中产「大逃杀」，正在席卷全球

Core Insights - The article highlights the precarious situation of the American middle class, illustrating how a single event such as job loss, illness, or mortgage default can lead to homelessness, emphasizing the fragility of their financial stability [1][18][45]. Group 1: Economic Vulnerability - Approximately 770,000 people in the U.S. are expected to be homeless in 2024, many of whom were once middle-class workers [1]. - About 80% of Americans could face financial crises due to a single medical emergency, as only 21% of households have over $5,000 in savings [4][5]. - Medical expenses, even for minor issues, can lead to significant debt, with emergency consultations costing hundreds of dollars and surgeries potentially leading to thousands in out-of-pocket costs [7][9]. Group 2: Housing and Living Costs - The median price for single-family homes in the U.S. is projected to be around $460,000 by 2025, with prices in high-cost areas exceeding $700,000 [12]. - A typical American family needs an annual income of about $120,000 to afford median housing costs, which can consume 30-40% of their income [15][20]. - Living in middle-class neighborhoods incurs higher costs, with rents and property taxes significantly elevated compared to ordinary areas [13][18]. Group 3: Employment and Income Stability - As of October 2025, nearly 1.17 million layoffs have been announced, a 54% increase from the previous year, particularly affecting government and tech sectors [21]. - Unemployment leads to an inability to pay mortgages, resulting in credit collapse and further job loss, creating a vicious cycle [22][25]. - Even unemployment benefits are insufficient to cover the basic annual needs of a family, which can reach $140,000 [23]. Group 4: Debt and Financial Management - Many middle-class Americans struggle with student loan debt, which can take decades to repay, hindering their ability to save [26][29]. - The average monthly salary is around $5,183, but many face high monthly student loan payments that complicate financial stability [26]. - A significant portion of Americans cannot access emergency funds, with about 37% unable to cover an unexpected expense of $400 [32]. Group 5: Global Context - The concept of the "killing line" reflects a broader trend of middle-class decline globally, with similar financial pressures observed in countries like South Korea and China [49][48]. - The article suggests that the middle class worldwide is experiencing stagnation, rising living costs, and increasing debt burdens, leading to a potential retreat from the middle class [49][50].