In our quest to find the top U.S. total stock market index funds, we looked for funds that offered a diverse range of large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks in their portfolios. We also considered sustainable funds in response to the growing interest in ESG investing. Notably, we did not include S&P 500 index funds in our initial search due to their limited exposure to mid- and small-cap stocks.
After screening 71 index funds, we narrowed down our selection to the seven total stock market index funds with the lowest fees. Research has shown that lower fees are often linked to higher returns, making them an important factor to consider when choosing an investment.
Our final list of the best U.S. total stock market index funds provides a variety of options to suit different preferences. Some funds have exceptionally low fees, while others cater to ESG investors. Additionally, certain funds focus more on large-cap stocks, while others lean towards smaller companies.
When selecting a fund, it’s beneficial to see if any of our recommendations are available through your employer’s retirement plan. If not, consider holding them in an individual retirement account or a taxable account for potential long-term growth.
For more insight into how we rate and review investment products, take a look at our guide on how Forbes Advisor evaluates investing options. At DailyBubble, we believe in providing readers with valuable information to help them make informed decisions about their investments.