Wondering where to land financially? It can be tricky to pin down if you consider yourself middle class, lower class or anything else at all.
Using money alone to define “class” doesn’t always tell the whole story, but it’s a good start. According to Pew Research, income levels and home size play a big role in determining where you may qualify.
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Here’s a list and some real world numbers to help you figure it out.
Lower Class
The lower class is usually defined as families earning less than two-thirds of the median income. For many, this means struggling to pay for basic expenses such as shelter, food and healthcare.
What the Numbers Say:
Amount: Usually less than $50,000 per year for most households.
Specific thresholds for a family of three:
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Nationally: less than $56,600 per year.
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By state: As low as $35,142 in Mississippi.
Symptoms You May Have Here:
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You are living paycheck to paycheck.
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It’s hard to save money for an emergency or retirement.
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Things like medical care, transportation or rent will stretch your budget to the limit.
What’s happening: Warren Buffett Withdraws His Neighbor’s Money $67,000 For $50 Million – This Would Be Worth More Than $500 Million Today.
Middle Class
The middle section is wide and is often described as the money’s “sweet spot.” This group holds a large amount of money, but the key is a sense of stability – even if it doesn’t always feel safe.
What the Numbers Say:
Gross income: Between two-thirds and twice the average income or about $50,000 to $100,000 per year.
Specific thresholds for a family of three:
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Domestic: $56,600 to $169,800.
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By state: In New Jersey, $64,224 to $192,692. In Mississippi, $35,142 to $105,438.
Signs You Are Middle Class:
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You’re paying good bills and giving yourself extra time, like relaxing or eating out.
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Big expenses like college or buying a house are difficult but possible.
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You are saving for the future, but not as much as you would like.
Upper Class
A super team isn’t just about big pay – it’s often tied to things like investments, real estate or business capital. According to the Motley Fool, the upper class has an average value of $795 to $265.
These families tend to earn more than double the median income and experience the greatest change in income.
What the Numbers Say: