Curious about your socioeconomic standing? This is a common concern, particularly for those trying to get ahead financially.
The upper middle class signifies a notable socioeconomic group. It's characterized by financial security, access to advancement opportunities, and a lifestyle distinct from other societal segments.
Here are 12 indicators that you might be part of the upper middle class.
Steal this billionaire wealth-building technique
The ultra-rich have also been investing in art from big names like Picasso and Bansky for centuries. And it's for a good reason: Contemporary art prices have outpaced the S&P 500 by 136% over the last 27 years.
A new company called Masterworks is now allowing everyday investors to get in on this type of previously-exclusive investment. You can buy a small slice of $1-$30 million paintings from iconic artists, all without needing any art expertise.
If you have at least $10k to invest and are ready to explore diversifying beyond stocks and bonds,see what Masterworks has on offer. (Hurry, they often sell out!)
You have multiple income streams
Wealthier people generally have two or more sources of income. These can include rental properties, dividend-paying investments, royalties, and side businesses.
If you strategically develop various revenue streams to make extra money, you’re minimizing dependency on any single source of income and maximizing your overall financial health.
Want to learn how to build wealth like the 1%? Sign up for Worthy to get ideas and advice delivered to your inbox.
You don’t worry about the cost of kids
One of the most expensive parts of having kids is the cost of child care. The average American spends about 24% of their household income on the cost of child care.
If child care is less than a quarter of your income and you can provide your children with enriching experiences (private tutoring, music lessons, extracurricular activities, etc.), you’ve transitioned from middle to upper middle class.
You max out your retirement accounts
If you’re diligently contributing the maximum allowable amount to your retirement accounts, including catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and older, you’ve entered the upper middle class.
By taking advantage of these additional contributions, you can accelerate the growth of your retirement savings, fortifying your financial security and ensuring a comfortable retirement lifestyle.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 46% before fees, or 25% including our fees, over 12 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating.</p>
How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.
You invest in different asset classes
By allocating your resources strategically among investments such as commodities, real estate, stocks, and alternative assets, you can effectively spread risk and capitalize on opportunities for growth across multiple markets.
This prudent approach to asset allocation not only safeguards your wealth against market volatility but can also maximize your returns, ensuring long-term financial prosperity and stability.
You hire professional help with your finances
Understanding the complexities of wealth management, the upper middle class usually seeks the expertise of financial professionals to navigate intricate financial landscapes effectively.
Only about 35% of Americans consult a financial professional. However, consulting with an expert can help increase your finances. If you can pay for a financial professional, consider yourself at least upper middle class.
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You have a maid or house cleaners
By outsourcing tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and maintenance, you can free up valuable time to focus on career advancement, personal pursuits, and quality time with family and loved ones.
This delegation not only enhances overall well-being and productivity but also contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities and supporting domestic service industries.
You take at least a couple of vacations a year
Regular vacations are a means of relaxation, cultural enrichment, and family bonding. However, vacations don't come cheap — the average vacation for a family of four costs about $7,936. If you can afford at least two per year, consider yourself upper middle class.
Whether it's a weekend getaway to a nearby destination or an elaborate international trip, allocating time and resources to explore new places, experience diverse cultures, and create lasting memories with loved ones provides a wealth of experiences.
You own your home
Homeownership serves as a cornerstone of financial stability and wealth accumulation for the upper middle class, offering a place to live and a valuable asset with long-term appreciation potential.
Owning a home nowadays signifies that you’re part of the upper middle class. This investment in real estate provides a sense of security and permanence and serves as a hedge against inflation and a source of equity for future financial endeavors.
You have a robust savings and investment portfolio
It’s smart to have a significant savings and investment portfolio. If you have a lot of extra money each month to save or invest to grow your net worth, consider yourself upper middle class.
By strategically allocating resources across various asset classes, you can mitigate risk, enhance portfolio performance, and position yourself for continued wealth accumulation and financial success.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2 <p>See website for details.</p>
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
You prioritize education
Investing in education goes beyond funding private schools or college tuition for the upper middle class — it encompasses a lifelong commitment to learning, skill development, and intellectual enrichment.
Whether pursuing advanced degrees, attending professional development seminars, or investing in continuing education courses, prioritizing personal growth and knowledge acquisition signifies you've entered the upper middle class.
You dine out regularly
If you can regularly indulge in fine dining at upscale restaurants, casual outings with friends, or cultural and culinary experiences, you've probably reached the upper middle class.
This frequent dining habit reflects an affluent lifestyle, appreciation for culinary arts, and commitment to enjoying life's amenities to the fullest.
You have a high level of financial literacy
Whether it's analyzing investment opportunities, optimizing tax strategies, or planning for retirement, staying informed and engaged in financial matters to achieve long-term objectives signifies the upper middle class.
This commitment to financial literacy can boost your wealth and foster a sense of control, independence, and security over your financial future.
Bottom line
Analyze your spending habits and lifestyle to see if they align with your financial goals. Do you want to achieve the financial security and comfort often associated with the upper middle class?
This is your chance to assess your priorities and aspirations. Remember, you can always work towards securing your financial future and improving your situation.
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