The unique attributes of the upper middle class can be endlessly explored. If you have ever wondered what these signs look like in the real world, here are 18 indicators that you belong to the upper middle class.
Advanced Educational Backgrounds
If you’re upper middle class, you are most likely to have at least one-degree certification from one of the world’s most prestigious universities and have continued your pursuit of further education ever since. You are also probably a member of the alumni group for one of these institutions.
Focus on Health and Wellness
According to Urban Institute, ‘income and wealth directly support better health because wealthier people can afford the resources to protect and improve health.’ This means that upper-middle-class people attend regular health check-ups, have access to personal trainers, and can invest in their mental health through wellness retreats.
Home Ownership
You aren’t just any homeowner; you live in a very desirable neighborhood within proximity to the top-rated schools and exclusive facilities that allow you to join a community when participating in recreational activities. You may even have invested in a second home in another city or own a getaway location for your luxurious holidays.
Career in High-Earning Industries
Do you have a role in fields such as medicine, law, or finance? If you answered yes, then you are probably part of the upper middle class, particularly if you are high up in the ranks as a manager or executive. These types of jobs usually offer a high level of security and a vast list of benefits.
Luxurious and Comfortable Lifestyle
One of the most outwardly obvious signs of wealth is your quality of life, which is often associated with a person’s material possessions. If you frequently dine at five-star restaurants, can afford the latest cars and technology, and frequently jet off to exotic holiday destinations, you’re one of the lucky ones.
Influential Social Circle
If you only associate yourself with those from the upper middle class, this is a tell-tale sign that you are also within a similar tax bracket. You may often attend or even host exclusive events and parties, have an active participation in community or charity events, and are a part of high-profile social networks.
Travel and Leisure Habits
A survey reported by Newsweek suggests that across all generations living in the U.S., most agreed that taking a vacation abroad once per year is ‘within reach of only the wealthiest.’ The upper middle classes can be seen staying at five-star hotels or all-inclusive resorts, owning holiday homes, and having at least one experience on a luxury cruise.
Quality Education for Children
When you’re both part of the upper middle class and a parent, your offspring are enrolled in top-tier educational institutions that will help to set them up for their future. The youth have access to private tutoring and exclusive extracurricular programs and most likely already have reasonably abundant trusts or savings accounts.
Preference for Premium Brands
A love for the finer things in life is not limited to the regular purchase of designer clothing and accessories. It can also manifest in investing in unique art and collectible objects and a certain loyalty to bespoke lifestyle services such as tailoring and dry cleaning.
Financial Security and Independence
Those in the upper middle class rarely need to worry about money because they usually tend to have substantial savings put away for a rainy day or for their long-term plan of early retirement. They lack concern for their regular everyday expenses and can easily make large purchases without accumulating a strain on their finances.
Philanthropic Engagement
Oh, to be wealthy and generous at the same time. Do you frequently donate to charities? Are you often involved in fundraising events and boards for causes that mean a lot to you? If so, this is a sure sign that you’re an upper-middle-class individual with support for global humanitarian efforts, which is great!
Culinary Interests
Everyone loves the feeling of indulging in a delicious meal with high-quality ingredients, and the wealthy are no exception, regularly dining at a diverse range of Michelin-star establishments and dabbling in wine clubs. The British Sociological Association reports the findings of Dr Paddock as they write ‘people of higher socio-economic status consume a greater range of ethnic cuisine.’
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
The upper middle class often practices a sustainable life, owning environmentally friendly products and supporting businesses that have proven commitments to fair trade and ethical practices. In their home environment, they are likely to implement effective recycling and waste management to ensure that they are doing their bit.
Customized Insurance and Protection Plans
It’s always important to protect your assets, especially your health, life, and property. People with a certain amount of wealth will have good relationships with insurance advisors who create customized insurance plans for their valuables, international travel, and larger assets.
Community Leadership and Influence
The upper middle class is usually very well-known for its influence within its community. It tends to have some form of leadership role on various local boards or councils, and when sponsorship is needed for any local event or sports team, it is usually the ones who step up.
Investment Portfolios
If you are someone who has a range of investments that cover everything from stocks and bonds to mutual funds, you are probably of the upper middle class. You may also be a landlord, owning several rental properties or real estate investments that increase the flow of a nice, steady income.
Advanced Technology and Home Automation
Wealthy homes require extensive maintenance and protection, and smart home technology plays a significant role. The upper middle class does not shy away from the latest electronics and efficient systems, including high-speed internet connection, top-tier home entertainment, and highly effective security systems.
Access to Exclusive Venues
There are all over the world establishments that cater only to those who have acquired a high amount of wealth. New Trader U explains that cultural and social activities are essential parts of the lifestyle that comes with being upper middle class, but rather than merely being leisurely, they are ‘opportunities for networking and reinforcing social status.’
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