Core Insights - New research indicates that even high-income households, specifically those earning $200,000 or more, experience significant financial anxiety, leading them to avoid checking their banking apps due to stress [2][4]. Group 1: Financial Anxiety Among High Earners - 40% of six-figure earners avoid checking their account balances to reduce stress, with this figure rising to 42% for those earning $200,000 or more [2][4]. - Nearly half of high-income earners report struggling with financial anxiety, feeling guilty about their financial complaints due to their higher income compared to most [2][4]. Group 2: Perception of Wealth - A significant 64% of six-figure earners view their income as "survival mode" rather than a sign of wealth, and 52% believe the American Dream is unattainable at their income level [5]. - About one in three high-income individuals describe themselves as financially distressed, indicating feelings of being stretched or struggling with finances [5]. Group 3: Spending Challenges - High-income earners are primarily spending on essential categories such as groceries (36%), rent or mortgage (32%), and health insurance or medical costs (31%), rather than luxury items [6]. - More than half of six-figure earners categorize regular expenses like vacations, new cars, and dining out as financial "pressure zones," indicating a shift in what is considered middle-class life [7].