4 surprising signs you’re no longer ‘middle class’ in America. How many apply to you?

Investment Opportunities - A gold IRA allows investment in physical gold and other precious metals while providing tax advantages associated with IRAs [2] - Self-directed gold IRAs are a common method for individuals looking to diversify their retirement investments with gold [2] - Real estate investments, such as shares in vacation homes or rental properties, can provide regular income and diversification for investors [10][11] Income and Class Distinctions - The average 401(k) participant contributed 7.7% of their salary to their retirement account in 2024, indicating a struggle for many middle-class workers to save adequately for retirement [3] - The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported median weekly earnings for full-time U.S. workers at $1,214 in Q3 2025, translating to an annual wage of $63,128 [5] - Pew Research Center defines middle class as having an income between two-thirds and double the national median income, highlighting the income thresholds for class distinctions [5] Tax Strategies - High-income individuals often engage in tax-reducing strategies, such as maximizing retirement plan contributions and increasing charitable donations, indicating a financial status beyond middle class [15][16] Debt Management - A significant indicator of surpassing middle-class status is having only a mortgage as debt, contrasting with many middle-income households that carry additional debt [17][18]