中国中产的坑，美国二十年前已经踩过一遍了

Group 1 - The article discusses the financial struggles of middle-class families in America, particularly focusing on the impact of raising children on their economic stability [7][40]. - It highlights that the increase in housing costs, education expenses, and healthcare has significantly strained middle-class finances, with housing expenditure rising from 11% to 32% of income from the 1970s to 2000s [13][40]. - The narrative illustrates how the pursuit of better education for children has led to increased financial burdens, with many families feeling compelled to invest heavily in preschool and higher education [10][21]. Group 2 - The article emphasizes that the belief in the necessity of a college degree has become a new societal norm, with 97% of Americans considering it essential or helpful [14][15]. - It points out that the costs associated with higher education have skyrocketed, with families often needing to take on significant debt to afford tuition, leading to a reliance on student loans [21][20]. - The financial pressure is compounded by the need for families to purchase larger vehicles for safety, resulting in an additional annual expenditure of $4,000 [31]. Group 3 - The article notes that dual-income households, while appearing to increase financial resources, often lead to greater financial vulnerability due to rising living costs and child-rearing expenses [32][33]. - It details the various costs associated with raising children, including daycare, health insurance, and housing, which collectively diminish disposable income [39]. - The overall conclusion suggests that middle-class families are not overspending but rather are caught in a cycle of financial strain due to the high costs of essential services and education [40][41].