“Middle class” means
a lot of things in America, in social, economic and political terms.
A strange thing is
that lots of people think of themselves as “middle class” even though their
financial circumstances place them outside that politically-charged category.
It’s not so strange
to take note of this new report from the Pew Research Center that says, simply,
the “middle class” no longer includes a majority of Americans.
About 45 years ago
the “middle class” constituted 61% of adults, and now their share is a bit less
than 50%.
 |
| Middle class house, 45 years ago |
The “upper class”
has become a lot richer in that time, and trickle-down poverty has put a lot
more folks in the “lower class” group.
The “uppers” are 21%
of the adult population and they collect almost 50% of all household income.
The ‘middles” are 49.9% of the population, with about 43% of income, and the “lowers”
are 29% of adults with only 7% of all income.
You think you’re “middle
class”?
If you live in a
three-person household and your family income is at least $41,900, you’re in.
If your family income is at least $125,600, you can claim “upper class” status.
If you live alone,
the numbers are $24,200 and $72,500. For two people, $34,200 and $102,600.
Umm, that’s before
taxes.
Copyright ©
Richard Carl Subber 2015 All rights reserved.
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