The middle class squeeze is real. Even with two good incomes, it's tough for middle class households to afford things their parents could. Here are those 7 things.
A HOUSE
01.
Rising real estate prices in many urban areas have made purchasing a home increasingly difficult for the middle class.
College Degree
02.
The cost of college education, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, has been rising, making it less affordable without substantial loans.
Healthcare
03.
In countries without universal healthcare, medical costs can be a major burden, including insurance premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and prescription medications.
Retirement
04.
Volatile markets and the shift from employer-based pension plans to individual retirement savings have made securing a comfortable retirement more challenging.
Childcare
05.
The cost of childcare has been rising, making it a significant part of family budgets, often necessitating dual incomes.
Emergency Savings
06.
Most middle class families don't have adequate savings to cope with an unexpected expense like a major car repair.
Luxury Goods
07.
Vacations, dining out, entertainment, and “little luxuries” are becoming unaffordable for many in the middle class.
Vacations
08.
With increasing costs of travel and accommodation, taking vacations is becoming a luxury for some in the middle class.