US Upper Middle Class Surges to Largest Income Group Amid Rising Living Costs

52 articles · Updated · Fortune · Apr 12

New research shows the American upper middle class has become the largest income group, tripling in size since 1979.
About 31% of U.S. households now qualify as upper middle class, driven by rising incomes and increased dual-earner families.
Despite material gains, many Americans feel financially strained due to rising costs in housing, education, and healthcare, affecting perceptions of prosperity.

Beyond income, how does escalating wealth inequality affect subjective financial well-being today?

Is America's shrinking middle class a sign of progress or a symptom of deepening inequality?

How does the AEI's 'upper-middle class' definition translate to real affordability in diverse US cities?

Why do objective economic gains clash so sharply with widespread feelings of financial strain today?

What policy actions could bridge the gap between rising incomes and the increasing cost of essential needs?

Can social media's impact on financial benchmarks be effectively addressed to reduce feelings of deprivation?