2Q 2018 529 Market Sizing Highlights

By Paul Curley, CFA | paul.curley@strategic-i.com | August 30, 2018

What was the 529 market sizing as of 2Q 2018?

June 2018 Quarterly 529 Market Sizing Data
– 13.7 million accounts invested $329 billion in assets in 529 savings and prepaid plans
– 12.6 million accounts invested $305 billion in assets in 529 savings plans
– 1.1 million accounts invested $24 billion in assets in 529 prepaid plans

March 2018 Quarterly 529 Market Sizing Data
– 13.5 million accounts invested $321 billion in assets in 529 savings and prepaid plans
– 12.4 million accounts invested $297 billion in assets in 529 savings plans
– 1.1 million accounts invested $24 billion in assets in 529 prepaid plans

Net Flows (contributions minus withdrawals):
– Estimated 529 savings plan net inflows were $3.8 billion in 2Q 2018 compared to net inflows of $3.4 billion in 2Q 2017 and $3.2 billion in 2Q 2016, which aligns with steady demand for 529s and more parents successfully using 529s for their intended purpose of qualified higher education expenses (tuition, books and room & board).



From an industry asset level and account perspective, 529 saving plans continue to reach year-over-year highs. Therefore investor interest in 529 college savings plans and saving for education in an efficient manner in terms of tax, financial aid and estate planning continues to rise, and especially as part of year-end tax planning and college financial planning.

Top 10 529 Savings Plans by 2Q 2018 Assets

Source: Strategic Insight

Top 5 529 Savings Plan Program Managers by 2Q 2018 Assets

Source: Strategic Insight