Have you ever wondered where you fit in the social ladder? It’s not always easy to pinpoint, especially when it comes to the upper middle class. This group often flies under the radar. It is not quite as flashy as the rich, but it is definitely more comfortable than the average Joe.
In this post, I will walk you through 20 signs that might show you’re part of this group.
Vacations are a given
You plan vacations every year without much worry or hesitation. These aren’t just quick trips to nearby cities but often involve flying to other countries or states to explore new destinations. You might choose to stay at nice hotels or resorts rather than the cheapest options available, as you see vacation time as a necessary part of your lifestyle rather than just a luxury. Budgeting for regular trips is simply a normal part of your financial planning.
Brand names in your closet
Your wardrobe contains a mix of everyday clothes and some select designer items that you’ve chosen to invest in. While you don’t shop exclusively at high-end stores, you don’t hesitate to occasionally splurge on a nice piece that you know will last. Quality and durability are important to you, and you’re willing to pay a bit more for clothing and accessories that you can wear for years. You might even have a few luxury items like a designer handbag or watch that you’re proud to own.
Eating out is normal
Going to restaurants on a regular basis is not seen as a rare treat but rather a normal part of your lifestyle. You don’t always choose the fanciest or most expensive places, but enjoy good food and don’t mind paying for the experience. You might even have a favorite local spot where the staff knows you and your usual order. Cooking at home is still common, but it’s often done by choice rather than out of necessity.
Your kids do extracurriculars
If you have children, they’re likely involved in a variety of after-school activities, such as sports, music lessons, dance classes, or academic clubs. You see these extracurricular pursuits as important investments in your kids’ development and are happy to pay for them. You might even go so far as to hire private tutors or coaches to help your children excel in their areas of interest.
You have a cleaning service
Your home gets professionally cleaned regularly, whether that’s weekly or every couple of weeks. You see this as a way to save time and reduce stress in your busy life, even if you feel guilty about not cleaning yourself. It’s not that you can’t clean your own home, but you’d rather spend your free time on other activities that are important to you.
Car choices are practical and nice
When it comes to your vehicle, you tend to opt for something that is both reliable and relatively new but not necessarily the most luxurious or expensive model. You might drive a mid-range or entry-level luxury brand that provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. In making your car purchase decisions, you consider both practical needs and personal comfort, knowing you can afford the car payments without significant financial stress. Your household might even have more than one vehicle.
Home ownership is a reality
You either own your own home or are well on your way to doing so. Your house is likely located in a good neighborhood with decent schools nearby, and while it may not be a mansion, it is comfortable and well-maintained. You might have a mortgage, but it’s not a financial burden that keeps you up at night. Homeownership is an important milestone that you’ve achieved.
Retirement savings are a priority
You think about the future and consciously try to save for your retirement. You likely have an RRSP, TFSA, 401(k) or IRA, and you try to maximize your contributions to these accounts. Retirement isn’t just a distant dream for you but something you actively plan and prepare for. You might even work with a financial advisor to help manage your investments and ensure you’re on track.
Health insurance isn’t a worry
You have good health insurance coverage, most likely through your employer. Doctor visits, prescriptions, and other medical expenses don’t cause significant financial stress for you. You might even have additional coverage, such as dental and vision plans, which you see as important investments in your overall well-being. Accessing quality healthcare is a priority, and you don’t put off necessary medical care due to cost concerns.
College is expected
If you have children, you’ve likely already started saving for their future education, whether through a RESP, 529 plan or other investment vehicles. The idea of your kids attending college is an expectation, not just a dream. While you might be concerned about the potential for student debt, it’s not a terrifying prospect, as you value the importance of higher education and see it as a path to success for your children.
Shopping at Target feels budget-friendly
Stores like Target or Kohl’s feel like the more budget-friendly option for you, even though they are not the absolute cheapest. You shop at these stores for everyday items, but you don’t think twice about making purchases there, as you feel like you’re saving money compared to more expensive retailers. These mid-range stores provide a comfortable and familiar shopping experience for your household.
Gym membership or home equipment
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to you, and you’re willing to invest in it. You might have a membership at a nice gym or have exercise equipment set up in your home. Working out is not just about physical health, but also part of your overall lifestyle and self-care routine. You might even treat yourself to the occasional fitness class or personal training session to help you reach your goals.
Regular haircuts and grooming
You make it a priority to get your hair cut and styled on a regular basis, not just when it gets too long. This might include coloring, spa treatments, or other grooming services that help you maintain a well-kept appearance. Looking polished and put-together is important to you, and you budget for these expenses as part of your regular self-care routine. You likely have a trusted stylist or barber that you see regularly.
Hobbies that cost money
Your free time often involves hobbies and activities that require a financial investment, such as golf, skiing, photography, or collecting. You see these hobbies as important for your personal happiness and fulfillment, and you don’t mind spending money on them. You might even plan trips or vacations around your favorite hobby-related activities.
A stocked fridge and pantry
Your kitchen is always well-stocked with a variety of food items, including fresh produce and name-brand products. Running low on something doesn’t mean waiting until the next payday to restock; you can easily make a quick trip to the grocery store to replenish your supplies. You might even buy organic or specialty foods without much thought, as you prioritize having a well-rounded selection of high-quality ingredients in your home.
Tech upgrades are regular
Keeping up with the latest technology is important to you, and you regularly replace your phones, laptops, and other devices. While you might not always have the latest model, you ensure your tech is current and functioning well. When something breaks or needs to be replaced, you can do so without significant financial stress, as you see technology as a necessary part of your modern lifestyle.
Gifts aren’t a budget-buster
Buying gifts for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions is not a significant financial burden for you. You can afford to be generous with your family and friends, and you might even enjoy the process of finding the perfect gift, regardless of its price. Gift-giving is a way to express your care and appreciation for the important people in your life.
Subscription services add up
You have multiple subscription services for entertainment and convenience, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, meal delivery kits, or wine clubs. While these monthly costs can add up, you see them as normal parts of your lifestyle and don’t often consider canceling them to save money. These subscription services provide you with enjoyment, variety, and a sense of comfort in your daily life.
Your job comes with perks
Your career likely includes benefits and perks beyond just a salary, such as bonuses, stock options, or other financial incentives. You might also have some flexibility in your work hours or location, and your job title might carry a certain level of prestige. You feel relatively secure in your position and see your career as an important part of your overall upper-middle-class lifestyle.
Savings for a rainy day
You have an emergency fund set aside to cover unexpected expenses, and it’s not just a few hundred dollars, but enough to cover several months of your living costs. Having this financial safety net helps you feel secure and able to handle surprises without significant stress. You don’t panic at the thought of a sudden car repair or medical bill, as you know you have the resources to handle such situations.
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