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Income level -

Income is often the primary marker of social class, as a higher income generally opens up access to more resources and opportunities. However, cost of living and spending habits also shape how income reflects class status. 

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Income level -

In the US, income thresholds vary by region, but broadly speaking, the upper class typically earns above US$500,000 per year, the middle class ranges from $50,000 to $150,000, and the lower class generally earns below $30,000.

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Higher education -

Higher levels of education often correlate with higher social class, as advanced degrees typically lead to better job prospects and increased cultural capital. 

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Higher education -

Access to quality education can be a significant class marker. Attending prestigious institutions like Ivy League schools frequently signals an upper-class background, while community colleges are generally more accessible to the working class.

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Occupation -

The prestige and stability of one’s job often reflect social class. Positions in professional fields, such as medicine, law, or finance, are typically associated with higher social classes. 

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Occupation -

On the other side, temporary or hourly wage work tends to align with lower classes.

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Wealth and assets -

Wealth, including savings, property, investments, and inheritances, can play a critical role in social class.

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Wealth and assets -

Even if income is moderate, substantial wealth can place someone in a higher class.

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Homeownership -

Owning a home is a traditional indicator of middle or upper-class status, especially if the property is in a desirable location.

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Homeownership -

Renting or relying on government-subsidized housing often correlates with a lower social class.

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Neighborhood and living conditions -

Where you live, from urban centers to suburban neighborhoods or rural areas, can influence perceived social class.

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Neighborhood and living conditions -

Areas with high-quality public services, amenities, and schools are often associated with higher classes.

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Culture -

Cultural interests like attending the opera, reading classic literature, or enjoying fine arts often signal higher social class, though valued activities vary by region. In some countries, traditional crafts or local music hold similar prestige. 

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Culture -

Meanwhile, working-class cultures may prioritize practical skills and hands-on hobbies, reflecting how cultural capital is shaped by societal values and norms.

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Social networks and connections -

The social circles you belong to and the people you know can impact your social class.

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Social networks and connections -

Access to influential networks can open doors for career advancement and social opportunities.

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Political and civic engagement -

Higher social classes are more likely to vote, volunteer, and engage in political or civic organizations.

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Political and civic engagement -

Working-class individuals, on the other hand, may feel less represented or involved in civic life due to time or resource limitations.

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Health and access to healthcare -

Regular access to healthcare and wellness resources is often a privilege of higher classes.

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Health and access to healthcare -

Those in lower classes may lack affordable healthcare, leading to poorer health outcomes.

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Work-life balance and leisure time -

The ability to balance work with leisure activities is a hallmark of higher social classes.

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Work-life balance and leisure time -

Working-class individuals often work longer hours and have less free time.

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Debt level -

Having manageable debt, such as mortgage debt with a good interest rate, is often a characteristic of the middle or upper class. 

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Debt level -

However, struggling with credit card debt and payday loans is more common in lower social classes.

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Education and career aspirations for children -

Higher social classes tend to invest heavily in their children's education and extracurriculars, aiming for prestigious schools and universities. 

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Education and career aspirations for children -

Working-class families may not have as many options, forcing them to focus more on vocational training and practical education.

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Travel and new experiences -

People in higher classes often have the resources to travel, which broadens perspectives and experiences.

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Travel and new experiences -

For many in lower classes, travel may be limited to local areas or even out of reach.

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Personal autonomy and freedom -

Higher social classes generally experience more freedom in their work and personal lives, allowing them to make choices that align with personal values and goals.

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Personal autonomy and freedom -

Those in lower classes often face more restrictions due to financial or job limitations.

Sources: (Gallup) (BBC) (Britannica) 

See also: Things the middle class will struggle to afford in five years

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