league of its own.
The community's rise is attributed to a potent combination of factors: its status as a commuter haven for the North West's business elite, breathtaking waterfront properties, and an exclusive, village-like atmosphere that offers both privacy and prestige.
Beyond the Golden Gates of 90210
While Beverly Hills remains an icon of opulence, its average household income of £773,000 ($986,000) was simply no match for the concentrated wealth found in this UK hotspot. The ranking, which analyses the mean taxable income of residents, highlights a broader trend of wealth consolidation in specific, often less conspicuous, locales outside traditional hubs.
This victory for Alderley Edge underscores a shifting landscape where old-world charm and modern business fortunes create new centres of financial power, challenging the long-held dominance of classic American wealth destinations.
