Do You Belong in The Middle Class?
Over the years, people are curious to know what their lifestyle level is and it is very difficult to specifically define this group of people. Some experts consider their lifestyle and their income to be classified as middle class.
Since everyone wants to identify which class they belong to, here are a few ways to measure and characterize what it means to be part of the middle class.
The Fundamentals
Income
There is no single definition of the middle class, it is generally applied to those that fall between the lowest-earning households and the highest-earning households - generally the middle two-thirds of the income spectrum. The most common factor in determining if you’re considered middle class depends on your income.
The middle class can be categorized as two-thirds to two times the national median income for your household size. There are times that people base their annual income per household and on how many people are in this particular household.
Consumption
Another possible way to define the middle class is by understanding how much you and your household spend or consume. There are some expenses to consider in spending some items such as food, transportation, and entertainment . Health care expenses and education is the best way to classify your lifestyle.
Ambition
Your aspirations sometimes will depend on what you have. Others say if you dream big and your hopes are high this can classify you as middle class because this shows your living standard. Putting forth your ambitions, hopes and dreams will give you motivation to strive harder and be classified as middle class.
To everyone who dreams of life’s simple pleasures: a car, homeownership, family vacations, as well as college education and retirement savings. By having these goals in mind and more importantly, working to successfully achieve them, you may be defined as being middle class.
Demographics
Another way to define the middle class is by Combining sociology with economics. Some banks combine this using annual income because they believe that this is something that can alternatively change so drastically over time.
By considering one’s age, education and race, the Bank believes income and wealth accumulation can be somewhat accurately determined. They go on to state that children inherit intangible assets that may affect their ability to access various communication outlets,3 which often help with obtaining jobs and taking advantage of wealth accumulating opportunities.
The Bottom Line
While not necessary, there are some great aspects of understanding if you are in the middle class. These include determining your overall state of happiness and well-being. Are you where you want to be? Do your goals align with the success you hope to achieve? If not, there is no better time than the present to meet with the appropriate advisors and build a plan to live the life you want.
- https://money.cnn.com/infographic/economy/what-is-middle-class-anyway/index.html
- https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/09/06/the-american-middle-class-is-stable-in-size-but-losing-ground-financially-to-upper-income-families/
- https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/brainard20190510a.htm
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.