Living Like the McCallisters: The Cost of a 'Home Alone' Lifestyle Today

The classic Christmas movie "Home Alone" has captivated audiences for decades with its tale of an 8-year-old boy left behind by his family during their holiday vacation. While the film is a beloved comedy, it also raises questions about the financial status of the McCallister family. In today's world, what would it cost to live like the McCallisters?

The McCallister family home in Winnetka, Illinois, is a five-bedroom, six-bathroom house that was listed for $5.25 million in 2024. To afford this home, one would need an annual income of approximately $100,000, assuming a 33% housing cost threshold. This places the McCallisters in the top 1% of earners in the U.S. (Source: Number 1). In comparison, the median home value in Winnetka is around $1.2 million, indicating that the McCallister home is significantly more expensive than the average home in the area. However, it is not the most expensive home in the neighborhood, with some homes valued at over $10 million.



The McCallister family's estimated annual income of $305,000 in 1990 ($665,000 in 2022) places them in the top 1% of earners in Winnetka, Illinois. In 2022, the median household income in Winnetka was $211,500, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This indicates that the McCallister family's income is significantly higher than the average household income in their neighborhood.



In the movie, the McCallister family orders 10 pizzas on the eve of their trip, lives in a house that can sleep 15 people, and all fly to Paris for the Christmas holiday. According to financial advisors, the cost of such a lifestyle today would be substantial. The family's Paris vacation alone would cost around $65,650 in today's dollars, including flights and accommodations.



The McCallister family's lifestyle may not be as lavish as it seems, according to financial advisors. While they appear to have a high income and live in an expensive home, they may not have much equity in their house. The family is also frugal when it comes to things people don't see, such as not wasting milk before they leave on vacation.

Financial advisors suggest that the McCallister family could benefit from proper insurance coverage, including life and disability insurance, to ensure their dependents are provided for in case of their passing or inability to work. Additionally, an umbrella insurance policy would be wise to protect against potential liabilities from injuries or damages that occur in their home.

In conclusion, living like the McCallister family today would require a significant income and careful financial planning. While their lifestyle may appear lavish, it is essential to consider the underlying financial aspects and ensure proper insurance coverage. As financial advisors, it is our responsibility to educate clients on the importance of financial planning and provide them with the necessary tools and guidance to develop a comprehensive plan that meets their unique needs and goals.