Core Insights - 61% of American households are classified as middle-class, with income ranging from $56,600 to $169,800 [1] Group 1: Cost of Living and Economic Factors - The ability to maintain a middle-class lifestyle varies by geographic region due to differences in cost of living, tax policies, homeownership rates, and average household income [2] - Average cost of living for a family of four is sourced from Livingcost.org, while average rent data comes from RentCafe [2] Group 2: States Favorable for Middle-Class Living - Florida and Texas are highlighted for their lack of state income tax and moderate to low cost of living, making them attractive for maintaining a middle-class lifestyle [5][6] - Texas has an average home value of $298,906, allowing residents to purchase homes in rural areas and retain more of their income [7] - Tennessee features a robust economy with a homeownership rate of 68.9%, higher than the national average of 65.7% [11]