Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The middle class refers to a social group that falls between the upper class and the lower class, typically characterized by moderate income, education, and occupation.
Related terms
Social Mobility: The ability to move up or down in social status based on factors such as education, occupation, or income.
Consumerism: A cultural ideology that emphasizes the acquisition and consumption of goods and services as a measure of success and happiness.
Income Inequality: The unequal distribution of wealth among individuals or groups within a society.